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Lucid’s $50,000 SUV Could Be Tesla and Rivian’s Worst Nightmare

Lucid has confirmed plans for a mid-size electric SUV with a starting price of about $50,000, slotting beneath the Gravity, while targeting the Tesla Model Y and upcoming Rivian R2. The teaser image reveals little more than a silhouette, but it signals the start of what could be Lucid’s most important product yet. That said, we have some concerns, especially considering the company recently suffered a $790 million loss.

The Plan of Action

Lucid

The SUV will ride on a new midsize platform designed to cut costs and reach a wider audience. Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff revealed at the Munich Motor Show that it will be the first in a trio of models. A rugged off-road version inspired by the Gravity X Concept is expected in 2027, followed by a sedan closer to 2028. Lucid has trademarked the name “Earth,” which could be used for the SUV, although this has not been confirmed. Production is planned for the company’s AMP-2 factory in Saudi Arabia, with the first models expected on the road by early 2027.

Rivals in the Crosshairs

Tesla Model Y

Tesla

The R2 SUV takes shape as Rivian streamlines operations to ensure a successful launch.

Rivian

By entering the $50,000 range, Lucid is stepping directly into Tesla Model Y territory and positioning itself slightly above Rivian’s R2, expected to start at $45,000. The competition is broader still. Jeep is preparing the Recon, Volkswagen has the ID.4, and Hyundai and Kia continue to strengthen their lineup with the Ioniq 5 and EV6. Lucid’s advantage lies in its reputation for efficiency and advanced powertrains. If it can deliver those qualities at a competitive price, the SUV has the potential to stand out in one of the most crowded and cutthroat EV segments.

Too Good to Be True?

2026 Lucid Air

Lucid

The $50,000 target is ambitious. Lucid’s first model, the Air sedan, launched at $77,400 and today starts at $69,900. That drop shows the company can lower prices, but it also highlights volatility. Winterhoff has admitted that Lucid only has funding secured through the second half of 2026, with additional capital required to bring the SUV to market. At the same time, Lucid has shown it values its customers. Earlier this year, it effectively extended the $7,500 federal EV tax credit by covering the cost itself, allowing buyers to still benefit. Even so, questions remain. Can Lucid deliver a true $50,000 SUV at scale while rivals close in on the same segment? If they pull it off, this midsize SUV could lead Lucid to become the market leader.



from Autoblog News https://ift.tt/LMxD5Vl

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