CHINA BOASTS WORLD’S FIRST MASS-PRODUCED EV POWERED BY SEMI-SOLID-STATE BATTERY, PRICED UNDER $15,000

The world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle powered by a semi-solid-state battery has officially arrived, and it’s priced to shake up the global EV market.

At the Chengdu, China Auto Show on Friday, China’s SAIC MG unveiled the all-new MG4, calling it the world’s first commercially available EV with semi-solid-state battery technology. Even more eye-catching: prices start at less than $15,000.

The MG4 lineup comprises five trims: Comfort, Ease, Freedom, Smart, and the flagship semi-solid-state “Anxin” version, with prices ranging from $9,200 (65,800 yuan, limited-time offer) to approximately $14,300 (102,800 yuan). The Anxin semi-solid-state version is available for about $14,000 (99,800 yuan).

Built on SAIC’s E3 platform, the MG4 offers two battery options: 42.8 kWh and 53.9 kWh, delivering CLTC ranges of 437 km (272 miles) and 530 km (330 miles), respectively. Charging speed is also competitive; a 30% to 80% recharge takes approximately 20 minutes.

Inside, the MG4 is packed with tech. Buyers can select from three infotainment screen sizes — 10.25″, 12.8″, or 15.6″, with the semi-solid-state model expected to feature the largest display. The top trim also boasts an advanced driver-assist system powered by 12 ultrasonic radars, four surround-view cameras, and two additional sensors front and rear, enabling features such as high-speed Navigation-on-Assist (NOA) and remote parking.

Dimensionally, the MG4 measures 4,395 mm long, 1,842 mm wide, and 1,551 mm tall, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, making it slightly larger than BYD’s popular Dolphin hatchback.

The market response was immediate: over 10,000 pre-orders were placed within just 39 minutes of the launch. SAIC says deliveries of the semi-solid-state MG4 will begin by the end of this year, with introductory pricing available until October 31st.

This launch could mark a turning point for affordable EVs, and for the arrival of semi-solid-state batteries in mass-market cars.

All the EV Innovations Keep Emerging from China. Can the U.S. Ever Catch Up?

When it comes to electric vehicles, one country is setting the pace: China. From battery technology to manufacturing scale to charging infrastructure, the world’s largest EV market is rapidly shaping the future of transportation. The question many in the U.S. are asking is simple: Can we catch up?

China’s lead is undeniable. The world’s fastest EV, the BYD Yangwang U9 Track Edition, is produced in China, and China was the first to release 5-minute EV charging.

The country now accounts for more than half of global EV sales, with domestic giants like BYD, NIO, and XPeng pushing the boundaries on affordability, range, and software. BYD has already overtaken Tesla in global EV sales, thanks to its ability to mass-produce both batteries and vehicles at lower cost. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers are rolling out models with solid-state battery prototypes, battery-swap stations, and ultra-fast charging networks that make long-distance EV travel almost seamless.

The U.S., by comparison, lags on multiple fronts. While Tesla is declining, most legacy automakers here are still transitioning from decades of dominance by combustion engines. Charging infrastructure expansion has been slower than promised, supply chains for critical minerals are fragmented, and the scale of manufacturing has not yet matched the speed and efficiency of China’s state-backed approach.

But all is not lost. The U.S. still holds key advantages that could help close the gap. State incentives are spurring demand, while the Inflation Reduction Act is encouraging battery and EV manufacturing to return to American soil. NEVI charging funding was recently unfrozen, a rare and wise decision by the administration.

Bold companies like Ford, GM, and Rivian are making big bets on new plants and next-gen models, and startups are proving that innovation doesn’t have to come only from abroad. The U.S. also leads in software integration and autonomous vehicle research, with leading companies such as Waymo, key areas where EV technology is heading next.

Ultimately, the EV race isn’t zero-sum. China’s aggressive innovation is driving costs down and accelerating adoption worldwide, while the U.S. is developing its own strategy, built on domestic manufacturing, cleaner supply chains, and advanced technology. Catching up won’t be easy, but it’s not impossible. With the right policies, sustained investment, and a clear vision, the U.S. could yet find its footing in the global EV revolution.

This post originally appeared on EVInfo.net and has been republished by Guessing Headlights with permission. 

2025-09-01T19:50:36Z