Lucid Motors, the electric vehicle startup, has unleashed a contender that seems to defy the boundaries of possibility. The Lucid Air Sapphire, a luxurious super sport sedan with over 1,200 horsepower, was officially unveiled on Tuesday. This powerhouse can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in a jaw-dropping 1.89 seconds.
A Symphony of Power
The three-motor configuration of the standard Lucid Air, after months of meticulous tuning, has been unveiled in all its glory. The introduction of the high-performance Sapphire variant was announced a year ago during the Monterey Car Week. Lucid proudly presents it as the world’s first fully electric luxury super sport sedan. While Tesla might have something to say, the addition of “luxury” certainly seems fitting for Lucid.
Revolutionary Propulsion
The new Lucid Air Sapphire features a completely reworked dual-motor setup on the rear axle, coupled with passive all-wheel drive and torque vectoring. This setup can also be combined with a front-axle unit. Together, this trio of motors can unleash up to 1,200 horsepower and achieve a sub-2-second 0-100 km/h time. Even experts weren’t expecting such power!
Remarkably, a team of experts from the renowned Hagerty had to concede the uniqueness of the Lucid Air Sapphire model after it decisively outperformed not only the Tesla Model S Plaid but also the Bugatti Chiron and a racing machine from Ducati in a quarter-mile race. The vehicle is set to hit the market very soon, with production commencing shortly. Lucid’s intent is clear: no unnecessary delays in getting it to eager customers, with the first units reaching them in the coming months. It’s crucial to note that the Sapphire will be a limited edition offering.
Photo by Lucid Air
Performance Meets Endurance
This vehicle, boasting 1,234 horsepower, also promises a remarkable range of 687 kilometers (426 miles). Thanks to its 900-volt architecture, it replenishes energy at a staggering rate. The car’s suspension and steering software have been meticulously fine-tuned to handle the intense energy demands. Systems like ABS, ESP, active suspension, and brake booster have all undergone improvements. To enhance braking confidence, the car is equipped with carbon-ceramic brake discs. Limited edition with delivery within two months
Engineering Elegance
The new Lucid Air Sapphire even features a two-dimensional set of wheels. The front axle showcases 20-inch wheels, while the rear axle boasts an inch larger. Michelin has developed a special blend for the Pilot Sport 4S tires. To reduce weight and lower the center of gravity, the entire roof is constructed from lightweight aluminum.
Photo by Lucid Air
Crafting the Drive
Behind the wheel, the expansive 34-inch Glass Cockpit system offers four driving modes: Smooth for a serene journey, followed by Swift, Sapphire, and Track. Each mode transforms the car’s behavior, steering, suspension, brakes, and maximum output. The advanced DreamDrive Pro system enhances the driving experience with a sense of security and active elements of autonomous driving. As a first for the American market, it introduces Lidar-based environmental monitoring. – Have $5 million ready?
Photo by Lucid Air
After perusing the comprehensive list of technical specifications and features, it’s evident why Lucid is eyeing supremacy in this category. These innovations are not commonly found in Tesla’s lineup. However, the disparity becomes striking when glancing at the price tag. The Lucid Air Sapphire will be available for $249,000, while the Model S Plaid stands at less than half the cost ($108,490). This significant difference underscores Lucid’s commitment to producing vehicles of distinction rather than mass-market affordability.
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