Lucid Motors has developed a proprietary “boost” technology, though it has not disclosed specific details to WIRED. This technology allows the company to increase incoming 500-volt power to match its battery pack’s 926 volts. It is only mentioned that the rear motor unit is used in this process, likely functioning as a DC-DC inverter. This boost function enables the delivery of up to 225 kW from a v3 Supercharger.
Additionally, Lucid has repositioned the Gravity’s charge-port door from the left-front fender to the left rear, a configuration similar to current Tesla cars, thus enabling the use of Tesla’s v3 Superchargers with short cables. While the preproduction vehicles at a recent drive event showcased ports in both locations, the consumer versions of the Gravity are equipped with a NACS connector along with a CCS-NACS adapter. Lucid has collaborated with Tesla to ensure seamless software integration, allowing for automatic authentication and billing with Tesla’s Plug and Charge functionality at their chargers.
Lucid has also introduced an innovative solution to maintain the health of the 12-volt batteries used in the Gravity. A “Micro DC-DC converter” is employed to trickle-charge these batteries from the traction battery, which significantly prolongs their lifespan compared to traditional methods that involve periodic recharging. The vehicle is equipped with two 12V batteries for redundancy, ensuring that it can safely park at the roadside even if one battery is compromised in a crash.
According to Lucid, the sensor suite in the Gravity comprises 12 exterior and two interior cameras, five radars, one lidar, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, aiming to enable Level 3 autonomy. The company is gradually releasing some premium Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features through over-the-air updates. The complete feature suite, DreamDrive 2 Pro, is anticipated to be delivered in the fall, including hands-free enhanced cruise control and a unique “Curb Rash Alert” that warns the driver of potential wheel scrapes against curbs.
In terms of design, Lucid has capitalized on the packaging possibilities that electric vehicle (EV) architecture offers, adopting a short beveled nose and a longer cabin layout. The vehicle features large rear doors and easy access to the third-row seating, accommodating even tall passengers comfortably.
Lucid’s focus on reducing drag has resulted in a quoted drag coefficient of 0.24 for the Gravity, impressive for a vehicle of its size. The design emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency, complemented by a light weight of approximately 6,000 pounds due to the use of aluminum construction. This contributes to an efficiency of up to 3.6 miles/kWh, translating to a range of 450 miles from a 123-kWh battery pack. Efficiency varies with wheel size and passenger configuration, with smaller wheels and fewer seats yielding better results.
During a test drive in Los Olivos, California, a seven-seat Gravity model equipped with 20- and 21-inch wheels demonstrated 2.22 miles/kWh, though this occurred under spirited driving conditions. The vehicle’s performance was evaluated across three drive modes: Smooth (normal), Swift (sport), and Sprint (fastest). Smooth mode provided a moderately busy ride, while Swift offered more controlled handling. Sprint resembled a more “German” driving experience. Although the team alternated mainly between the latter two modes, the distinctions among these settings were subtler compared to other EVs previously tested by WIRED.
