SAIC to electrify all models by 2025

Chinese car-making conglomerate SAIC Motor, who claims brands such as MG, Maxus (badged as LDV in Australia) and Roewe in its stable, will bring electrification to its entire model line-up by 2025.

The first of the electrified models to make their way to Australian showrooms will be the MG eZS small SUV that is earmarked to launch in the next 12 months with a targeted $30,000 before on-roads pricetag.

Powered by a single electric motor that drives the front axle, the eZS produces 110kW/350Nm and its 44.5kWh battery is good for a driving range of 335km on the outdated New European Driving Cycle test procedure.

MG also builds the eMG6 plug-in sedan, which is restricted to left-hand-drive production, while the MG3 light hatchback and GS-replacing HS mid-size SUV will also be given electric powertrain options.

MG builds the eMG6 plug-in sedan, which is restricted to left-hand-drive production.

As for LDV, it’s light-commercial vehicle (LCV) range consisting of the T60 pick-up, D90 large SUV, plus G10 and V80 vans will be given a boost through electrification.

Speaking to media at this year’s Shanghai motor show, SAIC deputy managing director Matt Lei confirmed that LDV’s line-up would become electrified through a new Maxus Intelligent Flexible Architecture (MIFA) platform.

“MIFA will allow EV to be used across the LDV range,” he said. “It will be available in three tyres to suit applications such as car, SUV and van.”

LDV’s line-up will become electrified through a new MIFA platform.

Roewe, MG’s cousin brand which was born from Rover, offer 10 models exclusively for the Chinese market with 50 percent already available with full-electric or hybrid powertrains.

SAIC expects EV sales to expand to 600,000 units by the end of 2020, a massive leap from the 140,000 sales it managed in 2018.

The push in EV sales comes despite the Chinese government easing buyer subsidies and incentives on electrified vehicles, though Mr Lei said continued charging infrastructure expansion will help support the SAIC’s ambitions.

Read More About MG ZS

MG EZS electric SUV confirmed for Australia

Are you interested in a Chinese electric vehicle? Tell us what you think in the comments below.