The MG4’s semi-solid-state battery, manufactured by Suzhou Qingtao Power Technology, marks a departure from the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries used in other MG4 models. Containing just 5% liquid electrolyte, this manganese-based lithium-ion battery offers improved thermal stability and has passed rigorous safety tests, including a 360-degree puncture test. According to SAIC, it achieves an energy density of 180 watt-hours per kilogram, slightly below Tesla’s 4680 cells but competitive for its price point. The battery’s key advantage lies in its 13.8% better range retention in cold weather compared to LFP batteries, addressing a common pain point for EV drivers in harsh climates. While exact range and capacity details remain undisclosed, the MG4’s base models offer CLTC ranges of 272 to 330 miles, suggesting the new battery could push these figures higher.
Affordable Innovation for the Masses
Priced between $10,000 and $15,000 (73,800 to 105,800 yuan), the MG4 with its semi-solid-state battery targets affordability, directly competing with compact EVs like the BYD Dolphin. Available in four trims—Comfort, Ease, Freedom, and Smart—the vehicle combines its groundbreaking battery with practical features like a 120 kW (161 hp) front-mounted electric motor and a 15.6-inch floating infotainment screen packed with smart tech. At 4,395 mm long and with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, it’s slightly larger than the Dolphin, offering a roomier cabin. Optional upgrades, including a 360-degree camera, privacy glass, and a tinted roof, enhance its appeal for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium features. SAIC claims this is the first globally launched mass-produced EV with this battery technology, making high-tech innovation accessible at a low cost.
Why Semi-Solid-State Matters
Semi-solid-state batteries represent a bridge between conventional lithium-ion batteries and the elusive “holy grail” of fully solid-state designs. By using a gel electrolyte instead of a liquid one, these batteries reduce the risk of leaks and fires while maintaining structural integrity. This makes them easier and cheaper to produce at scale than fully solid-state batteries, which remain costly and complex to manufacture. For EV users, the benefits are tangible: improved safety, better performance in extreme temperatures, and the potential for longer ranges without the premium price tag. The MG4’s adoption of this technology could pressure competitors to accelerate their own battery innovations, reshaping the EV market’s landscape.
Challenges and Global Ambitions
While the MG4’s clearance for sale in China is a triumph, its global rollout faces hurdles. Pricing and specifications for international markets, including Europe and Australia where MG has a strong presence, will be revealed in September, with deliveries expected by year-end. However, trade barriers, such as potential tariffs in regions like the U.S., could complicate its expansion. The semi-solid-state battery’s real-world performance—particularly its range and charging speed—remains untested until consumer feedback emerges. Still, MG’s move positions it as a leader in affordable EV innovation, challenging giants like BYD and Tesla to match its value proposition.
A Glimpse into the Future of EVs
The MG4’s semi-solid-state battery is a bold step toward making electric vehicles safer, more efficient, and more accessible. By blending cutting-edge technology with a budget-friendly price, MG is democratizing advancements that were once reserved for luxury models. As the auto industry races to develop fully solid-state batteries, the MG4 proves that incremental innovations can have an immediate impact. For drivers, this means an EV that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank, potentially redefining expectations for compact electric cars worldwide.
