During a media session following the MG4 debut event in Beijing, executives from SAIC Motor Passenger Vehicle Company, SAIC Design, and the MG brand provided information on vehicle design, software integration, battery technology, and market positioning. Pre-sales of the MG4 began on August 5, offering four configurations priced between 73,800 and 105,800 yuan (approx. 10,100–14,500 USD).
Oppo’s collaboration
Yu Jingmin, Executive Vice President of SAIC Motor Passenger Vehicle Company, described the evolution of MG’s digital capabilities and its five-year partnership with Oppo. He said the cooperation centres on in-vehicle device connectivity. According to Yu, the Oppo mobility system deployed in the MG4 is among current industry offerings for innovative cockpit technology.
Yu noted that traditional automakers face competition from internet-native startups with advantages in direct-to-consumer channels and software development. MG’s approach is to maintain an open ecosystem, allowing partners and competitors to access interoperable systems such as the Intelligent Car Connectivity Open Alliance (ICCOA).
Design challenges in global market adaptation
Shao Jingfeng, Chief Designer at SAIC Motor and General Manager of the UK Tech Centre, stated that the MG4 includes some design elements from the Cyberster but that the overall styling has been moderated to appeal broadly. He highlighted the challenge of balancing Chinese and international consumer preferences, noting overseas buyers often prefer sharper, sportier designs, as reported by Auto-home.
Shao added that while some design aspects are more restrained, key signature elements remain. He confirmed MG’s intent to maintain a consistent design language adaptable to both regional and brand requirements.
Regarding the MG4’s user demographics, where 60% of users are female, Shao observed that hatchbacks are commonly accepted by male buyers internationally and said MG aims to increase its appeal among male buyers in China through design and product variety.
MG4 aims for technical differentiation
Chen Cui, General Manager of the MG Brand Division, said the MG4 is not modelled after any existing vehicles. While acknowledging competitors’ successes, he stated MG aims to provide differentiated technology.
Notable features include an integrated thermal management system, CTB battery structure, and a planned semi-solid-state battery.
Chen explained MG’s pricing reflects its position as a relatively late entrant to the EV sector and its effort to increase market share through product competitiveness rather than price alone.
Semi-solid-state battery technology explained
Li Zheng, General Manager of SAIC Qingtao, a joint venture between SAIC Motor and solid-state battery firm QingTao, explained the technical progress of the MG4’s semi-solid-state battery, which contains approximately 5% liquid electrolyte. He described this as part of efforts to improve energy density while maintaining safety and material compatibility.
Li noted that their approach depends on materials-level innovation and close cooperation between vehicle and parts development teams. He added that consumer familiarity with conventional lithium iron phosphate and ternary chemistries presents challenges when introducing new systems, requiring aligned engineering efforts.
Lifestyle branding and customization focus
MG plans to promote a “lifestyle brand” image emphasising personalisation and customisation. Chen Cui said minor vehicle modifications are encouraged to allow owners to express individuality, supported by online platforms for sharing custom paint schemes and interior configurations.
Space efficiency and colour options
Yu Jingmin highlighted that despite the MG4’s compact size, the vehicle emphasizes space efficiency. He stated the cabin can accommodate passengers up to 1.8 meters tall in the second row, and the trunk features a three-layer structure designed to maximize usable space.
He also described exterior colour options such as “Island Blue,” “Coral Red,” and “Clear Wave Green,” which are intended to correspond with various lifestyle scenarios.
Executive views on MG4 development
When asked about his reaction during the price announcement, Chen Cui said he was impressed by the collaborative development process behind the MG4. Although recently joining the company, he expressed confidence in the MG brand’s international potential and cited the current product lineup and engineering resources as strengths relative to global competitors.
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