MG will be launching the eZS electric SUV in December this year and it could be followed by an affordable EV in the near future
MG Motor has devised a top-down approach for the Indian market and is planning to launch five new products within the space of the next two years. The British manufacturer is keen on making a name for its brand before targetting volumes and has defined a road map spanning a decade.
The SAIC owned brand is focussing on making a positive impact with the Hector premium SUV that comes with several segment first features and is technologically advanced than some of its rivals. Rajeev Chaba, Managing Director of MG Motor India recently told that before this year-end, the company would finalise plans on manufacturing expansion for phase 2.
He acknowledged the need to target high volume segments to stay competitive in India and that challenging mass-market leaders Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai should happen in three year’s time. MG has so far invested Rs. 2,300 crore in the ex-GM plant located in Halol, Gujarat and will further cash in Rs. 2,800 crore in the second phase of its operation.
The first phase primarily targets at getting the basics right over a period of three years. Custom satisfaction and availing low cost of ownership are part of building a strong base in India for future growth. Phase 2 will indeed concentrate on stepping foot into volume-based segments while the production capacity will subsequently be expanded based on requirements concurrently.
While the Hector will go on sale later this month with the brand having 120 touch points at its disposal across the country, the second vehicle for India has already been teased and it is the eZS. The electric SUV will be introduced this December and the seven-seater version of the Hector is also on the cards for early 2020.
MG rides high on the electric mobility expertise of its parental brand SAIC globally and Rajeev Chaba has further said that if MG wants to have a “meaningful EV penetration”, the company’s second zero-emission vehicle should cost less than Rs. 10 lakh. Don’t be surprised if MG pulls it off, as EVs are crucial for future profitability of any brand with high localisation.