BMW ( MG Zero ) Concept

Exterior Concept

The Zero was one of the surprises of the Beijing show, and represents the best example of the new ‘Facet Flow’ MG form language that the design teams in Shanghai and UK have been developing. In terms of exterior surfaces, this car appears close to production and SAIC expects the Zero to compete with the Ford Fiesta and Fiat’s Grande Punto to attract entry-level younger customers. Program Manager Sam Sun explained the thinking behind the design: “There’s a misunderstanding by many younger Chinese buyers about what a sporty car should be – there’s real confusion with aftermarket customizing, which is not our aim.”

Looked Back

Side View

Interior Concept

The best part of the Zero is undoubtedly the interior, which demonstrates a higher level of sophistication and new ideas compared to most concepts seen here today. A slim horizontal console connects to the driver’s seat in a quasi-octagon motif, and a lower center console runs through into the rear seat. The lozenge theme is continued in the seats, which feature red MG logos that illuminate through the fabric. Further red highlights are created using LEDS in the door lining, steering wheel rim, plus ambient lighting used in the footwells. “We’ve decided to offer this high contrast black and white theme on one trim level for production too” explains Sam Sun. Overall, the interior reminds in some ways of a sportier version of the VW Up! but that’s not to detract from the freshness of the design quality. SAIC expects production to start later this year, with sales in Europe targeted in their plans.