The race to bring next-generation battery technology into mass-market electric vehicles is accelerating, and SAIC Motor appears determined to stay ahead of the curve. After launching what it called the world’s first mass-produced EV using a semi-solid-state battery last year, the company is now expanding the technology into a new model — the upcoming MG 4X.
The original MG4 Electric debuted in China in late 2025 and quickly gained attention for combining competitive pricing with emerging battery technology. While standard versions use lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries with capacities of 42.8 kWh and 53.95 kWh, the more advanced variant replaces the traditional battery chemistry with a semi-solid manganese-based lithium-ion pack. That configuration offers a CLTC range of around 530 km while promising improved safety and longer battery life.
Now SAIC is extending that technology to the MG 4X — an SUV version of the MG4 designed to appeal to buyers who prefer the higher driving position and practicality of a crossover. Although the company has not yet released full specifications, it confirmed that the MG 4X will also use a semi-solid-state battery and deliver a starting range of roughly 510 km under CLTC testing.
Visually, the new model appears slightly larger and more upright than the hatchback, adopting a shape typical of compact electric SUVs. The current MG4 measures roughly the same size as popular models like the BYD Dolphin and Volkswagen ID.3, so the 4X could potentially compete with small electric crossovers in a similar footprint.
Inside, the MG 4X is expected to follow the design philosophy already introduced in the updated MG4. That means a highly digital cabin with a large central touchscreen — likely around 15.6 inches — advanced driver-assistance systems, and a range of connected features aimed at younger buyers.
What makes the vehicle particularly interesting is the battery technology itself. Semi-solid-state batteries are often viewed as an intermediate step between traditional lithium-ion and fully solid-state batteries. By reducing the liquid electrolyte content to around 5%, SAIC claims the battery can significantly lower fire risks while improving cycle life and durability.
According to company testing, the battery even passed extreme needle-penetration tests without smoke, fire, or explosion — a benchmark safety scenario designed to simulate severe internal damage.
Final perspective: The MG 4X illustrates how quickly Chinese manufacturers are bringing advanced battery technologies into mainstream vehicles. While semi-solid-state batteries are still evolving, deploying them in affordable mass-market EVs could accelerate industry adoption. If SAIC manages to keep prices competitive while delivering reliable performance, the MG 4X could become another strong contender in the rapidly expanding global electric SUV segment.
