Lucid Motors is poised to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) landscape with its ambitious plans for their upcoming midsize SUV, which interim CEO Marc Winterhoff announced during an earnings call earlier this week. The excitement around this vehicle is palpable, as it looks to hit the market by “late this year or early next,” a timeframe that has many EV enthusiasts eagerly awaiting its reveal.
The midsize electric SUV was initially teased during Lucid’s technology and manufacturing day back in September, and they shared a tantalizing glimpse of it through a promotional image on social media. Scheduled for release in late 2026, this SUV aims to come with a price tag of under $50,000, making it a competitive option in an increasingly crowded market segment. For families and individuals looking for an electric solution that doesn’t break the bank, Lucid’s offering could be a game-changer.
Winterhoff spoke about the progress Lucid is making, indicating that they have transitioned into the advanced engineering phase. This is exciting news for prospective buyers and industry analysts alike, as it signals that the company is moving steadily towards development and small-scale production. Lucid promises that this midsize EV will integrate “leading technology and efficiency,” a claim that may resonate strongly with environmentally conscious consumers who are exploring their options.
What stands out about this upcoming model is its efficiency. Lucid has made a bold claim that it will deliver the same driving range as its competitors while utilizing a smaller battery pack. A significant part of this innovation stems from their new lower-cost drive unit, termed “Atlas,” which is currently under development. This could mean longer drives on a single charge without the hefty price tag often associated with high-performance EVs.
The teaser image gives a glimpse of what to expect, showing a sleek crossover SUV that appears to be comparable in size to the popular Tesla Model Y. During the reveal, Lucid’s CEO, Peter Rawlinson, noted that this vehicle would be aimed at similar customers who might be considering entries like the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. This positioning shows Lucid’s clear ambition to penetrate the heart of the EV market where accessibility meets technology.
While Lucid has yet to officially announce the name of this midsize SUV, they registered a trademark for the name “Earth” earlier this January, hinting that this might be the chosen moniker. This name could suggest a commitment to sustainability, aligning perfectly with eco-friendly consumer values.
From a design perspective, the midsize crossover SUV takes visual inspiration from its bigger sibling, the Gravity SUV. The streamlined silhouette and elegant roofline are expected to attract buyers who appreciate both form and function. The horizontal LED headlights and full-width chrome trim featuring the “LUCID” name add a modern touch, while it has the fender-mounted mirrors and curvy fenders that indicate the attention to detail customers have come to expect from Lucid.
Rawlinson has expressed that this midsize variant represents a “big volume platform” for the brand, suggesting that it will be designed for mass appeal rather than the high-end luxury that defined the Gravity and the Air sedan. This speaks volumes about Lucid’s strategy to reach a broader audience and solidify its place in the EV market.
In an encouraging sign for investors and customers alike, Lucid recently secured an additional $1.5 billion funding booster from Saudi Arabia, further signaling confidence in their plans and future. And with pre-production units of the Gravity SUV already rolling off the assembly line and set for customer deliveries later this year, it’s clear that Lucid is moving ahead with determined momentum.
As this journey unfolds, both the automotive industry and potential customers are keeping a close eye on Lucid’s developments. With their innovative approach and strong backing, Lucid Motors’ upcoming midsize SUV just might be the ticket to a more sustainable and electrified future for everyday drivers.
Image Source: Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock
