All-new MG4 sales rocket ahead

Over 11,000 people have preordered SAIC Motor’s all-new MG4 EV within 24 hours of its pre-launch. And that’s just of the models with the conventional LFP battery type. 

The new electric hatchback is offered in four variants but the semi-solid battery version of the MG4 is not launching until next month. That is also when deliveries begin.

The exterior of the new MG4 EV retains its hatchback form factor. It draws inspiration from the Cyberster’s fascia, including an illuminated MG logo. In profile, the vehicle features black window surrounds, and distinctive petal-shaped wheels. 

It measures up at 4395mm in length, 1842mm in width, and 1551mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750mm.

At the rear, the MG4 EV adopts arrow-shaped taillights, mirroring the Cyberster’s design and inspired by the Union Jack flag. 

The new model will be available in six different exterior colours.

Inside, the infotainment system is a result of a collaboration between SAIC and Oppo, offering smartphone integration that allows users to control their phone’s content directly from the car’s display. 

Its new Cell-to-Body (CTB) battery integration technology lowers the floor height, maximising interior space.

Unlike the existing model, the new MG4 EV features a front-wheel drive powertrain, with the electric motor delivering 120kW. Evidently the LFP battery pack can take a 30 to 80 per cent charge in 20min, under optimal conditions. 

Read our review of MG Cyberster.

The chassis features MacPherson independent suspension at the front and torsion beam suspension at the rear. That’s a change from the fully independent rear suspension of the existing model, presumably for more luggage space.

As to its solid-state battery technology, SAIC has overpromised in the past. Last year, when it launched its upmarket IM L6 model, the company claimed the vehicle would be equipped with a ‘full solid-state battery and a 1000-kilometre range’. A year later that has not yet come to pass, and the IM L6 doesn’t have a semi-solid-state battery either. 

So come September it will be interesting to see whether the MG4’s semi-solid-state battery eventuates.