Solid-state batteries are going mainstream in cheaper EVs

Big EV tech in a budget-friendly car

Imagine paying less than $17K for a car that runs on next-gen battery tech. That’s what’s happening with the MG4 in China.

It’s the first mass-market electric car using a semi–solid-state battery, something experts have been chasing for years. But Americans won’t be able to buy it, at least not yet. The MG4 is changing what we thought affordable EVs could be.

This battery is thick, not liquid

Most EV batteries use a liquid to move energy inside. But this new battery in the MG4 uses a thick, gel-like mix instead.

That’s why it’s called semi–solid-state. It blends old and new ideas for something safer, stronger, and less risky in extreme temps. Only 5% of the MG4’s battery is liquid, far less than normal. That hybrid design offers a new way to get high performance at a low cost.

It drives farther than it should

You wouldn’t expect a cheap hatchback to offer over 300 miles of range. But the MG4’s battery makes that possible on China’s test cycle.

That’s thanks to a 70 kWh battery pack, which stores a serious amount of energy. In the U.S., that range may drop to about 217 miles under tougher EPA rules. But even so, it’s better than most budget EVs. That kind of mileage makes this car more than just a city commuter.

Price tag lower than a used Civic

The MG4 isn’t just futuristic, it’s affordable. Prices start around $11,000 and top out near $16,500 in China.

That’s hard to believe when most U.S. EVs cost $30K or more. And for that low price, you’re not getting a stripped-down model, you’re getting a compact car with advanced battery tech, good range, and solid safety. It flips the old idea that EVs have to be expensive.

A sleek little hatch with big plans

The MG4 isn’t flashy, but it looks sharp. It’s a modern hatchback with sporty lines and a clean, compact design.

It’s made by MG Motor, a historic British brand now owned by Chinese auto giant SAIC. The MG4 is small enough to zip through traffic but still has room inside for families. It’s practical, smart, and doesn’t scream “budget.” That makes it appealing to a wide range of drivers.

Sorry America, not for sale here

If you’re in the U.S., you won’t see the MG4 at a dealership anytime soon. It’s only being sold in China, for now.

There are a lot of reasons for that: trade rules, safety certifications, and political tensions. Cars from Chinese brands rarely make it to the U.S. market. But that doesn’t mean Americans aren’t paying attention.

Built-in safety that earns trust

One of the biggest selling points of semi–solid-state batteries is safety. And the MG4’s battery delivers where it counts.

Tests show it can handle punctures, heat, and impact better than older battery types. That’s because the gel-like material inside doesn’t react as dangerously under stress. Fires, leaks, and breakdowns are much less likely. This kind of battery stability could ease a lot of fears people still have about EVs.

Cold temps don’t slow it down

The MG4 holds up in cold climates, which isn’t true for many EVs. It’s been tested at 19°F and kept its range steady.

That’s huge for people in colder states, where battery range often takes a hit during the winter months. The semi–solid-state setup resists temperature drops better than most. You don’t have to sacrifice performance just because it’s freezing out.

China’s battery company behind it all

The battery inside the MG4 comes from QingTao Energy, a rising name in China’s battery scene. They’re pushing innovation fast.

While most headlines focus on Tesla or CATL, it’s companies like QingTao that are quietly changing the EV world. They’ve built a battery that doesn’t chase records but focuses on what matters: cost, safety, and cold performance. That’s a smart play in the biggest EV market on the planet.

Not just for high-end models

Until now, solid-state battery tech was mostly found in concept cars or six-figure sedans. The MG4 changes that completely.

It’s the first real sign that these batteries can work in everyday cars, too. The MG4 isn’t trying to break speed records or turn heads, it’s just trying to be smart and affordable. That’s exactly what the market needs.

Big battery packed in a small car

The MG4 might be compact, but it carries a 70 kWh battery. That’s a hefty power source for a car its size.

Other small EVs, like the BYD Seagull, only pack 30 to 43 kWh in comparison. More battery means more miles and fewer charging breaks. That makes the MG4 way more useful for longer trips, not just grocery runs. It also shows how smart engineering can stretch value.

China’s EV lead is growing fast

China is already the world’s largest EV market. And with cars like the MG4, it’s pulling further ahead.

The country has strong government support, cheap manufacturing, and more battery companies than anywhere else. That’s why China keeps launching affordable models that outmatch global rivals. While the U.S. is still focused on SUVs and trucks, China is perfecting the small electric car.

There’s no one-size-fits-all battery

Not every solid-state battery is chasing the same goal. Some go for long range, others for safety or quick charging.

The MG4’s battery focuses on affordability and dependability. It’s not the highest-density pack out there, but it gets the job done without costing a fortune. That’s an important tradeoff in the real world. You don’t need to break 400 miles of range if your car is safe, reliable, and affordable.

Here’s how it stacks up to Tesla

Tesla’s 4680 cells offer more energy per kilogram than the MG4’s battery. But they also cost a lot more.

The MG4’s battery has about 180 Wh/kg, while Tesla’s can hit 272–296 Wh/kg. That means Tesla gets more power in a smaller space. But the MG4 isn’t trying to compete with luxury. It’s showing that you can use lower-density cells and still make a great EV for less.

U.S. drivers are begging for this

There’s a clear gap in the U.S. market: we don’t have a cheap, safe, long-range EV like the MG4. And people want one.

Most affordable EVs in the U.S. still use older batteries and have short ranges. The MG4 proves that better options are possible. Drivers here are tired of waiting for something under $20K that doesn’t feel like a golf cart. If this car came to the States, it would sell like crazy.

Curious how other EV makers are handling battery challenges? Take a look at what Rivian’s been up to.

U.S. carmakers are in the lab

American brands aren’t sitting idle. Stellantis is testing a Dodge Charger EV with solid-state tech next year.

BMW and Mercedes already have solid-state prototypes on the road. But right now, most of these efforts are focused on luxury and performance, not price. That could change down the road, but for now, China is moving faster on affordability. Still, the research is happening.

Want to see what Dodge has planned for solid-state power? Check out how they’re charging into the future.

Would you buy a car like this if it came to the U.S.? Let us know.

Read more from this brand:

• Japanese EV SUV Promises 807 Miles On LFP Battery
• These New Batteries Could Be the Future of Electric Cars
• America’s Battery Industry Faces a New Threat From Congress

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.