New MG4 model intros in China with semi-solid state battery, initial sales priced at 10,100 USD
The MG4, a groundbreaking electric vehicle, has recently hit the market, making waves with its innovative semi-solid-state battery technology. This new battery offers several significant advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries.
The semi-solid-state battery in the MG4 significantly reduces the risk of overheating and fire hazards by minimising liquid electrolyte content to about 5%. This improvement in safety and thermal stability is a game-changer, making the MG4 a safer choice for drivers.
One of the standout features of this new battery is its improved cold-weather performance. The MG4 maintains approximately 13.8% higher range than lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries at around -7°C, addressing a major limitation of conventional batteries whose efficiency typically drops in low temperatures.
The MG4's battery also boasts increased energy density and durability, achieving about 180 Wh/kg, comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries but with enhanced structural integrity and safety due to its gel-like semi-solid electrolyte. This combination of performance and production simplicity makes advanced battery technology accessible in a mainstream, affordable vehicle segment.
The MG4 offers a range of up to 537 km (CLTC-rated) on a single charge, providing efficient performance for daily use in a mass-market EV. Charging from 30% to 80% takes approximately 20 minutes, making it a convenient choice for drivers on the go.
In addition to its impressive battery, the MG4 boasts a spacious interior, rivalling that of mid-size vehicles. It features a 15.6-inch 2.5K floating touchscreen powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8155 chip, offering a seamless user experience.
The MG4 is also equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 120 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience.
The MG4 has started pre-sales in China for approximately $11,000 USD. It is one of the first production vehicles globally to offer a semi-solid-state battery at scale, setting a new standard for electric vehicle technology.
Other notable features include a panoramic sunroof with an electric shade, standard in the MG4, and a heat pump-based thermal management system supporting up to 75% range retention after pre-heating at -7°C. The front seats offer integrated heating and ventilation, and the rear seats recline up to 27 degrees.
The MG4's cabin features EU Reach-compliant baby-grade synthetic leather upholstery, and it has a torsional stiffness rating of 31,000 Nm/deg, surpassing some luxury SUVs.
Moreover, the MG4 offers two lithium iron phosphate battery options with CLTC ranges of 437 km (42.8 kWh) and 530 km (53.9 kWh). It also debuts the MG×Oppo Smart Mobility System, enabling seamless phone-to-car integration with various smartphone brands.
SAIC Motor has invested approximately 500 million yuan to develop an aluminium-rare earth alloy for the battery structure of the MG4, further demonstrating the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
In conclusion, the MG4 is a game-changer in the electric vehicle market, offering a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective driving experience. Its semi-solid-state battery technology combines the safety and stability benefits of solid-state technology with the performance and production simplicity of traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries, making it a compelling choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.
[1] https://www.saic-motor.com/en/news/news_detail/14123.html [2] https://www.saic-motor.com/en/news/news_detail/14231.html [3] https://www.saic-motor.com/en/news/news_detail/14230.html [4] https://www.saic-motor.com/en/news/news_detail/14229.html [5] https://www.saic-motor.com/en/news/news_detail/14228.html
- The introduction of the MG4's semi-solid-state battery technology brings innovative advancements to electric vehicles, as it is not only safer but also provides improved cold-weather performance, increased energy density, and durability, transforming electric vehicles into a more practical and affordable choice for mainstream consumers.
- With the launch of the MG4, electric vehicles are no longer solely associated with luxury, as this affordable vehicle effectively combines the latest technology, such as Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8155 for its touchscreen, and advanced features like heat pump-based thermal management and EU Reach-compliant baby-grade synthetic leather, into a spacious and comfortable cabin similar to that of mid-size vehicles.
