Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 27 March 2026
MG Motor has taken a leap in next-generation EV technology, with plans to introduce semi-solid-state batteries to the European market by the end of 2026.
The new battery technology will debut in the entry-level MG4 EV Urban, and it is claimed that this will mark the first time a production car in Europe will have the option of a solid-state battery.
Dubbed “SolidCore”, the battery represents a significant step towards fully solid-state systems, which have been widely touted as the future of EVs due to their potential for faster charging, improved energy density and greater durability.
MG’s approach stops short of a fully solid-state solution. Instead, the SolidCore battery uses a semi-solid design, incorporating a lithium-manganese-oxide (LMO) chemistry and a partially solid electrolyte. The result is a battery with just five per cent liquid electrolyte, compared with around 20 per cent in conventional lithium-ion packs.
This shift is expected to deliver several benefits. MG says the new battery will offer improved charging performance and better efficiency, particularly in cold weather, an area where traditional EV batteries often struggle with reduced range and slower charging speeds.
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While the company has yet to confirm exact performance figures, the potential improvements could be significant for everyday usability, especially in colder climates where EV adoption can be more challenging.
Safety is also expected to improve. The semi-solid structure creates a more stable internal environment within each battery cell, acting as a protective barrier that reduces the risk of damage from impacts or thermal events, while also helping to extend overall battery lifespan.
Despite the technological leap, MG has remained tight-lipped on whether the new battery will deliver a notable increase in driving range. The current MG4 EV Urban offers a range of around 415km using a conventional lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.
Even so, the biggest gains may lie elsewhere. Improved energy density could allow smaller and lighter battery packs to be used in future models, potentially reducing costs while maintaining, or even improving, range. Faster charging times and longer battery life are also expected to be key advantages.
MG’s move is particularly notable given that early solid-state battery developments have typically been associated with premium brands and high-cost, low-volume vehicles. By contrast, the MG4 EV sits at the more affordable end of the market, suggesting this technology could reach mainstream buyers sooner than expected.
Owned by Chinese automotive giant SAIC, MG has been rapidly expanding its EV presence globally, with a focus on delivering competitive pricing alongside emerging technology.
The MG4 Urban has been confirmed for the Australian market, and will also be introduced here by the end of the year. MG NZ says to expect more details in the coming weeks.
