MG Set To Launch Solid-State Battery EV In 2025

MG, a subsidiary of Chinese automotive giant SAIC, is set to introduce an electric vehicle (EV) equipped with a solid-state battery as early as Q2 2025, which positions MG at the forefront of the race to bring solid-state battery technology to the mass market.

Yu Jingmin, Deputy General Manager of SAIC Passenger Vehicle, unveiled in an interview that SAIC’s self-developed solid-state battery will debut in an MG model. As solid-state batteries are widely regarded as the next major breakthrough in EV technology, they offer several advantages over current lithium-ion batteries including higher energy density, potentially longer driving ranges, improved safety, and faster charging times.

SAIC envisions that solid-state batteries could eventually be up to 30% cheaper than current lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries, potentially leading to more affordable EVs. As of now, specific details about the EV remain undisclosed but speculations from news media have led to its possibly being the Cyber GTS, which was revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed earlier in the year.

While the exact specifications of MG’s solid-state battery remain under wraps, it may share similarities with the ‘Lightyear’ battery recently showcased by IM Motor, another SAIC brand. This battery delivers an energy density of 368 Wh/kg, enabling a range of 1,083 km (672 miles) on the Chinese CLTC testing cycle and delivering up to 401 km (249 miles) of range in just 12 minutes of fast charging.

As SAIC’s solid-state batteries align with broader Chinese policy initiatives, the China All-Solid-State Battery Collaborative Innovation Platform (CASIP) consortium, aims to develop and produce competitive solid-state batteries and establish a supply chain by 2030.

Moreover, MG is preparing to launch the MG S5 electric SUV in November 2024. This compact SUV, which will initially use LFP batteries, is projected to hit the Chinese market with both single- and dual-motor options. Plans are in motion to introduce the S5 to the European market by the end of 2025.

The MG S5, likely sharing a platform with the MG 4, measures 4476mm in length, 1849mm in width, and 1621mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2730mm. It features a 125 kW electric motor mounted on the rear axle and weighs between 1615 and 1740 kg.

As MG aims to lead in the EV landscape with solid-state batteries, the industry will be watching with keen interest depending on the successful implementation of solid-state battery technology that may offer buyers improved performance, safety, and affordability.

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