Epic Road Trip: Twins Drive from London to Shanghai in Electric Sports Car
Twins Hugo and Ross Turner have completed an incredible 10,000-mile road trip from London to Shanghai in a red convertible electric MG Cyberster. Their journey marks a significant milestone for Chinese-owned MG, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024.
Starting at Westminster Bridge in London, the 35-year-old brothers from Devon embarked on their epic adventure in September 2023. Over eight months, they traversed three continents and 28 countries, including Italy, Austria, Qatar, and Cambodia.
The purpose of their expedition, titled 'Charging Into The Future,' was to demonstrate the capabilities of the MG Cyberster across various terrains. Hugo explained that they wanted to drive the car through mountains, cities, deserts, and tropical regions to test its versatility.
The Turners have a history of undertaking challenging adventures, motivated by Hugo’s near-paralysis after a diving accident as a teenager. Their past exploits include rowing across the Atlantic and trekking across Greenland’s polar ice cap.
Ross highlighted that their adventurous spirit likely caught the attention of MG, making them ideal candidates for this ambitious project. The MG Cyberster, a red British droptop capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds, added a unique element to their journey.
Their route took them from the UK to Europe, where they spent several months exploring the continent. Highlights included driving through the Pyrenees, experiencing four seasons in one day, and witnessing the sunrise over the mountain range.
After a short break, they resumed their trip in the Middle East, starting in Istanbul and traveling through Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. They then moved on to Southeast Asia, visiting Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam before reaching Shanghai.
Ross recalled the awe-inspiring moment of witnessing the spring equinox over Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia, describing it as a serene, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hugo remembered driving through the Pyrenees with the roof down, marveling at the breathtaking views.
Navigating through challenging locations like central Paris and Istanbul's traffic tested their driving skills. The language barrier in China added another layer of difficulty, especially with road signs.
Logistical preparation was crucial for the success of their journey. Ross emphasized the importance of visas, itineraries, and coordinating with MG teams and car clubs in different locations. Charging the car was relatively easy due to the well-established charging networks in the UK, Europe, and China.
Reflecting on their adventure, Hugo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures and experience the hospitality of people across the globe. The trip was not only a testament to the capabilities of the MG Cyberster but also a celebration of human connection and exploration.