New MG4 EV launches in China with solid-state battery due soon

The second-gen MG4 has just gone on sale in China. It bears little in common with the popular original model, other than its zero emissions status. A range-topper with the semi-solid-state battery goes on sale next month.

In its home market, the MG4 is offered in four variants, all with LFP chemistry, and offering up to 526km of range (CLTC testing). The Chinese MG4 sits on a fresh platform that can accept both LFP and sold-state battery packs. The latter are smaller, lighter, and more energy-dense. They are also less likely to catch fire than existing NMC packs. Other advantages include better packaging, faster charging and extended range. 

Check out our 2024 review of the MG4 Long Range.

SAIC says the new battery pack has passed “three-direction needle penetration tests” and “demonstrates improved performance in low-temperature conditions”. 

The new MG4 also debuts ‘battery to body’ integration for improved rigidity and added crash protection for the battery pack. While figures on battery weight and capacity are not yet to hand, the second-gen MG4 is significantly lighter than the original, at 1485kg compared with 1635kg. So potentially it should be a fair bit quicker.

It is lighter than the original, yet the Chinese-spec MG4 is larger all round than the existing car (+108mm in length). It may go on sale alongside the current model in some markets, and could use the MG5 badge. 

The new Chinese hatchback is more conservatively styled than the current MG4, with a softer, more rounded nose. The air intakes are also smaller, as are the splitter and headlights. Its octagonal MG badge remains. 

If the new Chinese MG4 sells outside of China, MG may look to update the current MG4, adopting the MGS5 cabin improvements, including a 12.8-inch touchscreen. Expect more knobs for easier control of aspects like volume and climate settings.

While not yet confirmed for export, there are already strong hints it will sell in Europe at least.