Even budget-friendly electric vehicles are now using solid-state batteries.

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MG4 Electric Hatchback Gears for China Debut

A new MG4 electric hatchback is set to debut in China on August 4th. This vehicle is anticipated to be the world’s first small, mass-market EV equipped with a semi-solid-state battery. The estimated range for the MG4 is 537 kilometers (333 miles) based on China’s Light-Duty Test Cycle.

Solid-State Battery Technology

Solid-state batteries have long been considered a major advancement in EV technology. They offer potential benefits such as greater range, faster charging, improved cold-weather performance, and enhanced safety due to their superior thermal stability. However, a single battery delivering all these advantages at an affordable price is still some time away. Currently, different types of solid-state technology are being developed, each tailored for specific applications.

China’s EV Battery Innovation

China is a leading hub for battery manufacturing and innovation. The upcoming MG4 marks a new step in bringing affordable EVs with advanced battery technology to the market.

MG4 Battery Specs

British carmaker MG Motor, owned by China’s SAIC Motor, has announced that its compact MG4 hatchback, priced at approximately $16,500, will feature a semi-solid-state battery. If confirmed, this would make the MG4 the first budget EV globally to utilize this technology.

Range and Performance

The MG4 is projected to achieve a range of 537 kilometers (approximately 333 miles) on the China Light-Duty Test Cycle. This is impressive for a vehicle in its price range and surpasses the range of the BYD Seagull, which is 415 km (257 miles) according to the same cycle. The MG4 also boasts a 70 kWh battery capacity, which contributes to its extended range. MG claims the battery maintains its range and performance even in very cold temperatures (-7°C or 19°F) and has passed rigorous safety tests.

Trade-offs and Future Developments

While the semi-solid-state battery in the MG4 doesn’t offer the extended range seen in some premium EVs, it prioritizes affordability, cold-weather capability, and safety. The technology is still under development in the US, with a focus on longer range and performance rather than immediate affordability. Companies like Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz are also exploring solid-state battery technology in their upcoming electric vehicles.

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I'm Rohan Mehta, the voice behind KhelRe—a trusted and steadily growing blog dedicated to electric vehicles (EVs) in India. With over five years of experience as a tech and automotive blogger, I turned my frustrations with owning an EV into a mission: to help others make more intelligent choices in this fast-evolving world of electric mobility. I've been an early adopter of EV technology—I repurchased my first electric scooter in 2019. That experience opened my eyes to both the promises and the pitfalls of this new mode of transport. From slow charging times and range anxiety to misleading specs and hidden costs, I've faced it all. But instead of walking away, I decided to write about it. That's how KhelRe was born—a no-nonsense, hands-on blog where I share practical, real-world reviews of EV cars, bikes, and scooters. I break down features, range, performance, and pricing from a user-first perspective. I take pride in simplifying complex tech into clear, valuable insights—offering tips, ownership stories, and advice you won't find in flashy press releases or sales brochures. Whether you're a first-time EV buyer or just a curious auto enthusiast, my goal is to help you navigate the EV landscape with confidence. My motto: "EV knowledge should come from experience, not just brochures." When I'm not test-driving the latest e-scooter or comparing charging networks, you'll probably find me tinkering with my garage EV setup, chatting with fellow enthusiasts online, or sipping chai while writing my next blog post from a cosy local café.

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