Wild MG concepts preview bold new EV world
A couple of wild EV concepts have been rolled out by a team of UK-based MG designers.
Created to celebrate the third anniversary of an advanced design studio in London owned by MG parent SAIC and to examine a post-pandemic automotive world, they are the MG Maze and R Ryzr.
Don’t expect to see either of them in production any time soon. The next MG ZS EV isn’t going to look like this!
These aren’t the first concepts to appear from SAIC Design in London. It also created the Cyberster, which does appear destined for production.
The Maze is inspired by videogame culture and is an attempt to popularise cars with the next generation of users.
The solution, according to the SAIC design team, is combining the automotive and gaming worlds, with drivers becoming players in a real world treasure hunt of digital art in their cities.
“The discovery of ‘easter eggs’ in the game allows players to build their status, which is displayed on the lighting aspects on the side of the car,” an SAIC Design media release reveals.
“The once familiar surroundings are transformed to interactive, dynamic and expressive art pieces that give a visceral experience to urban mobility again. Players can score points, and earn rewards through the game community.”
The exterior of the MG Maze emulates high-tech gaming hardware, using a see-through polycarbonate shell to show off components.
“The chassis of the car is visible as a carrier for the technical componentry, and houses the motors and interchangeable battery at the rear in a ‘plug and play’ style configuration,” the official release reveals.
“Components such as the GPU, CPU and even cooling are visible and displayed as a key part of the overall aesthetic.”
The Maze cabin comprises two sofa-style seats, a screen and controller. Entry and exit is via the front of the car, which lifts up out of the way.
R is SAIC’s new EV brand and the Ryzr is part-car, part-motorcycle and part-bicycle designed to provide personal urban mobility to “young fashion driven consumers”.
“A central spine dominates the aesthetic of RYZR, with twin seats suspended over either side offering a view on the road that is unparalleled,” the SAIC Deign release explains.
“The open wheeled configuration gives full visibility and spatial awareness crucial for a thrilling yet safe urban experience.
“The dynamic nature of the pivot ability at the front and rear arms, twinned with the hub less front wheel design allows RYZR to carve and lean through the streets giving the user a total thrill and connection to the surroundings.”
