Summary
- SAIC-owned MG may launch semi-solid-state battery-powered EV with over 623 miles of CLTC range
- The semi-solid-state battery technology is seen as a bridge between lithium-ion and solid-state batteries
- MG plans to introduce the EV in 2025 and keep the price affordable due to the special battery
- The SAIC-owned brand IM Motors has already unveiled a semi-solid-state sedan with impressive range and fast charging capabilities
- The success of the new MG EV will depend on its price competitiveness with other brands and the reliability of the battery technology.
Article
SAIC-owned MG to Launch Semi-Solid-State Battery-Powered EV
SAIC-owned MG is gearing up to launch a semi-solid-state battery-powered electric vehicle (EV) next year. This new model is likely related to another SAIC semi-solid-state EV, the IM L6 sedan, which features a special battery capable of providing over 623 miles of CLTC range.
Solid-State Batteries in Electric Vehicles
Solid-state batteries have become a major buzzword in the electric vehicle industry due to their potential to address many of the current downsides of EVs. While automakers and specialized battery companies are working to make this technology financially viable for electric vehicles, semi-solid-state batteries may be the first step before the full implementation of solid-state batteries in production cars. These batteries are positioned between regular lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, eliminating the liquid or gel electrolyte used in traditional lithium-ion batteries in favor of a solid-state material.
MG’s Plans for Semi-Solid-State EV
China’s SAIC, which now owns MG and manufactures all its cars in China, is planning to launch the new EV in 2025. The semi-solid-state battery used in this vehicle will not significantly increase the price of the vehicle and is likely to be related to the pack used in the IM L6 sedan by another SAIC-owned brand, IM Motors. The IM L6 features a 133-kilowatt-hour semi-solid-state battery pack with a claimed CLTC range of over 1,000 kilometers (623 miles) and can charge at 400 kilowatts, adding 400 km (249 miles) of range in just 12 minutes.
Competitive Pricing and Performance
MG’s upcoming semi-solid-state EV could be competitively priced to rival offerings from Volkswagen, Hyundai, and Tesla while offering more range and faster charging. MG has been successful in Europe with the MG4 EV, a rival to the VW ID.3 that offers impressive performance at an attractive price point. Consumers may be hesitant to purchase a vehicle with unproven battery technology, but the financial proposition and performance of the EV could outweigh these concerns. The new electric MG is set to be unveiled in early 2025 and will be available for purchase later in the year.
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