MG is to launch a fully electric hatchback in Europe, bringing a rival to the Volkswagen ID.3 and Cupra Born.

Initial versions of the MG4 will offer up to 280 miles of range

Dubbed the MG4, it’s basically a rebadged version of the MG Mulan recently revealed in China and is due to launch in Europe towards the end of 2022.

It’s the first MG model based on the intelligent new MSP (Modular Scalable Platform) developed by MG’s parent company SAIC Motor.

The battery – said to be the flattest in its class – will initially be available in 51kWh and 64kWh capacities and enables a range of up to 271 (350km) and 280 miles (450km) respectively on the WLTP cycle.

The smaller battery variant comes with a 170hp motor on the rear axle, rising to 204hp for the 64kWh version. This enables the M4 to accelerate from 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in less than eight seconds, while the top speed is set at 100mph (160km/h).

Further variants of the MG4 Electric are planned, including all-wheel drive models.

Thanks to the ‘One Pack’ battery design developed by SAIC, the MG4 is said to have the edge in its class in terms of interior space, weight and safety.

The MSP set-up has also been designed to be scalable. Its 400V architecture can also be upgraded to 800V in the future while the powertrain is able to support future BaaS (Battery as a Service) battery swap systems. Vehicles can also receive over-the-air (OTA) updates throughout their lifecycle, while the platform is equipped for Pixel Point Cloud Comprehensive Environment Mapping (PP CEM), which is required for advanced autonomous driving solutions.

The MG4 Electric is currently undergoing a final 120,000km endurance test under various conditions in Europe and is scheduled for launch in Europe in Q4 2022.