MG’s groundbreaking electric hypercar is on track to break the land speed record for electric vehicles
Currently, the Rimac Nevera holds the record for the fastest production EV, smashing the 258mph mark thanks to its 1,888bhp, four-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain and potent battery pack combo, which is also capable of delivering a mightily impressive real-world range of more than 300 miles.
MG is gearing up to unveil one of its most radical concepts to date, as it prepares to cement its reputation as a producer of exciting EVs at this year’s Beijing motor show. Its latest EXE181 electric hypercar is on track to be among one of the most aerodynamically accomplished cars ever built, boasting a theoretical drag co-efficient figure of just 0.181, lower than both the McLaren Speedtail and the hyper-miling Volkswagen XL1 of 2013.
The now-SAIC owned MG has cleverly plundered its archives, using the radical EX181 land speed record car driven by Stirling Moss and Phil Hill throughout the late 1950s as inspiration. Although the exact electric powertrain hasn’t been revealed for the modern interpretation, MG says it is aiming for a 0-62mph sprint time of just 1.9 seconds and an overall top speed that betters the petrol-powered model of the 1950s – making it one of the fastest EVs ever produced.
The stunning EXE181 is pure theatre inside too, opting for a single seat, central driving position and a tiny, yoke-style steering wheel reminiscent of a modern F1 car. The hypercar is set to make its debut not only at the Beijing motor show but also at the UK’s Goodwood Festival of Speed in the summer where MG celebrates its centenary year with a host of activities.
Analysis: MG distances itself from boring
The instantly recognizable British badge has experienced rocky times since the collapse of MG Rover Group in 2005. Under fresh management, the range has been revised with the switch to electrification, adding spice to the brand with models like the MG4 EV Power and the drop-top MG Cyberster. MG is aiming to gain credibility in the luxury performance sector with its latest concepts and innovations.
At this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the Chinese-owned brand unveiled its Intelligent Mobility (IM) subdivision focused on premium executive saloons and larger SUVs, along with stylish SUVs like the MG9 and MG S9 EVs which will compete with models like Tesla’s Model Y. The EXE181 concept, while unlikely to enter production, showcases MG’s prowess in the EV performance and design arena, signaling a bold new direction for the brand.
