Chinese automaker MG has announced plans to expedite structural upgrades and implement new crash-avoidance technology for the MG 5 sedan following its dismal safety rating in Australia. The vehicle recently received a zero-star safety rating from ANCAP, making it one of only three cars to achieve such a low score.
The MG 5 performed poorly in crash protection, injury prevention for occupants, and the effectiveness of its advanced safety features in avoiding collisions. In response, MG has committed to introducing a series of safety enhancements aimed at improving the vehicle's crash-test performance for occupants and pedestrians. These upgrades are expected to be rolled out next year and will include new crash-avoidance features such as lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and an advanced autonomous emergency braking system.
Planned Safety Upgrades
The investment in these safety upgrades, which will be standard on all models, is estimated at $4 million. While the impact of these enhancements on pricing remains to be seen, it is evident that the inclusion of advanced safety features may result in a price adjustment. The current model of the MG 5 starts at $24,990 drive-away.
Future Testing and Upgrades
It is yet to be confirmed whether MG will submit the upgraded MG 5 for re-testing by ANCAP, but the significant investment in safety improvements suggests that this may be a possibility. However, despite these planned upgrades, the car maker has not announced any substantial changes to the frontal crash structure or the addition of more airbags, which may impact its overall safety rating.
The current MG 5's poor performance in various safety categories resulted in its zero-star rating from ANCAP. The vehicle scored low in Adult Occupant Protection, Safety Assist, Vulnerable Road User Protection, and Child Occupant Protection. To address these deficiencies, MG plans to implement physical crash-protection changes including seatbelt pre-tensioners on all seats and dynamic load tensioners to manage the force exerted on seat belts during a collision.
Additional Safety Measures
Furthermore, the company has announced additional safety measures such as a "calf protection panel" for pedestrian safety, a "forward impact sensor," and an occupant monitoring system. Advanced safety technology will also receive significant upgrades, including traffic sign recognition, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, and an enhanced autonomous emergency braking system.
Impact on Pricing and Market Positioning
While these improvements are expected to enhance the safety features of the MG 5, it is likely that prices will increase due to the inclusion of these advanced technologies. Despite being one of Australia's cheapest new sedans, with the current model starting at $24,990 drive-away, the introduction of these safety enhancements may result in a price adjustment.
Despite its recent zero-star safety rating, the MG 5 has seen some success in the market, ranking as the third-best selling vehicle in the 'small car under $40,000' category last month. With 758 deliveries, it outperformed competitors such as the Kia Cerato and Mazda 3. However, the implementation of these safety upgrades may influence its competitive positioning within the market.
Summary
MG's commitment to fast-tracking structural upgrades and implementing new crash-avoidance technology for the MG 5 sedan reflects a proactive approach to addressing its safety deficiencies. The planned enhancements are poised to improve the vehicle's safety performance and align with industry standards, albeit potentially impacting its pricing and market positioning.
(This article is sourced from drive.com.au and curated by Thetransporteronline24)
