The MG engine family is getting a new addition in the fourth quarter of 2022: the MG4 Electric. The all-electric hatchback is the first to be based on the new MSP platform.
MG4 Electric
MG Motor
Chinese automaker MG Motor is adding a compact model to its electric portfolio with the MG4 Electric. The MG4 Electric hatchback is scheduled for market launch across Europe in fall 2022. The MG4 Electric is MG Motor’s first model based on the new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) from parent company SAIC Motor. Its scalable design is suitable for wheelbases from 2650 to 3100 mm. Hatchbacks and notchbacks can be built on this basis, as can SUVs and vans, according to the automaker.
The MG4 Electric five-door hatchback is 4287 mm long, 1836 mm wide and 504 mm high. The front end features LED headlights and sharp lines. Upright, forward-slanting turn signals are part of the dynamic lines above the front splitter. A two-piece roof spoiler marks the end of the two-tone roof, visually extending the line of the entire vehicle and designed to improve airflow. The cockpit was designed to maximize space with lightweight, slim instrument panels and controls. The floating center console design integrates features such as a smartphone storage area. A rear-wheel drive system and 50:50 weight distribution are said to provide driving pleasure.
All-wheel drive in planning
The low vehicle height is said to have been made possible by particularly flat batteries. The MG4 Electric uses the most compact battery developed by SAIC Motor in terms of overall height. With a height of 110 mm, it is currently the thinnest in its class, according to MG Motor. Initially, the MG4 Electric will be available with battery capacities of 51 kWh and 64 kWh, which are expected to provide a range of up to 350 km and 450 km, respectively, in the WLTP cycle.
Further variants of the MG4 Electric are being planned, as is an all-wheel drive system. In conjunction with the larger battery, the electric motor transmits a maximum output of 150 kW to the rear axle, compared with 125 kW for the 51 kWh battery version. The MG4 Electric is said to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 8 s, with a top speed of 160 km/h.
"One Pack" battery system saves space
Called the "One Pack” battery system, MG Motor says it is particularly space-saving and offers "ultra-high integration, ultra-long life and 'Zero Thermal Runaway' protection". Zhu Jun, Deputy Chief Engineer of SAIC Motor, explains, "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 connections to other components are also identical. This concept theoretically allows batteries with a capacity of 40 kWh to 150 kWh to be easily realized. It can meet the energy requirements of models in classes A0 to D and offers users a flexible and diverse choice. Customers can initially purchase a small battery and then replace or upgrade it when a longer range is required."
In perspective, the system voltage of the electronic drive unit, which includes eight-layer hairpin technology and a special oil cooling system, is said to be upgradeable from 400 to 800 V.