MG Reveals New Small Electric SUV with “Liquid-Solid State Battery”

Why It Matters

The 4X could reshape the affordable EV segment by pairing cutting‑edge battery chemistry with a sub‑$25k price point, pressuring rivals and accelerating mass‑market adoption. Its launch also signals MG’s intent to leverage Chinese manufacturing for global growth.

Key Takeaways

• MG 4X priced under A$22,000 (~$14.5k) in China
• Liquid‑solid state battery offers 54 kWh capacity and 400 km WLTP range
• Top‑spec model uses 150 kW motor, 0‑100 km/h in ~8 seconds
• Exports slated for 2026, potential Australian price under A$35,000 (~$23k)
• Shared design cues with MG4 Urban and MG S5 streamline production

Pulse Analysis

MG’s 4X marks a strategic push into the ultra‑affordable electric SUV market, leveraging a liquid‑solid state battery that blends 95% solid electrolyte with a liquid component. This hybrid chemistry promises higher energy density and improved safety compared with conventional lithium‑ion packs, while keeping costs low enough to support a sub‑$15k price tag in China. By introducing a 54 kWh pack capable of roughly 400 km on the WLTP cycle, MG aims to dispel the myth that low‑cost EVs must sacrifice range, positioning the 4X as a practical family vehicle for urban commuters.

From a specifications standpoint, the 4X offers two motor options: a 125 kW rear‑mounted unit for everyday driving and a 150 kW variant that propels the SUV from 0‑100 km/h in about eight seconds. The larger 64 kWh battery, supplied by CATL, adds roughly 100 km of range, giving buyers flexibility between cost and capability. Interior design mirrors MG’s recent models, featuring a minimalist cockpit, a 10.25‑inch driver‑focused display, and reduced physical controls, which helps keep production complexity and pricing in check. The anticipated Australian launch price under A$35,000 (≈$23k) would make the 4X one of the cheapest EVs on the market, directly challenging offerings from BYD, Hyundai and Nissan.

The broader market implications are significant. By exporting the 4X from its Chinese factories starting in 2026, MG can capitalize on economies of scale and meet growing demand in regions where price sensitivity remains high. The vehicle’s competitive pricing and solid‑state battery technology could accelerate EV adoption in Australia and other emerging markets, nudging the overall industry toward more affordable, high‑density battery solutions. As governments tighten emissions targets, the 4X’s blend of cost, range, and safety may set a new benchmark for entry‑level electric SUVs, prompting legacy automakers to rethink their pricing strategies and battery roadmaps.