MG to equip plug‑in hybrid SUVs with SolidCore semi‑solid batteries

MG, the automotive brand owned by China’s SAIC Motor, announced that its upcoming plug‑in hybrid SUVs will use SolidCore semi‑solid batteries. The batteries contain only about 5 % liquid electrolyte, employ a lithium‑manganese chemistry and are developed with QingTao Energy. MG says the cells can deliver higher power, improved energy efficiency and stable performance in low‑temperature conditions.

The new hybrid platform, called Plug‑in Hybrid+, will pair the battery system with turbocharged 1.1‑litre and 1.5‑litre gasoline engines that achieve thermal efficiencies above 42 % and 43 % respectively. Power is primarily supplied by the electric motor at low speeds, with the engine assisting at higher speeds. An updated transmission automatically balances the contributions of the electric and gasoline drives, and a system that fully disconnects the generator during electric‑only cruising reduces mechanical friction and cabin noise by up to 5 dB.

MG plans to launch the technology on a new generation of B‑, C‑ and D‑segment SUVs, beginning with the ZS Plug‑in Hybrid+ model, with initial market entry slated for 2026‑2027. No final model names or battery capacities have been disclosed.