- 2026 MG4 officially revealed in China.
- Power is likely to be the same, despite the new car being bigger.
- It could have a semi-solid state battery.
MG has officially unveiled the new-generation MG4 electric hatch, and not only does it have a new shape but we know more about the technology on board including the possibility it could have a "semi-solid-state" battery.
Due to launch in China in September this year, the new and larger MG4 is 108 mm longer than the previous generation at 4395 mm in length, but shares the same Nebula EV platform that underpins the previous model.
The rounder, softer styling of the new MG4 replaces the aggressive and angular design of the previous model. There are short overhangs, redesigned headlights and taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels and traditional door handles.
CarsGuide understands that there is a single motor driving the rear wheels and producing 120kW powering the next-gen MG4.
A lithium iron phosphate LFP battery is expected as well, but capacity has not been revealed at this stage. What has been hinted at is the MG4 could use a semi-solid-state battery, which is found in sister brand IM Motors.
In December last year MG’s Brand Division Manager, Chen Cui, posted on Chinese social media platform Weibo that one of its new cars launching in 2025 would have a semi-solid-state battery as standard and that it wouldn't be pricey.
Lithium-ion batteries use a liquid or gel electrolyte, which has charging speed and range limitations and is potentially flammable. Semi-solid state batteries, on the other hand, use a solid material suspended in a liquid electrolyte making them more stable. Fire-risk is reduced because leakage is less likely.
They are also more energy dense than conventional batteries, delivering more driving range from similar sized cells.
These aren't the much-hyped solid-state batteries, though.
The MG4 could be the car to gain a semi-solid state battery, given that the model has been a runaway success in New Zealand, Australia and the UK. Parent company SAIC has said that it wants to use its technological knowledge to its advantage to beat its competitors.
- Laura Berry, senior journalist.