Lucid’s Next Chapter
Lucid, the California-based startup luxury car maker, currently makes the longest-range EV in the U.S., the Air sedan, which is manufactured in Arizona. The Lucid Air has received critical acclaim for its incredible performance, fluid, aerodynamic styling, and incredible range – and now the company is applying its talents to an SUV. The new Lucid Gravity builds on the technology of the Lucid Air to create what the company calls is an SUV without compromise: space for up to seven, high performance, and a company-EPA estimated range of over 440 miles.
Lucid Gravity: Performance and Range
Making its debut at the Los Angeles auto show in November, the Lucid Gravity is built on an all-new platform which the company says has been designed from the ground up as an electric SUV. It features the latest version of the company’s ultra-compact electric drivetrain, including what it says are the most power-dense EV motors in production. Going a step beyond the top-of-the-line 800-volt architectures used in the best EVs, the Gravity has a 900-volt architecture for lighter weight and faster charging.
Performance is prodigious. Lucid claims that the Gravity will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 3.5 seconds, and will also provide a payload capacity of over 1,500 pounds and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. An optional air suspension package lets the gravity adapt to various types of driving terrain – letting it lower itself on the highway for improved efficiency and range, and also raise itself for maximum off-road ability.
Not only is the Lucid Gravity fast, it is also remarkably efficient, and sets new standards for SUVs. While the company has not yet shared the size of its battery pack, Lucid says the Gravity’s battery is less than half the size of comparable SUVs – making it lighter and more sustainable. Yet thanks to efficiency measures throughout the vehicles, range is claimed to be more than 440 miles EPA estimated. Charging capability is similarly impressive, that 900-volt architecture enabling drivers to add up to 200 miles of range EPA estimated in just 15 minutes, on the right charger.
“Gravity will take our customers farther with less batteries and therefore using less precious energy,” said Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson. “Its smaller, lighter, and higher technology battery pack means fewer precious metals and minerals, less energy to charge, less electricity consumed, less pressure upon the grid, and a lighter weight and more dynamic vehicle.”
Modern, Sustainable Design
One reason that the Gravity is so efficient is its aerodynamically-sculpted body. Despite its high ground clearance, the coefficient of drag is less than 0.24 – far better than any SUV on the market and better than most low-slung, sleek EV sedans. Yet the Gravity still has a powerful presence, with a large front trunk, muscular shoulders, and a sporty rear spoiler.
Inside, the Gravity is spacious and open, with lots of room for passengers and their cargo. The second and third rows of seats are easy to fold flat, creating more than 112 cubic feet of usable cargo space when needed. The second row seats slide fore and aft, and also integrate convenience tables. The third row offers remarkable legroom, way more than other three-row SUVs, thanks Lucid’s compact EV drive units and no fuel tank.
Up front, a unique 34-inch curved display further evolves the interface introduced on the Lucid Air sedan. A floating “pilot panel” has physical controls on a quick-access touch bar, and there’s a new glass center console that slides open to reveal more storage. Over-the-air updates keep the software current even as the vehicle ages.
Inside the Gravity, driver and passengers are treated to a true luxury experience. The fit and finish is exceptional, and the materials are beautiful to look at and touch. Yet, every part has been created with sustainability in mind, most made from recycled and sustainable materials. A new feature is “Lucid Sanctuary,” which owners can activate to create a more tranquil environment on the go or while charging. A tap on the screen activates lighting, audio, and other cues to create a soothing atmosphere. When stopped, there is even an available guided meditation experience.
Lucid Gravity: Pricing and Availability
Production of the Lucid Gravity won’t start until late 2024. The company has yet to release final pricing but says that the Gravity will be competitively priced with other premium SUVs. Starting MSRP is claimed to be under $80,000, and the company is taking online reservations now at its website.
