MG Motor says it will launch its MG4 electric hatchback, the first MG model based on its new modular scalable platform (MSP), in Europe by the end of the year and could arrive in Australia in early 2023.
The MG4 Electric compact five-door hatchback, known as the MG Mulan in China (MG is now owned by China’s largest automaker, SAIC Motor) will initially be available in 51kWh and 64kWh capacities, enabling a range of up to 350 and 450 kilometres (WLTP) respectively.
The 64kWh battery reportedly delivers total output of 150kW to the rear axle and 125kW in the 51kWh battery, and the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in less than 8 seconds to reach a top speed of 160 km/h.
MG says the flat battery developed by SAIC Motor, which measures only 110mm in height, means the MG4 has extra interior space.
Coupled with a redesigned cooling system, the SAIC ‘One Pack’ battery system delivers ultra-high integration, ultra-long life, and “zero thermal runaway” safety protection.
Zhu Jun, deputy chief engineer of SAIC Motor, says the company’s “one pack” battery system enables maximum flexibility while using the same components.
“Under this design concept, theoretically, batteries ranging from 40 kWh to 150 kWh can be easily achieved,” he said.
It can meet the energy requirements of the A0 to D class models, providing users with flexible and diverse choices. Users can buy a small battery first, and then replace and upgrade when a longer range is needed.”
A comfortable and spacious cabin seats five while the car’s 50:50 weight distribution and reduced overall weight provides better handling, more direct steering movements, and faster cornering.
The MG4 also offers Battery as a Service (BaaS) battery swapping and thanks to its integrated service-oriented architecture (SOA) allows for over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
The MG4 is expected to arrive in Australia during the first half of 2023.
“We are currently reviewing the MG Mulan for the Australian market and exploring different variants,” said a spokesperson for MG Australia earlier this month.
“It is unlikely that we will see this model before H1 2023.”
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.