MG’s new electric roadster, the Cyberster, is set to hit UK roads next summer and is targeting the Porsche 718 Boxster’s market. While details have been leaked over the past year, the official unveiling has finally taken place. The Cyberster is a descendant of classic MG models like the MG A, MG B, and MG F, and marks a return to the convertible sports car market for the brand under Chinese owners SAIC.
The most recent images of the new model have been released, giving us a glimpse at the official design. Although toned down, the car still holds a striking resemblance to the Cyberster Roadster concept that was showcased at the 2021 Shanghai motor show. Important design elements, such as the sloping nose, rear Kamm-tail, and scissor doors, have been retained in the production version. It will be an electric rival to the upcoming Porsche Boxster.
According to patent filings, the Cyberster is a larger vehicle than the current 718 Boxster, measuring at 4535mm in length and 1913mm in width. Don’t be fooled by its sleek exterior; this electric roadster packs powerful performance capabilities. With a single motor, it can generate 309bhp, while the dual-motor version with all-wheel drive can offer up to 536bhp, comparable to ICE roadsters from higher-end classes. However, one downside is that the Cyberster will weigh as much as bigger gasoline-powered convertibles, with the dual-motor version expected to weigh about 1985kg, similar to a Mercedes-AMG SL55. Even the two-wheel drive Cyberster will come in at a hefty 1850kg. While there’s no official information on performance or range, it’s anticipated that the Cyberster will achieve a sprint to 62mph in under 4 seconds and have a range of approximately 300 miles for the single-motor vehicle.
The Cyberster’s cabin is accessed through doors that swing upwards, enveloping the driver with a high centre console and angled dashboard. The dashboard features a free-standing digital instrument panel, spanning across it in a triple-screen layout. The yoke-style steering wheel complements this digitised theme. The climate control touch panel, situated in a portrait orientation, is also digitised and flanked by a grab handle that’s easily accessible for the passenger. This feature is particularly useful considering the Cyberster’s impressive 536bhp output, making it a thrilling ride.
Scheduled for its debut in the summer of 2024, the Cyberster is among the first electric roadsters to hit the market. With a price range of £50,000 to £60,000, manufacturers are eager to explore how to address the challenge of creating an EV sports car. To achieve a sense of involvement, models such as the Cyberster, Boxster EV, and replacement for the electric Alpine A110 will rely heavily on advanced chassis electronics and augmentation. We anticipate that this initial phase of testing will yield some fascinating findings.
