In a recent showcase at their Technology and Manufacturing Day event, Lucid Motors unveiled significant updates that are set to impact the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. The spotlight was on the upcoming Lucid Gravity SUV and a new, more affordable vehicle slated for release in late 2026.
Tesla-Compatible Charge Port for the Lucid Gravity
Lucid Motors is making waves with its commitment to a more seamless charging experience. The upcoming Lucid Gravity SUV, expected to begin deliveries later this year, will feature a native Tesla-compatible charging port, officially known as the North American Charging Standard (NACS). This move aligns Lucid with a growing number of manufacturers adopting the NACS for their future EV models.
Hyundai and Rivian have already showcased their commitment to NACS, with Hyundai’s 2025 Ioniq 5 and Rivian’s forthcoming R2 SUV both including this standard. Lucid’s approach, however, stands out—by positioning the charging port on the driver’s side rear, similar to Tesla vehicles, Lucid aims to reduce potential issues at Supercharger stations. This design choice should help avoid blocking access to multiple Supercharger stalls, enhancing convenience for drivers.
Currently, EV owners often face the challenge of acquiring a CCS-to-NACS adapter to use Tesla’s Supercharger network, or they must locate stations equipped with “MagicDock” adapters. Additionally, only Ford and Rivian have issued software updates allowing their vehicles to interact with Tesla’s charging infrastructure. Lucid’s move to integrate NACS directly into their design could set a new precedent in the industry.
New Affordable Midsize SUV for 2026
In another exciting development, Lucid Motors is preparing to introduce a new, more budget-friendly midsize SUV with a price tag under $50,000, targeted for late 2026. This new model will be built on a cutting-edge Midsize Platform and will feature the next-generation “Atlas” drive unit, designed to offer enhanced value for consumers.
This strategic move is aimed at carving out a competitive edge in the burgeoning electric SUV and crossover market in the US, where Tesla’s Model Y currently reigns supreme. Lucid is also hinting at an additional, unannounced vehicle designed to compete directly with Tesla’s Model 3, further expanding its footprint in the EV market.
Lucid’s Current Market Position
As of now, Lucid Motors’ sole vehicle on the market, the Air, remains a premium option with a high price point. The company has been navigating financial challenges, including substantial cash burn rates, as it works to grow its vehicle lineup and expand its market presence. However, with significant backing from Saudi investors who hold a majority share in the company, Lucid has managed to stay operational and has made notable progress. This year, Lucid has already delivered more vehicles than in all of 2023, signaling a positive trajectory.
Lucid Motors’ latest announcements represent pivotal steps towards making EVs more accessible and convenient for consumers, while also positioning the company to better compete in a rapidly evolving automotive market. Stay tuned for more updates as Lucid continues to push the envelope in electric mobility.
