China’s largest automaker, SAIC Motor, is once again making headlines. Known for its sprawling network of sub-brands and frequent badge-swapping strategies, SAIC continues to blur the lines between its many EV models. The latest example is the launch of the MG 9 sedan and MG S9 crossover SUV — two new premium electric cars unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
While they wear the familiar MG badge, these models are, in fact, rebadged versions of Rising Auto’s F7 and R7 EVs from China.
The Strategy Behind the MG 9 and MG S9
SAIC has a history of repositioning its sub-brands for global markets. In recent months, Intelligence in Motion (IM)—another SAIC-owned brand—announced plans to sell its EVs in Europe under the MG nameplate. However, the new MG 9 and MG S9 are not from IM’s lineup but from Rising Auto, another SAIC subsidiary.
The result? A tangled web of rebranding that leaves even industry experts scratching their heads. But SAIC’s objective is clear — use MG’s global recognition to push Chinese-made EVs deeper into Europe’s premium segment.
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From Rising to MG: A Branding Evolution
The MG brand, once synonymous with classic British sports cars, has transformed under Chinese ownership. Since SAIC acquired MG, it has become a versatile brand name used to market a variety of electric vehicles worldwide.
Rising Auto, which began as a spin-off from Roewe (yet another SAIC brand), became an independent EV division in 2020. Despite producing capable cars, Rising struggled to gain traction in China’s crowded EV market due to high pricing and low brand awareness. By rebranding these vehicles as MG, SAIC hopes to attract more buyers in Europe who associate MG with reliability and affordability.
MG 9: A Premium Electric Sedan with Familiar DNA
The MG 9 sedan draws clear inspiration from the Nio ET7 with its sleek, coupe-like silhouette and aerodynamic efficiency. Measuring 5,000 mm in length, 1,953 mm in width, and 1,494 mm in height, with a 3,000 mm wheelbase, the MG 9 sits slightly larger than the Tesla Model S and just 60 mm shorter than the BMW i5.
Its drag coefficient of 0.206 Cd underscores its focus on performance and efficiency.
Underneath, the MG 9 shares its platform and powertrain with the Rising F7:
- Single-motor version: 250 kW rear-mounted motor
- Battery options: 64 kWh (LFP/NMC) to 90 kWh
- Range: Up to 436 miles (CLTC) on the largest battery
- Dual-motor AWD: 400 kW system rumored to be available later
MG 9 Interior: Luxury Meets Technology
Inside, the MG 9 delivers a premium, tech-forward experience. The cabin features:
- A triple-screen dashboard inspired by Mercedes’ MBUX system
- An 8-inch rear passenger screen
- Advanced voice and gesture controls
- Wireless connectivity and over-the-air (OTA) updates
In China, the Rising F7 also features battery-swapping technology, allowing depleted packs to be replaced in under 90 seconds. However, this feature is unlikely to reach European markets soon due to infrastructure limitations.
MG S9: The Electric Crossover Companion
Launched alongside the MG 9, the MG S9 crossover is essentially a rebadged Rising R7. Despite minor MG styling tweaks, the resemblance to its Chinese sibling is clear.
The MG S9 measures 4,900 mm long, 1,925 mm wide, and 1,655 mm high, placing it squarely in competition with the Tesla Model Y and NIO EL6.
Performance specs include:
- 250 kW single rear motor
- 77 kWh NMC battery pack
- 354-mile CLTC range
- Optional AR head-up display and triple-screen interior layout
While the Rising R7 offered a 400 kW dual-motor version in China, the MG S9 currently appears limited to the single-motor configuration — possibly due to pricing constraints.
Pricing and Market Outlook
In China, the Rising F7 and R7 are priced between $26,390 and $43,050. European pricing for the MG 9 and MG S9 hasn’t been announced yet, but given SAIC’s global strategy, expect a premium markup to position these models against rivals from Zeekr, XPeng, and Nio.
The MG 9’s blend of design, performance, and technology could make it a compelling alternative for European buyers seeking a luxury EV at a mid-range price — if SAIC can strike the right balance between cost and value.
The MG 9 represents a bold move by SAIC to elevate MG’s brand image from budget-friendly to premium electric mobility. Its sophisticated design, strong performance specs, and cutting-edge interior tech give it serious potential.
However, the heavy reliance on rebadging may challenge MG’s credibility among discerning European buyers. In an increasingly crowded EV market, authenticity, performance, and pricing will determine whether the MG 9 can truly compete with established players.
Still, one thing is certain — the MG 9 signals MG’s ambition to evolve beyond its heritage and claim a spot among Europe’s modern electric luxury sedans.
