Lucid's New $80,000 Gravity Electric SUV Breaks Cover in LA

First Air, now Gravity. Electric vehicle startup Lucid Motors today debuted its new battery-electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) at the LA Auto Show. The company designed the model to have, "an unprecedented combination of attributes previously unseen in a single vehicle."

The SUV is projected to have a range of over 440 miles on a single charge. This exceeds the range of the Rivian R1S, currently the highest mileage-per-charge electric SUV. It is helped by the SUV's low coefficient of drag, which allows it to slip through the air more seamlessly than a traditional model.

Lucid is positioning the Gravity as a luxury performance SUV with room for seven passengers and their gear.

"The Gravity SUV represents a significant leap forward for Lucid's world-leading technology and design. Customers will find an unprecedented combination of space and maneuverability, luxury, and versatility, all seamlessly integrated into one remarkable vehicle with the driving experience and range of a true Lucid," said Peter Rawlinson, CEO and Chief Technical Officer at Lucid in a release.

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The Gravity's comparatively lightweight propulsion system will run on 900-volt architecture and propel the car from zero to 60 miles per hour (mph) in less than 3.5 seconds, the automaker said.

"Lucid's design and engineering philosophy has always prioritized doing more with less. Gravity applies this principle to offer customers more of what they need – more space, more utility, and more range – while avoiding excess battery cells, added cost of ownership, and unnecessary weight," said Eric Bach, Senior Vice President of Product and Chief Engineer at Lucid in a release.

"We believe in pushing the boundaries of what's possible, and with a battery pack about half the size of some competitors, Gravity is an environmentally friendly, versatile electric vehicle with the spirit of a supercar."

The interior of the Gravity has been designed with eco-consciousness and a holistic human experience in mind. It's also been created as a wellness destination, offering up Lucid Sanctuary, a set of experiences designed to offer "tranquility on the go" whether driving or charging. Lucid Spaces allows drivers to turn their Gravity cabin into an oasis via a tap of a button, The automaker partnered with Mediatopia to offer guided meditation journeys in the cabin.

Gravity's second- and third-row seats fold flat offering more than 112 cubic feet of cargo space, 28 cubic feet more than what you'll find in a Toyota Highlander.

Gravity has a payload capacity of over 1,500 pounds and a 6,000-pound towing capacity. That's less than the R1S but more than a Ford Explorer.

Lucid will offer the SUV with Zero Gravity, an air suspension package.

The second row also slides and has integrated tables, which are traditionally reserved for an executive level experience package in other SUVs.

Lucid has evolved its cockpit for the new model, delivering the Clearview Cockput, a 34-inch OLED display that is designed to "float" above the steering wheel. The company will also equip Gravity with a Pilot Panel touchscreen, like in the Air sedan.

The screens will run next-generation software and will allow for over-the-air updates.

The model features a glass center console that slides open for additional storage.

Gravity will have a starting price under $80,000. Production of the Lucid SUV is expected to start in late 2024. Hand-raisers can begin indicating their interest on the Lucid website today.

"The Lucid Gravity SUV elevates the electric SUV landscape, offering a new level of performance, luxury, and sustainability," Paul Waatti, manager of industry analysis at AutoPacfic told Newsweek.

"Lucid sets a new standard in the full-size premium SUV category with Gravity's projected range exceeding 440 miles, a sleek design, seating for seven, and a starting price under $80,000 — positioning it as a compelling choice for a high-performance, luxurious electric SUV."