2024 MG Cyberster EV: What We Know So Far About The Roadster

The 2024 MG Cyberster EV Roadster isn't exactly one of the industry's kept secrets thanks to numerous leaks. But what do we know so far about it?

Reviving the heritage of MG's roadster lineage, the brand makes a remarkable comeback with the all-new 2024 MG Cyberster, a captivating all-electric convertible.

After nearly three decades since the unveiling of MG's last two-seat convertible and sixty years since the iconic MGB roadster made its debut, the arrival of a new MG sports car has been highly anticipated. Say hello to the MG Cyberster, a groundbreaking electric roadster that will take the spotlight for many years to come.

One of the most exciting aspects of the MG Cyberster is its all-electric powertrain, setting it apart from its competitors. While potential rivals like the Tesla Roadster, Porsche Boxster EV, and Fisker Ronin are yet to hit the market, the famous British brand, now under China's SAIC ownership, has managed to take the lead in the electric roadster segment.

What's even more impressive is that the MG Cyberster aims to undercut the competition significantly, with an enticing starting price of around £50,000 for the standard model. Although this might seem particularly high for a small car, the competitors will be significantly more expensive in the same segment. 

The Tesla Roadster, Porsche Boxster EV and Fisker Ronin will all be £100,000+. So the MG Cyberster will represent exceptional value for money considering the rest of the market.

The development of the MG Cyberster has been quite an intriguing journey. It started with the Cyberster concept car back in 2021, which caused a stir with numerous leaks. Now, we finally get to witness the official glory of the production version. The Cyberster's design journey involved substantial contributions from the London-based SAIC advanced design studio, led by the talented Carl Gotham.

While the production version is slightly more conservative compared to its concept predecessor, it stays true to the essence of a traditional two-seater roadster, incorporating a modern powertrain underneath its captivating exterior.

The MG Cyberster's design

The design of the MG Cyberster exudes the classic proportions expected of a roadster, featuring a lengthy bonnet, a compact rear section, and a cosy two-seater cabin in between. The electrically-folding fabric roof not only ensures a secure interior environment but also contributes to the clean silhouette of the MG Cyberster, blending seamlessly with the rear deck.

An intriguing touch involves the clever use of black plastic elements around the rear deck, creating an optical illusion of more pronounced rear haunches.

Drawing inspiration from MG's illustrious heritage, the front end showcases sleek headlights and an illuminated badge, complemented by muscular surfacing. At the rear, the design incorporates controversial tail-lights inspired by a graphic representation of the Union Jack flag.

While some of the more eccentric elements from the concept, such as the LED strip on the car's flank, didn't make it to the production model, the eye-catching scissor doors successfully transitioned into reality. And these are generally only found on very high-end cars like Lamborghini or Ferrari.

The MG Cyberster's powertrain and performance

The MG Cyberster's all-electric powertrain will be available in both single and twin-motor configurations, which significantly influenced the car's overall dimensions. This electric roadster will be larger than any MG roadster before it, measuring approximately 4,535mm in length, 1,913mm in width, and 1,329mm in height, comparable to modern BMW Z4 models.

Standard 19-inch wheels will be offered, while higher-spec variants will boast 20-inch wheels, as showcased in the press-released images.

Leaked patent filings shed light on the mechanical specifications of the Cyberster. The entry-level single-motor version is expected to offer 309bhp, while the range-topping dual-motor model will impress with 536bhp.

Although these power figures are indeed impressive, the weight associated with electric vehicles must be considered, with the single-motor Cyberster anticipated to weigh around 1,850kg (similar to a BMW M3 Touring Estate), while the dual-motor variant is expected to top out at 1,985kg. The top speed is estimated to be approximately 124mph, which we think is fast enough.

While specific details regarding the battery packs have yet to be disclosed, MG claimed that the Cyberster concept could achieve a range of 500 miles on a single charge and accelerate from 0-62mph in less than three seconds. 

With over 500bhp at its disposal, the production dual-motor variant might offer similar performance, although a realistic range of around 300 miles is more likely, considering current battery technology. The Cyberster simply doesn't seem big enough to fit a large battery that would offer 500 miles. 

Regardless, 300 miles range is still excellent and the Cyberster will no doubt come with ultra-fast charging technology. 

The MG Cyberster's interior and features

As for the interior, it is expected that Chinese-market MG Cyberster models will offer a Tesla-style yoke multi-function steering wheel as an option, while standard versions will feature a traditional round wheel. We like the Tesla-style yoke and think it would perfectly suit the MG Cyberster's futuristic styling. 

The cabin design draws inspiration from various sports cars, boasting four digital displays. Three of these displays form a wraparound digital dial pack, while the fourth touchscreen is integrated into the dashboard, offering control over functions like air-conditioning and media. Additionally, a rear-view camera will be included. 

It also looks like you will get sporty bucket seats that give the MG Cyberster that extra racy feel.

When will the MG Cyberster be available to buy and how much will it cost?

The European release of the new MG Cyberster is slated for the summer of 2024, apparently, with pricing and detailed specifications to be confirmed closer to the launch.

It will join the expanding lineup of Chinese-built EVs, including offerings from MG and other manufacturers, steadily gaining ground in competitiveness against their Korean, Japanese, and European counterparts. We recently wrote an article regarding whether Chinese EVs are going to take over the West thanks to their excellent pricing.

Guy Pigounakis, the Commercial Director for MG, expressed his thoughts at the unveiling, targeting a price range of £50,000 for the single-motor variant and £60,000 for the dual-motor variant if they were to be available on sale today.

He emphasized that rather than aggressively selling the Cyberster, MG aims to meet the demand that arises naturally. It's interesting that MG doesn't see this car as a mass production car but roadster-style cars never were selling in the millions anyway. I think they are going to wait and see what happens.

Pigounakis also highlighted the role of the Cyberster EV in strengthening MG's brand image, particularly among younger audiences who simply won't remember the days of old when it comes to the MG brand. The Cyberster serves as a vehicle to create hype and a buzz around MG and further elevates them to the likes of the current crop of EV makers like Tesla or VW.

MG expects the Cyberster to deliver exceptional value given the cost of the current crop of EVs in the market, especially in the current (nonexistent) roadster EV segment. If the car delivers and the world is in awe, it's going to add another vehicle to the list of iconic British sports cars.

The MG Cyberster is due to go on sale sometime in the summer of 2024 and will allegedly start from £50,000. However, until MG comes out and gives an official statement about the release date and pricing, take this with a grain of salt.