MG4 Urban: The world's first electric hatchback equipped with a semi-solid-state battery.
MG Motor is about to launch the new MG4 Urban version, incorporating advanced semi-solid-state battery technology, promising superior charging performance and high safety for the mainstream electric vehicle segment.
MG Motor is preparing to make a major breakthrough in the automotive industry with the launch of a new version of its MG4 Urban electric hatchback. Notably, this will be the world's first mass-produced electric vehicle to utilize semi-solid-state battery technology. This move not only demonstrates MG's technological capabilities but also poses a direct challenge to traditional European automakers such as Volkswagen, Renault, and Stellantis in the affordable electric vehicle segment.
SolidCore battery technology and a breakthrough in performance.
The most important technological highlight of the MG4 Urban is its SolidCore battery pack. This is the result of research and development between parent company SAIC and strategic partner QingTao. Completely different from traditional lithium-ion batteries, this semi-solid battery technology uses only about 5% liquid electrolyte, significantly lower than the 20% used in current standard battery packs.
The reduction in liquid electrolyte provides three core advantages for the MG4 Urban. First, safety is significantly enhanced by minimizing the risk of overheating leading to fire or explosion. Second, battery performance becomes more stable, especially in extreme temperatures or cold climates. Finally, charging speed is improved by approximately 15% compared to current LFP battery types. It is expected that the charging time from 10% to 80% will be shorter than the 28–30 minutes of the current version.
Strategy for popularizing high technology in mass-market vehicles.
Instead of experimenting with new technologies on luxury cars like European and American automakers do, MG has chosen a "contrarian" strategy. Introducing solid-state batteries to its affordable hatchback line from the outset demonstrates the company's ambition to dominate the market. According to MG representatives, thanks to an optimized supply chain and large-scale production capabilities, the company can reduce battery costs and quickly bring the new technology to mainstream consumers.
In the Chinese market, a similar version of this model has achieved a driving range of up to 530 km according to CLTC standards. This is an extremely impressive figure for a small urban car. If this level of performance is maintained when exported to Europe, the MG4 Urban will possess a significant competitive advantage in terms of practicality.
Pressure on the European electric vehicle market
Although the official price in the European market has not yet been announced, experts predict that the semi-solid-state battery version will be only slightly more expensive than the standard version's starting price of £23,495. For comparison, in China, the starting price of this model is approximately $14,500.
| Parameter | MG4 Urban (Semi-solid battery expected) |
|---|---|
| Battery type | SolidCore |
| Scope of Operation (CLTC) | 530 km |
| Liquid electrolyte ratio | ~5% |
| Charging time (10-80%) | Under 28 minutes |
| Reference starting price | Approximately £23,495 (in the UK) |
The arrival of the MG4 Urban with its advanced battery technology could completely change the market landscape. While traditional automakers remain cautious about deploying solid-state batteries due to cost barriers, MG is ready to commercialize them. This move not only helps MG solidify its position but also accelerates the adoption of new energy storage technologies faster than expected, creating a more intense race in the global affordable electric vehicle segment.
