MG has unveiled the MG4X in China, a compact electric SUV derived from the successful hatchback, as the brand begins rolling out semi-solid battery technology — a world first in a mass-market EV — though that new technology is not yet confirmed for Europe.
Regulatory filings published by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) have now revealed core specifications for the model, including its dimensions and motor outputs.
While at first glance it appears to be a straightforward lineup expansion, the model could play a strategic role in MG’s European ambitions as the brand prepares for the next phase of competition in the affordable EV market.
The MG4X builds on the same platform as the MG4, one of the most successful Chinese electric cars in Europe over the past few years. Since its launch in 2022, the MG4 has gained traction thanks to competitive pricing, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a growing dealer network across the continent.
Dominant crossover format
The new model translates that formula into a compact crossover format. That body style is increasingly dominant in Europe’s EV market, where buyers are shifting away from traditional hatchbacks toward small SUVs.
Vehicles such as the Volvo EX30 and Kia EV3 illustrate how competitive this segment has become, with several European manufacturers preparing their own compact electric crossovers in the coming years.
Newly revealed homologation data from China shows the MG4X measures 4,500 mm in length, 1,849 mm in width, and 1,621 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm — dimensions that place it squarely in the high-volume compact electric SUV segment.
The model rides on 18-inch wheels and weighs between 1,640 and 1,755 kg depending on the variant, with a gross vehicle weight of up to 2,191 kg.
These figures make the MG4X slightly larger than some key rivals, including the BYD Atto 3, underlining MG’s ambition to compete directly in the global compact EV crossover market.
First with a semi-solid battery
Beyond the body style, the MG4X also highlights SAIC’s push to deploy next-generation battery technology in mass-market vehicles.
The Chinese-market MG4 ‘Anxin Edition’ recently became the first production EV equipped with a semi-solid battery using a mostly solid electrolyte with a small proportion of liquid components.
Conventional lithium-ion batteries use a fully liquid electrolyte, while semi-solid designs replace most of that liquid with a more stable solid or gel-like material, improving safety and thermal stability.
Fully solid-state batteries eliminate liquid electrolytes entirely and promise higher energy density and faster charging, but still remain some years away from large-scale production.
While the energy-density gains are still limited, semi-solid batteries offer improved thermal stability and safety while remaining compatible with existing manufacturing processes.
Early reports suggest the MG4X could use the same manganese-based semi-solid battery pack introduced in the MG4 Anxin Edition, which contains only about 5% liquid electrolyte and delivers a CLTC range of roughly 510 km, though final battery specifications for the SUV have not yet been confirmed.
New powertrain details
Chinese homologation documents also reveal two electric powertrain variants. The entry-level MG4X uses a 125 kW (168 hp) permanent-magnet synchronous motor, while a higher-output version delivers 150 kW (201 hp). Both motors are supplied by companies within SAIC’s supplier ecosystem.
Battery capacity has not yet been disclosed, but the versions submitted for regulatory approval use an LFP battery pack, suggesting MG could offer multiple battery chemistries depending on the market or trim level.
Next-gen tech in mass market model
By introducing them in high-volume vehicles such as the MG4 — and potentially extending them to derivatives like the MG4X — SAIC is effectively testing next-generation battery technology in the mass market.
This approach differs from that of many Western automakers, which plan to introduce solid-state batteries later in the decade, typically starting with premium models.
Deploying semi-solid batteries earlier could allow Chinese manufacturers to gain valuable manufacturing experience and scale advantages before the transition to fully solid-state technology.
The MG4X will also feature a digital cockpit co-developed with smartphone manufacturer Oppo, as well as advanced driver-assistance features, including Navigate-on-Autopilot (NOA) functions and automated parking systems aimed at improving usability in urban environments.
Below €30,000?
Pricing will ultimately determine how disruptive the MG4X becomes. If MG keeps the model close to the MG4’s price level, it could put pressure on European manufacturers preparing their next generation of affordable EVs.
Volkswagen’s €25,000 ID.2 and Stellantis’ upcoming small electric crossovers are expected to arrive around the same timeframe, setting the stage for fierce competition in the crucial €25,000–€30,000 segment.
Whether the MG4X will reach Europe with semi-solid battery technology remains unclear. But the model illustrates how Chinese automakers are combining aggressive pricing, rapid product cycles, and incremental battery innovation to gain ground in the global EV race — a combination European manufacturers will increasingly have to reckon with.
