Solid-state batteries have long been viewed as the pinnacle of the electric vehicle technology, with claims that a full charge can be achieved in around nine minutes.
Unlike a conventional lithium-ion battery, a solid-state battery consists of solid electrolytes as opposed to liquid. It would lower the risk of fires and multiply energy density, which measures the energy a battery can deliver compared to its weight. This translates to a greater real-world driving range, with even 1,000km seen as possible in some cases.
While the technology has mostly remained confined to labs and pilot programs, we are getting closer to seeing this game-changing innovation powering future vehicles.
Proof of this comes from MG, the Chinese car maker with the British heritage name, who is set to introduce a semi-solid-state battery-powered electric vehicle in Europe later this year. Claiming to be the first to do so, MG says the technology delivers better range and faster charging while improving safety.
Flexing its scientific muscle, MG recently hosted its first Tech Day in Frankfurt, Germany, where its top engineers shared details on the brand's new SolidCore battery. This technology will be rolled out across MG's electric vehicle range at the end of 2026, starting with the new MG4 Urban.
To (hopefully ) simplify, most electric cars use NMC or LFP batteries, which contain a liquid electrolyte. This liquid allows electrically charged particles to move between the electrodes, enabling the battery to charge and discharge. Without an electrolyte, a battery would not function.
However, the liquid form also creates risks. If the battery is damaged, the electrolyte can react with oxygen and trigger thermal runaway. Basically, a chain reaction where the cells overheat and can catch fire.
In addition, the liquid can boil in high temperatures or freeze in very cold conditions, so these batteries require careful temperature management, especially during fast charging or in extreme climates.
MG's SolidCore battery is 95 per cent solid composition, hence why it is not known as a full solid-state battery. Dr Li Zheng, MG's chief battery scientist, said that the SolidCore battery charges 15 per cent faster than its existing LFP batteries and performs much better in conditions up to -30 degrees.
Akin to BYD's LFP Blade Battery nail penetration test, MG showed us footage of its own drill test carried out on the SolidCore battery, which again, does not trigger thermal runaway. Breakthroughs such as this even extend to the safety of first responders following a vehicle collision and technicians working on these high-voltage machines.
First Irish deliveries of the MG4 Urban with a semi-solid-state battery should commence in early 2027. It is expected that these will be sold alongside standard LFP battery-powered versions, which currently offer a claimed range of up to 415km from its 54kWh battery. The official range from the MG4 Urban with a SolidCore battery is still under wraps, as is its pricing.
MG plans to host another Tech Day this summer in London, where hopefully more details will be shared.
