The new MG 4X with a semi-solid-state battery costs less than $15,000

Chinese automaker SAIC has officially launched sales of the MG 4X, an electric crossover equipped with a semi-solid-state battery. With a starting price of less than $15,000, it is one of the most affordable models in its class.

The car is available in two trim levels. The first is equipped with a new 53.9 kWh semi-solid-state battery with a range of up to 510 km. The second comes with a larger 64.2 kWh LFP battery, which promises up to 610 km of range. However, according to the European WLTP cycle, the range will be more modest—around 400 km. SAIC claims that reducing the amount of liquid electrolyte makes the battery safer and lowers the risk of fire.

Inside, there is a large 15.6-inch screen, a digital instrument cluster, driver assistance systems, and integration with OPPO smartphones. Higher trim levels come equipped with 21 sensors for driver assistance and automated parking systems.

In China, the MG 4X starts at 99,800 yuan (~$14,720), and early buyers are eligible for a discount of about $1,000.