Longbridge Back in Business, New Models in the Works
May 8, 2008 1:19 PM by Sam Stockley Filed Under: MG
MG, now under ownership by Chinese manufacturer SAIC, have announced the production of the TF LE500 from August at the ex-MG Rover Longbridge plant in Birmingham. Having undergone a number of 'active quality improvements' as well as optimisation of parts, the new TF is part of a thought-out strategy to re-introduce the MG brand to the UK.
“The open top sportscar is an iconic image of British motoring and forms the basis of the MG marque’s long pedigree," says Gary Hagen, Director of Sales & Marketing. "The launch of the TF LE500 signals our determination to keep this class of car at the heart of the brand as we take it forward.”
And taking it forward is exactly what's on the books at the brand's facility in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. Designers are currently planning a number of new MG models aimed at capturing the essence of the brand and taking it into new sectors, while rumours emerging from Auto Express suggest that an all-new TF model is in the pipeline, offering both convertible and coupe options for 2010. Also expected is a re-worked version of the Roewe 550 in a similar move to the old MG-Rover brand relationship.
The first deliveries to showrooms begin September, a moment inconcievable at the break-up of the British firm in 2005.
MG has announced that production of the TF LE500 sportscar will commence at their Longbridge plant in Birmingham at the beginning of August, with the first cars delivered to showrooms in September.
Chairman for NAC MG UK Ltd, Mr He, Xiao Qing, said; “I am delighted to be in a position to talk about a launch date for the TF LE500 following a process of planning, re-organisation, active quality improvements and parts optimisation that we recognise resulted in frustration for our stakeholders. We are now fully focussed on bringing our hard work to fruition.”
The new car is expected to appeal to a wide range of car buyers looking for the authentic sportscar driving experience, as well as existing small sportscar owners looking to upgrade, current owners and the large band of MG enthusiasts.
Gary Hagen, Director of Sales & Marketing continued, “The open top sportscar is an iconic image of British motoring and forms the basis of the MG marque’s long pedigree. The launch of the TF LE500 signals our determination to keep this class of car at the heart of the brand as we take it forward.”
With the launch of the new TF LE500, the company knows that it is also re-launching one of the best known and best loved brands in the world. Whilst production efforts at Longbridge are focussed on the LE500, designers at their SMTC facility in Leamington, Warwickshire are already planning exciting new MG models that will capture the essential qualities of the MG brand and extend the range into additional sectors.
The commitment planned by MG and the level of investment underwritten by SAIC will persuade doubters that the MG brand is being re-launched with the support to make it successful again. The fact is that in 2008, desirable and competitive British made sportscars will once again be rolling off a production line in Longbridge. A sight that many thought they might never see again.
