In 2024, the Lucid Air Grand Touring is incorporating advancements inspired by its counterparts to enhance its efficiency. Although these refinements may be subtle, they undoubtedly offer a welcome improvement, especially considering the model's reduced starting price of $109,900, down from its previous MSRP of $125,600 as of January.
One of the most notable changes is evident at the charging station. Lucid claims that through enhanced automatic preconditioning while the vehicle is in motion, the Air Grand Touring can now replenish its batteries 15 to 30 percent faster at DC fast charging stations.
Furthermore, improvements to the Air Grand Touring's batteries and motors result in decreased energy wastage as heat during high-performance driving scenarios. This ensures that the vehicle can maintain optimal performance even during repeated instances of vigorous acceleration.
While the power output remains consistent for the Air Grand Touring, maintaining an impressive 819 hp, the incorporation of these advancements contributes to its overall efficiency.
In another update for 2024, the car adopts the heat pump from the high-performance Air Sapphire model, further enhancing the efficiency of the powertrain, particularly in colder climates. Although its EPA-tested range remains unchanged at an impressive 830 km, CEO Peter Rawlinson emphasizes that customers will experience extended range and improved efficiency in various real-world conditions.
Rawlinson remarked, "The Air Grand Touring has retained its 516-mile range estimate, achieving this despite more-stringent EPA testing. More importantly, it delivers improved range and efficiency in a broader range of everyday, real-world conditions."
However, like many EV startups, Lucid has faced challenges recently, including missing its 2023 production targets and a decline of over 40 percent in its share value this year. The company seems to be affected by shifting consumer preferences, driven by inflationary pressures and high interest rates, leading buyers to seek more affordable EV options. Consequently, Lucid has adjusted its prices multiple times in recent months. The effectiveness of these strategies in sustaining the company until the introduction of the promised more affordable model in January remains uncertain.