MG Motor is set to become the first automaker in the UK to introduce semi-solid-state batteries in its MG4 Urban hatchback, arriving by the end of 2026. This marks a significant advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology, promising improvements in energy storage, charging speeds, and performance across varying temperatures.
Next-Generation Battery Tech
The new battery system is already in production in China and will be available in Europe within the next two years. While specific details for the European MG4 Urban remain undisclosed, MG anticipates substantial upgrades over existing battery packs.
Key improvements include a 15% faster charging rate in cold conditions, a 100% increase in discharge (and therefore, performance) at low temperatures and low charge levels, and a wider operational temperature range. Current energy density remains comparable to existing batteries at approximately 180Wh/kg, though SAIC, MG’s parent company, is developing future generations with energy densities reaching up to 400Wh/kg—more than doubling the capacity of BMW’s iX3.
Range and Performance Gains
Higher energy density translates to longer ranges for similar-sized batteries or lighter, cheaper packs for comparable range. Chinese-market MG4 Urban models with the new battery offer up to 328 miles (CLTC rating), translating to around 280 miles under the more conservative European WLTP standard. This represents roughly a 20-mile improvement over the current 54kWh MG4 Urban.
More importantly, semi-solid-state systems should deliver greater consistency in range and faster charging times. The Chinese model can charge from 30% to 80% in 21 minutes—seven minutes faster than the current MG4 Urban—though the exact DC charging capacity remains unknown.
Market Implications
The MG4 Urban with semi-solid-state batteries is expected to come at a slight price premium over the existing £24,495 model, potentially replacing it entirely by 2026. This technology will also roll out to other MG vehicles, including the 4X SUV.
This is the first mass-produced, affordable EV with semi-solid-state batteries, making it a landmark development for widespread EV adoption. The technology’s accessibility positions MG as a leader in bringing next-generation battery tech to mainstream consumers.
