MG plug-in hybrids will switch to semi-solid-state batteries in 2027

MG will equip its next-generation plug-in hybrids with semi-solid-state battery technology from 2027.

The new technology, announced earlier this year, will come first to the MG 4 EV Urban hatchback, and it has now been confirmed that it will then be used in PHEVs – first the next-generation MG ZS in 2027, then the MG HS and MG S9. 

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In time, MG’s semi-solid-state battery technology, called SolidCore, will become the Chinese manufacturer’s predominant battery technology as it continues to develop full solid-state batteries for the future.

The benefits of semi-solid-state, according to MG’s lead scientist, Li Zheng, are better range, faster charging, better performance in cold weather and, in the case of PHEVs, better low-speed, high-speed and uphill performance. 

Essentially, it makes the battery’s performance more consistent and more stable across a wider range of driving and climatic conditions, and in the case of PHEVs allows them to use a smaller combustion engine.

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These future MG PHEVs will be badged ‘Plug-in Hybrid +’ and will be offered in two different forms: a 1.1-litre model with 98bhp and 129lb ft in small cars like the ZS and a 1.5-litre version with 161bhp and 188lb ft in larger cars like the HS and S9.

Also included in the new system is a new hybrid transmission that allows for EV-like efficiency in how the drivetrain operates. 

Meanwhile, much development on the engines to reduce friction and improve combustion has allowed the smaller drivetrain to operate at more than 42% thermal efficiency and the larger one at more than 43% – far above historical standards (in the low-mid-30s).

The powertrains are also said to run quieter – some five decibels than current MG PHEVs – and achieve better performance both off the line and in-gear.

Fei Jibing, MG’s chief engineer for powertrain control, also detailed a new hybrid powertrain, badged ‘Hybrid +’, that will appear first on model-year updates for the MG 3 and ZS later this year.

This features the new transmission from the PHEVs and a larger 3.6kWh battery.

Jibing confirmed that MG would continue to develop hybrid and PHEV technology alongside EVs, with the goals of improving efficiency, boosting performance and making them quieter.

MG Motor UK’s product boss, David Allison, told Autocar that more than 90% of MG’s sales are hybrids, PHEVs and EVs, and while the brand offers pure-ICE vehicles with manual transmissions, “nobody really buys it”.

“People are now into the efficiency and that electrified feeling, particularly in the urban area that you get with a hybrid car, and that’s what people want,” said Allison.

Even so, MG remains committed to offering a full range of powertrains, he confirmed. 

Allison also revealed plans for MG’s assisted driving technology to be made less intrusive and more reliable, as he said the “jury is still out” on the usefulness of such technologies to customers.

This includes new automated parking functions and improved lane-keeping assistance technologies before MG introduces its first ‘Navigate on Autopilot’ limited self-driving technology, on highways from late 2027 and in urban areas from 2028.