MG Motor India To Launch Cloud EV In September, Expands Electric Vehicle Line-Up

Published: Monday, June 17, 2024, 11:15 [IST]

The new MG Cloud EV is due to launch in India in the second week of September. This marks MG Motor India's third electric vehicle offering in the country.

The Cloud EV has been spotted testing multiple times, with patent images recently surfacing. The car boasts a crossover design, featuring a large front, LED light package, flush door handles, and a flowing roofline.

The Cloud EV measures 4.3 metres in length and has a wheelbase of 2.7 meters. Its feature list includes 360-degree cameras, dual digital screens, climate control, connected car technology, level 2 ADAS, powered seats, and a sunroof. Expected to be offered with a 50.6kWh powertrain, the electric motor will likely provide a range of up to 460km depending on the variant.

This EV is anticipated to be MG's most premium model yet, with a projected price range of Rs 25-28 lakh. It will directly compete with the BYD e6. The vehicle aims to attract the chauffeur-driven market with its unique features and styling.

Strategic Positioning and Competitive Pricing

The Cloud EV will sit below the MG ZS EV in MG's lineup and is built on a born-EV platform. The launch comes after a fresh fund infusion from the JSW Group, which will support MG Motor India's strategy to introduce a new vehicle every three to six months starting from the second half of 2024. The focus will be on electric and electrified vehicles.

In Indonesia, the Cloud EV is sold under the Wuling brand name by parent company SAIC, while in China, it is known as the Baojun Yunduo. In India, it will be rebadged as an MG.

Unique Design and Interior Features

The Cloud EV stands out with its unique styling, resembling a mix between a large hatchback and an MPV. It features minimalistic design elements such as flush door handles, clean surfacing, and full-width LED light bars at the front and rear. The stepped front-end design with headlamps mounted on the bumper adds to its distinct look.

Inside, the Cloud EV continues the minimalistic theme with a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and fully reclining front seats. It also features a 360-degree camera as part of its ADAS suite. The front seat backrest can be fully reclined for "sofa mode" with a 135-degree recline angle.

Battery Options and Market Position

Internationally, the Cloud EV is available with two battery pack options: a 37.9kWh pack offering a 360km range, and a 50.6kWh pack offering a 460km range. It is powered by a front-axle mounted, permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 134hp. It remains to be seen which versions will be available in India.

DriveSpark Thinks

The Cloud EV is smaller than traditional MPVs like the Maruti Ertiga and Kia Carens but will be the only all-electric model in its class until the Kia Carens EV arrives in 2025.

Despite its small stature, it promises a spacious and comfortable interior with modern features and technology, appealing to eco-conscious drivers looking for a practical and efficient vehicle.