Lucid Air Pure beach front
The Lucid Air Pure is making waves in the EV world, and after spending a week behind the wheel in Los Angeles, I can confidently say this car is not just smart, it’s potentially revolutionary. In a market saturated with electric vehicles, the Lucid Air manages to stand out, not just for its impressive specs, but for its sheer intelligence and driver-centric design. This isn’t just another EV; it’s a glimpse into the future of driving.
From the moment I picked up the Lucid Air Pure from the airport parking garage, it was clear this car operates on a different plane. My initial struggle with the “frunk” button, hidden somewhere within the vast digital dashboard, quickly highlighted the learning curve associated with such advanced technology. While my companions and I eventually deciphered the controls, it underscored the car’s complexity, almost as if it were intentionally gatekeeping its most impressive features.
Lucid Air Pure front exterior
The intelligence of the Lucid Air Pure became even more apparent when attempting to power it down. Amidst the sweltering Los Angeles heat and the blaring satellite radio, finding the off button felt like an impossible task. The car, seemingly possessing a mind of its own, then decided it was time for a software update, announcing a mandatory 40-minute lockdown. This episode, while initially frustrating, ultimately showcased the car’s autonomous nature and its commitment to staying cutting-edge, even if it meant temporarily inconveniencing its occupants. It’s a car that dictates its own schedule, a characteristic that might initially feel unusual but ultimately speaks to its advanced capabilities.
It was a call to Lucid PR that revealed the “secret button” on the key fob, a hidden command center that brought the vehicle back under control. This experience, coupled with the frequent software updates – seemingly twice every five days – reinforced the feeling that the Lucid Air Pure is always learning, always evolving. It’s a car that prioritizes its own optimization, sometimes to a degree that feels almost sentient.
Lucid Air Pure spacious interior
The brains behind Lucid Motors have a rich history in electric vehicle technology. Originating as Atieva, a battery technology company that powered Formula E racing, Lucid is now led by Peter Rawlinson, formerly the chief engineer for the Tesla Model S. Rawlinson’s influence is palpable in the Lucid Air’s driving dynamics. The Pure model, despite being the “base” version, still delivers a blistering 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, thanks to its 430 horsepower. Stepping up the range, the Touring and Grand Touring models offer even more exhilarating performance, with the Grand Touring boasting a staggering 819 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 3 seconds.
But performance isn’t just about raw speed. The Lucid Air Pure impresses with its exceptional range. My test vehicle offered a substantial 419 miles of range, a significant leap beyond earlier EVs. The Grand Touring model pushes this even further, achieving a remarkable 516 miles on 19-inch wheels. This combination of breathtaking performance and extended range truly sets the Lucid Air apart in the electric vehicle landscape.
Lucid Air Pure frunk space
Driving modes in the Lucid Air Pure add another layer of customization and excitement. “Smooth” mode offers a relaxed, comfortable ride, while “Swift” and “Sprint” modes unleash the car’s true potential. “Sprint” mode even includes a hidden “Launch Mode,” activated through a sequence of brake and accelerator inputs, revealing a playful blue bear on the digital display before catapulting the car forward with incredible force. This feature transforms the Lucid Air Pure from a luxurious cruiser into a high-performance machine, capable of delivering thrills that rival supercars. The sheer acceleration is not just impressive; it’s genuinely startling, evoking a sense of being transported into a futuristic, high-speed world.
Even with spirited driving throughout Los Angeles, the battery depletion was surprisingly minimal. After five days of exploring Southern California’s roads, the battery level barely dipped below half, demonstrating the efficiency and real-world usability of the Lucid Air’s electric powertrain. This is a far cry from the range anxiety that plagued early electric vehicles, and it firmly positions Lucid as a leader in EV technology, surpassing even Tesla in certain aspects of range and efficiency.
Lucid Air Pure driver cockpit
Beyond performance, the Lucid Air Pure’s intelligent safety features truly shine. Navigating a tight parking situation in Los Feliz, hemmed in by other vehicles, showcased the car’s advanced sensor and camera system. The cockpit display transformed into a real-time spatial awareness tool, providing precise measurements of distances to surrounding obstacles. It felt akin to having a virtual co-pilot, guiding me with pinpoint accuracy. This system instilled an unprecedented level of confidence, making even the most challenging maneuvers feel effortless. The instant torque control of the electric motor further enhanced precision, allowing for minute adjustments and escapes from seemingly impossible spots. This parking experience alone highlighted the practical benefits of the Lucid Air’s sophisticated technology, moving beyond mere novelty to genuine driver assistance.
The Lucid Air Pure evokes a sense of futuristic coolness, reminiscent of the iconic TV show Knight Rider. While lacking KITT’s voice, the Lucid Air Pure embodies the same spirit of advanced technology seamlessly integrated into a high-performance vehicle. It’s a car that anticipates your needs and responds with intelligence and precision.
Lucid Air Pure rear view
With a starting price of $69,900 for the Pure model, $79,900 for the Touring, and $109,900 for the Grand Touring, the Lucid Air occupies the premium EV segment. The upcoming Lucid Gravity SUV, priced just under $80,000, promises to extend this blend of performance and intelligence into a different vehicle format. The Gravity is projected to offer similar blistering acceleration, an impressive range of at least 440 miles, and inherit the intelligent features that define the Air.
In conclusion, the Lucid Air Pure is more than just an electric car; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to how far EV technology has come and a bold step towards a future where cars are not just modes of transport, but intelligent partners on the road. For those seeking a blend of cutting-edge technology, exhilarating performance, and unparalleled range in an electric vehicle, the Lucid Air Pure is not just a contender, it’s a leader. This Lucid Air Review confirms it: this is indeed one of the smartest, and most impressive, cars on the road today.
