Lucid Motors has officially unveiled its next electric vehicle, the Gravity SUV, marking its foray into the competitive luxury SUV segment. Based on the same platform as Lucid’s Air sedan, the Gravity boasts an impressive 700km range, 0-100 kph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds, and a starting price of $80,000. Production is slated to begin in late 2024.
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The Gravity’s entrance into the luxury EV market comes at a time when the segment is becoming increasingly crowded, with established players like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, and BMW offering their own electric SUVs. Experts suggest that the early adopter phase of EVs is over, and there’s a growing demand for more affordable options rather than another sub-$100,000 luxury model.
Despite the challenging market landscape, Lucid remains optimistic about the Gravity’s prospects. The company has faced some financial difficulties in recent months, including production slowdowns and a plummeting stock price. However, Lucid’s partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which holds a majority stake in the company, could provide the necessary financial support to overcome these hurdles.
The Gravity’s standout feature is its impressive range of 700km, surpassing other three-row electric SUVs like the Tesla Model X (560km), Kia EV9 (370km), Rivian R1S (650km for the dual-motor version), and Volvo EX90 (480km). Lucid attributes this range to its advanced battery technology and efficient powertrain.
Design-wise, the Gravity exudes elegance with its soft curves and aerodynamic profile. A sharply angled C-pillar at the rear contributes to its sleek appearance. Lucid claims the Gravity will have a drag coefficient of less than 0.24, making it the most aerodynamic three-row SUV on the market.
Despite its sporty design, the Gravity doesn’t compromise on practicality. With a payload capacity of 680kg and a towing capacity of 2.7 tons, it rivals the towing capabilities of the Ford F-150 Lightning. Additionally, the Gravity features a “substantial frunk” for additional storage.
Lucid’s 900-volt architecture allows the Gravity to achieve impressive charging speeds. Connecting to a 350kW fast charger can add up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
The Gravity’s interior is spacious and luxurious, with ample room for seven passengers. Two large screens dominate the interior: a 34-inch curved OLED display that serves as both instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and a second Pilot Panel in the centre console.
Lucid emphasizes the Gravity’s “well-being” features, including Lucid Sanctuary, which aims to introduce tranquillity on the go, and Lucid Spaces, which transforms the cabin into a serene oasis using immersive visuals and sounds.
Production of the Lucid Gravity is expected to begin in late 2024. The company’s success with this model will depend on its ability to overcome its financial challenges and attract buyers in an increasingly competitive market.
