MG is pulling out all the stops to celebrate its centenary at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, showcasing a stunning display of heritage, cutting-edge concepts, and a brand new production model. The event marked a memorable moment for the iconic British car brand, blending its rich history with a glimpse into its electrified future.
The festivities kicked off with a spectacular parade led by the Duke of Richmond himself. Taking the wheel of one of his grandfather's racing MG C-Types, a car that competed at the legendary Brooklands Double 12 in 1931, the Duke led a diverse group of MGs representing the brand's finest road and track achievements. Lined up alongside the C-Type were modern marvels like the new MG Cyberster convertible, sharing the spotlight with classic models like the MGA Le Mans, MGC GTS Sebring, and the MG 6R4.
But MG wasn't just celebrating its past. The Goodwood Festival of Speed also provided the perfect platform for the global debut of the dramatic MG Cyber GTS Concept. Introduced by Jozef Kaban, Vice President of MG's Global Design Centre, the Cyber GTS pays homage to the legendary MGC GTS Sebring – a car that secured MG's best-ever factory result at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1968.
Inspired by the “Mable” car piloted by Paddy Hopkirk and Andrew Hedges, the Cyber GTS Concept reimagines the spirit of the Sebring for the electric era. This concept car explores the potential for a new, rear-wheel-drive GTS model powered by MG's advanced, high-performance EV technology. Following in the footsteps of the world's first production open-top electric two-seater, the Cyberster, the Cyber GTS is a clear sign of MG's commitment to an electric future.
The MG stand also featured the stunning EXE181, a unique concept car designed by the MG London design team. Taking inspiration from the original MG EX181, a car that broke numerous small-engine records and the land speed record in 1957, the EXE181 embodies the pioneering spirit of MG. Nicknamed the “Roaring Raindrop,” the original EX181 showcased the capabilities of a production MG engine, achieving a remarkable 245.64mph at Bonneville Salt Flats.
The EXE181 concept car takes inspiration from its illustrious predecessor, but reimagines it for the electric era. Faithful to many of the original's key features, the EXE181 boasts a central spine, a compact single-seat cabin, and an open canopy. The colour scheme also pays homage to the original car, with white representing the salt flats and blue symbolizing the vast sky. Designed with purpose and authenticity, the EXE181 achieves a drag coefficient of 0.181 and features a modern user interface.
As described by Jozef Kaban, the EXE181 “is a unique opportunity to pay homage to the pioneering spirit of MG whilst exploring the future with a dramatic interpretation of a potential EV land speed challenger.”
The MG centenary celebrations extended beyond the show floor. In front of Goodwood House, Gerry Judah's spectacular Festival of Speed Central Feature displayed the Cyberster alongside its iconic predecessor, the MGB. The momentous occasion was capped off with a dazzling fireworks display, a fitting tribute to MG's 100 remarkable years.
MG's presence at Goodwood wasn't all about concepts and heritage. The brand also took the opportunity to unveil the all-new MG HS SUV, making its global debut. Available in both petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, the new HS underlines MG's commitment to value while offering an array of new features, increased cabin space, and enhanced styling. This exciting new addition is sure to make the HS an even more compelling proposition in the sought-after SUV segment.
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