The Lucid Gravity Touring is making waves in the electric SUV market as the American startup’s most affordable option. Priced at $79,990, it comes in at $15,000 less than the Gravity Grand Touring, offering a more budget-friendly choice for consumers looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. However, with the lower price point, some compromises have been made in terms of power, battery size, and charging speed.
The Gravity Touring is equipped with an 89-kilowatt-hour battery pack, which is rated at approximately 700 volts. It can accept a maximum power of 300 kilowatts from a DC fast charger, allowing owners to add 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. With a full battery, the SUV boasts an EPA-rated range of 337 miles.
In comparison, the more expensive Gravity Grand Touring features a larger 123 kWh battery pack, offering a total driving range of 450 miles. With a voltage rating of over 900V, it can achieve a maximum charging power of 400 kW, allowing for a rapid charge of 200 miles in under 11 minutes.
To showcase the charging capabilities of the Lucid Gravity Touring, a recent video from Out of Spec Testing revealed the time it takes to fully charge the electric SUV. The test involved a 0% to 100% charge on a DC fast charger with a power output of 300 kW. The battery was preconditioned before charging to ensure optimal performance.
The results showed that it took one hour and 14 minutes to fully charge the Gravity Touring, with the car taking in almost 98 kWh of energy instead of the stated 89 kWh. Charging times were impressive, with 50% reached in just 12 minutes, 70% in 20 minutes, and 80% in 25 minutes. However, charging speeds decreased significantly after reaching the 80% mark.
For optimal charging efficiency, it is recommended to unplug the Gravity Touring once the battery reaches 70%, as the power input decreases dramatically beyond that point. On a long trip, going from 80% to 10% should provide a usable range of around 236 miles, with a 23-minute charge needed to reach 80% again.
Overall, the Lucid Gravity Touring offers a compelling combination of affordability and performance, making it a strong contender in the electric SUV market. With its efficient charging capabilities and impressive range, it is sure to attract eco-conscious consumers looking for a reliable and stylish electric vehicle option. Charger anxiety is a common concern for electric vehicle drivers, as running out of battery power can leave them stranded on the side of the road. However, for those who like to live dangerously and push their electric vehicle to the limit, unplugging at 70% battery level could save them three minutes of charging time.
Kyle Conner, an experienced electric vehicle driver, recently tested the efficiency of the Lucid Gravity Touring on the highway with aero wheels. Despite the official range of the vehicle being 258 miles, Conner noted that he didn’t see efficiency numbers higher than 2.9 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This would result in a real-world total range of just 258 miles, making the usable range from 0% to 70% state of charge or from 10% to 80% only 180 miles.
While the official numbers for the Lucid Gravity Touring may seem promising, the real-world data suggests that opting for the smaller battery might not be the best choice, despite the lower price tag compared to the Grand Touring model. It’s important for electric vehicle drivers to consider their driving habits and needs when choosing a vehicle to ensure they have enough range for their daily commute and lifestyle.
For those interested in a more in-depth review of the Lucid Gravity Touring, stay tuned for our own test of the vehicle coming soon. This will provide valuable insights into the performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience of this electric vehicle model. In the meantime, it’s essential for drivers to plan their charging stops wisely and consider their range needs to avoid any unexpected surprises on the road.