News that the MG4 Anxin Edition will arrive in Australia in 2026 might not have landed as a surprise, but the technology it brings with it is worth a closer look. The small electric hatch is the first mass-produced EV globally to use a semi-solid-state battery, marking a meaningful step forward in EV battery development at a mainstream price point.
While the industry is still waiting for the dramatic leap to full solid-state batteries, the MG4’s approach is more pragmatic. The semi-solid-state setup blends elements of existing lithium-ion technology with solid-state chemistry, offering improvements in safety, efficiency and charging speed without the cost and complexity that have delayed full solid-state adoption.
What makes the MG4 Anxin Edition significant?
The significance of the MG4 Anxin Edition isn’t just that it’s “first”. It’s that MG has managed to introduce emerging battery technology in a compact, affordable EV segment, rather than reserving it for premium flagship models.
It also arrives at a time when battery safety is under sharper scrutiny. New EV battery safety regulations in China take effect from July 1, 2026, and semi-solid-state designs are widely viewed as being less prone to overheating or thermal runaway.
What’s great about these semi-solid-state batteries?
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Solid-state battery technology is widely viewed as the next major leap for EVs, offering:
- Reduced fire risk
- Higher energy density
- Lighter battery packs
- Lower manufacturing costs at scale
By reducing the amount of liquid electrolyte by around five per cent compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, the pack improves thermal stability while retaining fast-charging capability.
Major global automakers including Toyota, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai and GAC are all working on solid-state solutions, with showroom introductions expected between 2026 and 2028. MG’s move makes it the first brand to commercialise a version of this technology at mass-market pricing.
MG4 Anxin Edition battery and performance
In China, the MG4 Anxin Edition is positioned as a front-wheel-drive variant, closer in size and price to the BYD Dolphin, and will sit alongside rear- and all-wheel-drive MG4 models globally.
Key specifications (China-market model)
| Specification | MG4 Anxin Edition |
| Battery type | Semi-solid-state (liquid–solid) |
| Battery capacity | 53.95kWh |
| Motor | Front-mounted electric motor |
| Power / Torque | 120kW / 250Nm |
| Range (CLTC) | 530km |
| Estimated WLTP range | ~435km |
| Energy consumption | 11.9kWh/100km |
| DC fast charging | 30–80% in 21 minutes (2C) |
| Kerb weight | ~1500kg |
| Top speed | 160km/h |
MG claims the battery can accept 2C ultra-fast charging, allowing rapid top-ups without compromising longevity.
Pricing advantage over rivals
In China, the MG4 Anxin Edition is priced at ¥102,800 (around $22,000), significantly undercutting the BYD Dolphin, which starts at ¥129,800.
For context:
- BYD Dolphin in Australia currently starts at $36,990 before on-road costs
- MG has not yet confirmed Australian pricing for the Anxin Edition
However, MG Motor Australia has confirmed a 54kWh battery version of the MG4 for local showrooms, the same capacity as the semi-solid-state pack used in China.
Interior and technology highlights
The MG4 Anxin Edition also showcases a more tech-forward interior compared to current MG4 models.
Key highlights include:
- 15.6-inch 2.5K central touchscreen
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor
- Digital instrument display
- Dual-layer centre console
- Boot space: 471 litres, expanding to 1362 litres
Advanced driver assistance features include:
- Highway navigation assist
- Automated parking
- Five cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors
- 80 TOPS Horizon Robotics processing power
Will Australia get the semi-solid-state battery?
MG has not confirmed whether the Australian-delivered MG4 will use the semi-solid-state battery chemistry, or a more conventional lithium-ion setup.
But what is confirmed is that the updated MG4 range is coming to Australia in Q2 2026. A 54kWh battery option will be offered locally and the front-drive, rear-drive and AWD variants will continue. MG’s local decision is expected to depend on cost, supply and regulatory certification.
Key takeaways for buyers
The MG4 Anxin Edition positions itself as a genuine step forward for affordable electric cars, pairing a world-first semi-solid-state battery with pricing that undercuts key rivals in its home market.
If this technology makes it to Australia, the MG4 Anxin Edition could become a compelling entry point for buyers wanting modern EV tech without the usual cost penalty. As with any fast-moving brand, there are still questions around long-term durability and local specifications, but MG continues to build momentum by offering high-value, feature-rich EVs that challenge established players in the small electric hatchback segment.
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