MG readies new battery tech

The all-new second-generation 2026 MG4 will come with cutting edge, semi-solid-state batteries in what’s described as a world first for a mass-produced EV in a bid to crush its opposition.

According to MG’s brand manager, Chen Chui, speaking to CarNewsChina, the small MG4 hatch will come with batteries sourced from Qingtao Energy that contain just 5 per cent liquid electrolyte.

According to Chen, the new powerpack has already passed rigorous safety checks, including a new 360-degree puncture test.

Said to have an energy density of 180Wh/kg (up from the LFP’s 140Wh/kg), the new MG4 is rumoured to offer a range of up to 537km, although that figure is recorded on the more lenient CLTC test cycle.

MG says that thanks to its battery’s advanced new construction, the MG4 delivers 13.8 per cent better range in cold temperature as low as minus seven degrees Celsius.

Using a 70kWh battery pack, the new MG4 gets a 120kW rear-mounted e-motor, although the new semi-solid-state battery is thought to save some weight.

While it’s believed the new semi-solid-state 70kWh battery will replace the current 77kWh power pack, it isn’t yet known what has happened to the base 51kWh LFP battery or the mid-spec 64kWh battery and whether both are set for their own advanced replacements.

Significantly bigger than the current smaller hatch, the new MG4 measures in at 4395mm long, 1842mm wide and stands 1551mm tall, with a 2750mm wheelbase. Crucially, the latter is 45mm more than before for more space within, while overall the MG is now 108mm longer, just 6mm wider but 47mm taller.

The bigger size is due to the new MG4 acting as an indirect replacement for the MG5 EV in some markets.

Rumoured to tip the scales at 1485kg, despite the bigger body, the new MG hatch is a considerable 135kg lighter than before.

Within, the MG is set to introduce the firm's next-gen MGxOppo infotainment system that can integrate a smartphone interface within the car, supporting voice commands and gesture control.

There’s no word on whether Apple CarPlay or Android Auto will be supported.

Built in SAIC’s Nanjing’s factory, the launch of the second-gen MG4 is said to take place on August 5 ahead of it being rolled out in export markets, like Australia.

"MG Motor Australia is reviewing this new model and considering it for the Australian market," a local spokesperson told carsales.

"It is important to note this model is not built on the same platform as the existing MG4 and will not replace the current model."

Last month MG Australia announced price rises across entire MG4 range with values increasing by up to $3000, with the cheapest MG4 Excite 52 now priced from $37,990 – $1000 more than before despite featuring no changes in specification.

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