New model, new platform, new class: MG Motor is set to hit the ground running in the segment for compact, full-electric hatchbacks with the all-new MG4 Electric. It’s the first MG model based on the intelligent new MSP (Modular Scalable Platform) developed by MG’s parent company SAIC Motor.
The particularly flat battery in the MG4 Electric is initially available in 51 kWh and 64 kWh capacities and enables a range of up to 450 km (280 miles) in the WLTP cycle. The new MG model is currently undergoing its final phase of testing and is expected to be launched in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2022.
With the new MG4 Electric based on the newly developed MSP, the MG brand enters the important European C-segment as a smart choice for motorists who are ready to embrace an electric lifestyle. With a length of 4,287 mm, a width of 1,836 mm and just 1,504 mm in height, the five-door hatchback is perfectly suited to its competitive environment. The MG4 Electric offers a comfortable and spacious cabin with enough space for a family of five, while maintaining sleek and sporty proportions. In addition, its balanced 50:50 weight distribution allows better handling, more direct steering movements and fast cornering. In combination with rear-wheel drive, the new MG4 Electric ensures optimum driving pleasure.
The low height of the car is made possible by its particularly flat battery. The MG4 Electric uses the flattest battery developed by SAIC Motor. With a height of just 110 mm, it’s even the thinnest battery in its class. The MG4 Electric will initially be available with battery capacities of 51 kWh and 64 kWh, allowing a range of up to 350 and 450 km (218 and 280 miles) respectively, according to the WLTP cycle.
Further variants of the MG4 Electric are planned, as well as all-wheel drive. For the larger battery, the electric motor transfers a maximum output of 150 kW to the rear axle, and 125 kW in the 51 kWh battery version respectively. The MG4 Electric accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in less than 8 seconds, while the top speed is set at 160 km/h (100 mph).
European premiere for the new MSP
The MG4 Electric is currently undergoing a final, 120,000‑kilometre endurance test under various conditions in Europe. It’s the first MG model for Europe to be based on the MSP (Modular Scalable Platform) for battery-powered vehicles, which has been developed by parent company SAIC Motor.
The intelligent, modular architecture offers many benefits in terms of flexibility, use of space, safety, driving experience, weight saving, and advanced technologies. Its scalable design is suitable for wheelbases ranging from 2,650 to 3,100 mm, which allows designing various body styles for different segments on the same platform, varying from hatchback and notchback saloons to SUVs and vans. The Modular Scalable Platform therefore plays an important role in MG’s growth strategy for Europe.
“ONE PACK” magic battery system
The “ONE PACK” is an innovative designed battery. With its recumbent battery cell arrangement, the minimum height of the battery can reach to an industry-leading 110 mm and results in a substantial increase in effective space utilization. Coupled with the redesign of the corresponding cooling system, the “ONE PACK” battery offers three major advantages: ultra-high integration, ultra-long life and “zero thermal runaway” safety protection.
Mr. Zhu Jun, Deputy Chief Engineer of SAIC Motor, says: “In the “ONE PACK” battery system developed by SAIC Motor, the projection area of all batteries on the Modular Scalable Platform is the same; the connectors related to other components are also the same. Under this design concept, theoretically, batteries ranging from 40 kWh to 150 kWh can be easily achieved. 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.”
Benefiting from the “ONE PACK” battery design, the new MG4 Electric has an edge in its class in terms of interior space, weight and safety. Due to its new architecture, the MG4 Electric offers more interior space within the same exterior dimensions. Engineers have also managed to significantly reduce the vehicle weight, which is extremely beneficial for efficiency and handling characteristics.
Ready for advanced technologies
The MSP architecture and related components are also prepared for the implementation of advanced technology. For example, the system voltage of the highly efficient electronic drive unit, which includes 8-layer hairpin technology and special oil cooling, can be upgraded from 400V to 800V to charge the battery even faster in the future.
Furthermore, the powertrain is able to support future BaaS (Battery as a Service) battery swap systems. The integrated service-oriented architecture (SOA) enables vehicles to receive over-the-air (OTA) updates throughout their lifecycle. And last but by no means least: the platform is equipped for Pixel Point Cloud Comprehensive Environment Mapping (PP CEM), which is required for advanced autonomous driving solutions.
