MG has used a dedicated technology showcase at its London headquarters to confirm a radical shift in its electrification strategy, announcing that its future plug-in hybrid vehicles will adopt advanced semi-solid-state battery tech from 2027.
The headline announcement from the UK event is the introduction of an all-new ‘Plug-in Hybrid+’ powertrain, which will debut in the MG ZS in 2027. Given that the current-generation ZS has only recently been replaced in global markets, this timing suggests MG is either fast-tracking a significant mid-lifecycle chassis overhaul or preparing an entirely new architecture to accommodate the advanced battery hardware.
The new ‘SolidCore’ semi-solid-state battery technology replaces conventional liquid electrolytes with a 3D spinel structure. MG claims this setup delivers significantly higher energy conversion efficiency, more consistent power output in extreme temperatures, and a more stable overall driving range.
This advanced battery pack will be paired with two newly-developed turbocharged petrol engines; a 1.1-litre unit producing 73kW and 175Nm for compact models like the ZS, and a larger 1.5-litre unit generating 120kW and 255Nm for heavier vehicles like the HS and the upcoming S9. MG states these dedicated hybrid engines achieve thermal efficiencies exceeding 42 per cent and 43 per cent, respectively.
Power is managed by a new transmission integrating ‘Power Split’ and ‘Motor Decoupling’ technologies. The system physically isolates the generator during pure-electric driving to eliminate mechanical drag, heavily reducing cabin noise by up to five decibels compared to existing conventional systems. In its most potent configuration, the Plug-in Hybrid+ architecture will dispatch the 0-100km/h sprint in under 6.0 seconds.
While initially launching on the ZS, MG confirmed the SolidCore battery technology will quickly expand to three new SUV models spanning the B, C, and D segments. Following its European deployment, the Plug-in Hybrid+ architecture is expected to cascade into MG’s Australian lineup, providing a highly competitive technological edge in the rapidly expanding local new-energy market. Local executives have not yet formalised a domestic timeline.
