The first MG under Chinese ownership will be the MG TF LE500, with the first cars on sale in time for the 09 September registration. NAC claims the TF has been reworked, though it still uses the same 135bhp 1.8-litre engine and PG1 five-speed manual gearbox.

Nevertheless, 150 advance orders have been placed, a UK dealer network has been established and, with many parts sourced from China, pricing should be competitive. Further down the line, Nanjing is planning three brand new models for Longbridge, although it states that it isn’t looking for high volumes from the plant. Find out more at www.mg-uk.co.uk