MG Motors, files another patent for SAIC’s subsidiary Wuling Binguo in India as JSW-MG Motor India plans to expand its EV lineup. MG India’s lineup is already comprised of two EV’s, the ZS SUV and a recently launched Wuling Air rebadged version, Comet, sitting in a micro hatch category. The introduction of Wuling Binguo with the MG Badge could be just another addition to this lineup, slated to be launched around festive season of next year.
The Wuling Binguo is a sub-4 meter electric hatchback, which measures 3,950 mm in length, 1,708 mm in width and 1,580 mm in height. The dimensions of Binguo makes it even slightly larger that Tata Tiago EV, almost similar to premium hatchbacks on sale in India. MG has filed the patent for a rebadged Wuling Binguo, but what exactly will it be called under MG’s brand name is still unclear.
In this article we’ll discover on the upcoming Wuling Binguo under MG badge for the Indian market.
Looks:
The 4-door electric hatchback’s front fascia looks inspired from Fiat 500 and Nissan Micra, featuring a a single pod all-led headlamps setup and a blanked out grille. The rear end comprised of a wraparound non-connected led tail lights. The rooftop has a curve coming to the rear end, replicating the design of a coupe. In India, there could be an option of multiple exterior shades including dual and mono tones, to attract a wide range of customers.
Powertrain:
The Wuling Binguo, available in global markets, presents a range of powertrain choices. The entry level variant boasts a 30 kW electric motor, paired with a 17.3 kWh battery, allowing for a driving range of approximately 203 kms. There’s also a higher spec version that comes with a 50 kW motor, supported by a 31.9 kWh battery, thus increasing the range to 333 kms.
Additionally, Wuling introduced a variant last year with a larger 37.9 kWh LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery, which significantly boosts the range to 410 kms. However, the specific model or models that MG will introduce in India are yet to be disclosed, leaving the possibilities open.
Features:
The cabin of Wuling Binguo is offered with an identical layout to the Wuling Air or the Comet EV, featuring highlights such as a single connected 10.25 inch screen for infotainment as well as the fully digital instrument cluster, Single zone climate control, two spoke steering with mounted controls, electronic paring brake, electronically 6-way adjustable driver and 4-way co passenger seats, TPMS, powered windows and a rotatory gear dial.
However, features like wireless charging, rear ac vents, front seats ventilation and sunroof lacks from the Wuling Binguo. There is no regenerative braking on offer as well. The Indian version, looking at the competition is expected to introduce some of these features which could include a single pane sunroof and wireless charging, yet major technological advancements specially, the regenerative braking might not see its way in India too, as a result to keep the prices in check.
Safety:
The Wuling Binguo EV is well-equipped with features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, ISOFIX, an electric parking brake with auto hold, TPMS, and a rear parking camera with sensors. However, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) might not be included, as MG’s version of the Wuling Binguo EV for India is aimed at a more budget conscious market.
MG Motors, apart from the Wuling Binguo is also planning to introduce another two EV’s in its lineup followed by a Comet’s platform underpinned Micro SUV based on 3-door Baojun Yep EV, codename (e260) and Cloud EV. The Cloud EV has been spotted testing on Indian roads under camouflage multiple times as production ready spec. Rumours also believe, the Cloud EV, could only be the MG’s version of Wuling Binguo with a completely changed look and so the cosmetics, as both the cars looks identical comparing the dimensions. However, the JSW-MG Motor India has not clarified anything from their end yet.
