MG and Thule are expanding their partnership to offer a broader range of Thule accessories in MG dealerships, according to Diego Steininger, Thule’s local channel manager.
The partnership between Thule and MG began three years ago, before Thule established its dedicated Australian arm, Thule Outdoor Australia.
Diego Steininger said Thule worked with MG engineers to determine the fitments for all MG vehicles and develop specific accessories when needed.
Thule developed MGU9-specific roof racks that accommodate the vehicle’s flush roof rails, which are not compatible with any other vehicle.
The roof racks have three components: the bars, a universal foot pack, and a specific kit for the MG vehicle.
Thule accessories have been available in Australian MG dealerships for about a year and a half, but the rollout is poised to accelerate.
Thule plans to incentivize dealers to sell accessories by providing training, catalogues, and display accessories.
The plan will start with five MG dealerships, including Sydney City MG and dealerships in Melbourne, Perth, and Brisbane.
Dimitri Andreatidis, MG Motor Australia’s marketing director, said MG looks forward to building on its relationship with Thule.
The strengthening of MG’s relationship with Thule will not be limited to Australia, as products developed locally can be rolled out globally.
Diego Steininger said Thule will continue to support MG as it releases new cars and develops fitments for those vehicles.
MG is launching new cars that are not available in other markets that also support our relationship globally, as kits developed for the Australian market can be used in other markets where MG launches the same vehicle.
A number of Thule-provided accessories will be available for the MGU9 EV electric ute, which is arriving in Australian showrooms as of October 29th, including roof top tents, roof boxes, bike racks, kayak carriers, and roof racks.
MG isn’t the only car brand to form a partnership with an accessories provider in Australia. As recently reported, Chery has partnered with Ironman 4×4 to provide accessories for its Stockman diesel Plug-in Hybrid ute.
