Investigation
In a groundbreaking development, the MG4 EV, the latest model from the automotive giant, is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. This innovative vehicle is the first mass-produced EV to implement semi-solid-state batteries at scale, thanks to the battery technology developed by QingTao Energy.
Semi-Solid-State Batteries: A Game-Changer
Semi-solid-state batteries are a type of battery that utilise a gel-like or semi-solid electrolyte instead of the traditional liquid electrolyte found in lithium-ion batteries. This design reduces the amount of liquid electrolyte to below about 10%, improving safety, thermal stability, and structural integrity while retaining good ion mobility and manufacturability. These batteries typically offer enhanced safety by reducing risks like thermal runaway and fires, better performance in cold temperatures, and a longer lifespan compared to standard lithium-ion cells.
MG4 EV: Safety, Cold-Weather Reliability, and Innovation
The MG4 EV's semi-solid-state battery brings improved safety, as evidenced by passing stringent needle penetration tests without smoke, and better cold-weather range retention (up to 75% at –7°C with pre-heating). The battery system uses innovative cell-to-body integration with materials that enhance strength and thermal resistance.
However, its specific energy density (~180 Wh/kg) remains in the realm of conventional lithium-ion batteries, sparking debate about whether it truly achieves the full benefits sometimes claimed for semi-solid-state batteries.
Other Notable Features of the MG4 EV
The new MG4 EV also boasts a redesigned dashboard, featuring a 15.6-inch floating central screen and minimal physical controls. The interior colour schemes are inspired by Morandi, offering Rose Purple and Mountain Blue options.
The vehicle's infotainment system is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, supporting cross-platform connectivity, smartphone-based vehicle control, and gesture-based navigation. It also includes AI-powered interaction, app mirroring, and wireless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The MG4 EV measures 4,395 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, and 1,551 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, making it slightly longer than its predecessor by 45 mm.
Competition and Availability
The new MG4 EV competes with models like the Volkswagen ID.3 in China's compact electric vehicle segment. It is now available for pre-sale in China at a starting price of 10,100 USD, with deliveries expected to begin in September. The vehicle offers a range of 537km.
The new MG4 EV has been spotted at dealerships in China ahead of its debut, signalling its imminent arrival in the market. SAIC Motor has revealed the interior of the new MG4 EV, showcasing its commitment to innovation and excellence.
[1] Battery University [2] SAIC Motor [3] QingTao Energy [4] Electrive [5] Electrek
- The MG4 EV's adoption of semi-solid-state batteries provides an advantage in safety, as demonstrated by its passing of stringent needle penetration tests without smoke, and improved reliability in cold weather conditions.
- Owing to its innovative cell-to-body integration and materials, the battery system of the MG4 EV enhances both strength and thermal resistance.
- Despite offering enhanced safety and cold-weather performance, the specific energy density of the MG4 EV's semi-solid-state battery remains similar to that of conventional lithium-ion batteries, sparking debates over its full potential benefits.
- In the realm of electric vehicles, the MG4 EV competes with models such as the Volkswagen ID.3, and will be available for pre-sale in China at a starting price of 10,100 USD, set to debut in September with a range of 537km.
