The MG E-Motion supercar concept looks set to take the company back to its sports car roots, albeit with an electric powertrain, upon its debut at the Shanghai Motor Show next week..

The E-Motion concept, with an all-electric powertrain, is claimed to be capable of 0-100kph in less than 4.0sec, but has a range of over 310 miles/496 kilometres, according to Chinese news site AutoHome. 

The E-Motion shares the same front styling treatment as MG's upcoming ZS small SUV but appears almost Aston Martin-like in profile, with vertical taillights and an uncluttered rear design. The proportions of the car suggest a 2+2 seating layout, although it’s only a two-door; a far cry from the mass-market friendly MG GS SUV and MG 3 supermini currently on sale from the SAIC-owned company.

The E-Motion's front grille appears to take inspiration from Mercedes-Benz’ ‘Diamond’ grille, with patterns of dots in place of traditional mesh, while the front of the car isn’t dissimilar to Mazda’s design language. A motif incorporated into the headlight cluster appears to mimic the MG Icon concept of 2012, though, which in turn paid tribute to the MG B.

A spokesman for MG could not confirm any details about the E-Motion other than that it will make its debut at the Shanghai motor show. They couldn't confirm whether a UK-bound production car would come from the E-Motion concept, but didn’t rule it out.