2026 Lucid mid-size SUV to outshine the Tesla Model Y-fighter’s tech and efficiency

September 13, 2024September 12, 2024 John Mahoney 11423 Views Lucid australia, lucid EV, lucid suv

Lucid Motors has given us a glimpse of its first mainstream model that will go on sale in 2026, and announced this luxury mid-size SUV will be priced from US$50,000 ($A75,000) in the US market.

Confirming production will commence in late 2026, the Lucid mid-sizer has been created as a direct rival for the global best-selling Tesla Model Y, as well as more expensive German EVs from the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Built on an all-new mid-size platform, the Lucid SUV is set to be as state-of-the-art as the firm’s other models, including the 920kW Air Sapphire and latest Gravity SUV.

It will also come powered with the US brand’s next-generation Atlas drive unit that is claimed by the car-maker’s CEO, Peter Rawlinson, to “embody all our learning.”

Instead of leading the segment for range, the Lucid would match the best in class for distance travelled on a single charge, but would use a much smaller battery and have greater efficiency.

In other words, the new Lucid SUV will “go farther with less” said Rawlinson.

The shadowy tease, meanwhile, shows how the Lucid will come with a curvy streamlined body that is likely to see it sit lower than more conventional mid-size SUVs.

Once launched, a Tesla Model 3-rivalling sedan is also tipped to arrive, although it’s unclear on that car’s timings.

Rumours suggest the new unnamed SUV will be produced for right-hand drive, with the US firm already expanding into European markets like Germany and Switzerland with the ultimate aim of selling cars in the UK, says its boss.

2022 Lucid Air. — Lucid Air – the range champion limo has still not made the move Down Under.

Lucid has not yet revealed a timeline for its right-hand drive model, although in recent interviews Rawlinson said the firm was considering using a third-party to carry out right-hand drive conversions, which could open the door to Australia.

It’s not the first time Lucid has flirted with launching here. In late 2020, Australian customers were invited to place cash deposits of between $400-$1400 for the Lucid Air limo ahead of deliveries that were supposed to start in 2022.

Those plans were then shelved as the firm concentrated on production for the North American market.