MG 4 Urban: Next EV With Semi-Solid Battery Launching Soon

Asher

MG 4 debuts revolutionary semi-solid state battery tech at $11,000, offering 537km range & superior cold weather performance for everyday drivers.

Electric vehicles are about to get a lot more interesting, and MG is leading the charge with something genuinely revolutionary. The new MG 4 isn’t just another electric hatchback – it’s making history as the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle to feature semi-solid state battery technology at an affordable price point.

Breaking Down the Semi-Solid State Battery Revolution

Let’s talk about what makes this MG 4 so special. Traditional electric vehicles rely on liquid electrolyte batteries, but MG has partnered with QingTao Energy to develop something completely different. The new semi-solid state battery contains only 5% liquid electrolyte, compared to the 100% liquid found in conventional EV batteries.

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This isn’t just a technical achievement – it’s a practical breakthrough that addresses real-world concerns. The battery delivers an impressive 537 kilometers of range on the CLTC cycle, which translates to roughly 333 miles under more realistic testing conditions. More importantly, it performs 13.8% better in cold weather conditions at -7°C compared to standard lithium-iron-phosphate batteries.

Performance That Actually Matters

The MG 4 comes equipped with a 70 kWh battery pack powering a rear-mounted 120 kW electric motor. This rear-wheel-drive setup isn’t just about driving dynamics – it’s designed to give you a more engaging experience behind the wheel. The energy density sits at 180 Wh/kg, which might not sound impressive compared to some premium batteries, but it’s optimized for affordability and reliability.

What really stands out is the price. Starting at approximately $11,000 in China, this makes advanced battery technology accessible to everyday drivers rather than just luxury car buyers.

Design and Dimensions: Bigger and Better

Spacious Interior Meets Modern Styling

The new MG 4 has grown significantly compared to its predecessor and competitors. At 4,395mm in length and 1,842mm in width, with a 2,750mm wheelbase, it offers more space than rivals like the BYD Dolphin, which measures 4,280mm in length with a 2,700mm wheelbase.

The design takes inspiration from MG’s electric roadster, the Cyberster, featuring a sculpted front fascia, separated headlamp units, and an illuminated MG logo. The styling is more refined than the current MG 4, with softer lines and new color options including pastel green and purple finishes.

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Advanced Technology Integration

Inside, you’ll find the MG×Oppo cockpit system, developed in partnership with smartphone manufacturer Oppo. This integration goes beyond simple smartphone connectivity – it supports voice commands, gesture navigation, and seamless phone app synchronization, making your daily driving experience more intuitive.

Australian Market Prospects: The MG 4 Urban

Trademark Hints at Local Launch

Here’s where things get interesting for Australian buyers. SAIC Motor has applied to trademark the name “MG 4 EV Urban” with IP Australia, suggesting this revolutionary electric vehicle could arrive in Australia alongside the existing MG 4 lineup.

MG Motor Australia hasn’t confirmed the launch details yet, but they’ve stated they’re “reviewing this new model and considering it for the Australian market.” The current MG 4 was Australia’s fifth best-selling EV in the first half of 2025, with 2,268 deliveries, proving there’s strong demand for affordable electric vehicles.

SpecificationDetails
Battery Capacity70 kWh semi-solid state
Range (CLTC)537 kilometers
Motor Power120 kW rear-mounted
Dimensions4,395mm × 1,842mm × 1,551mm
Wheelbase2,750mm
Energy Density180 Wh/kg
Cold Weather Performance13.8% better than LFP batteries
Starting Price (China)Approximately $11,000

Safety and Reliability: Built for Real-World Use

Rigorous Testing Standards

The semi-solid state battery has undergone extensive safety testing, including a comprehensive 360-degree puncture test. This testing regime demonstrates MG’s commitment to ensuring the technology is ready for everyday use, not just impressive in laboratory conditions.

The reduced liquid content in the battery also means lower fire risk and better thermal stability compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This addresses one of the main concerns people have about electric vehicle safety.

What This Means for Electric Vehicle Adoption

Democratizing Advanced Technology

The MG 4 with semi-solid state battery technology represents a significant shift in the electric vehicle landscape. Previously, advanced battery technologies were reserved for expensive vehicles or remained in the concept stage. By bringing this technology to a $11,000 price point, MG is making it accessible to a much broader audience.

This move could accelerate electric vehicle adoption globally, particularly in markets where price sensitivity is a major factor in vehicle purchasing decisions. The improved cold weather performance also makes electric vehicles more practical in climates where traditional EVs struggle.

Competition and Market Impact

Other manufacturers like Volkswagen and Toyota are working on similar technologies, but Toyota doesn’t expect to begin mass production until 2027. This gives MG a significant first-mover advantage in the affordable semi-solid state battery segment.

Production and Availability

Production of the new MG 4 has already begun at SAIC’s manufacturing facility in Nanjing, China. The official launch occurred on August 5, 2025, with pre-orders opening simultaneously.

For Australian customers interested in the potential MG 4 Urban, patience will be required as MG evaluates market demand and regulatory requirements. However, given the success of the current MG 4 in Australia, there’s strong reason to be optimistic about local availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will the MG 4 with semi-solid state battery be available in Australia?

A: MG Motor Australia is currently reviewing the model for the Australian market, but no official launch date has been announced. The trademarked “MG 4 EV Urban” name suggests it’s being seriously considered.

Q: How much will the MG 4 with semi-solid state battery cost in Australia?

A: While it starts at around $11,000 in China, Australian pricing would likely be higher due to import duties, local regulations, and market positioning. Expect it to remain competitively priced against other electric hatchbacks.

Q: Is the semi-solid state battery technology safe and reliable?

A: Yes, the battery has passed rigorous safety testing including 360-degree puncture tests. The reduced liquid electrolyte content actually makes it safer than traditional batteries with lower fire risk and better thermal stability.

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