The Lucid Air, a luxury electric sedan making waves in the EV market, has undergone a significant evolution since its debut. Like many vehicles from startup companies, the initial models weren’t without their share of issues. One prominent example is the experience reported by Edmunds with their 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring, which they described as one of the most problematic vehicles they had encountered. However, the narrative has shifted dramatically over the past three years, largely due to the power of over-the-air (OTA) updates. These updates have not only addressed initial shortcomings but have also enhanced the overall driving experience, bringing the Lucid Air closer to its intended potential. The Lucid Air received more than 60 OTA updates in the last three years.
The impact of these OTA updates is profound. As seen with Tesla’s Model 3, software-defined vehicles can undergo substantial transformations through simple wireless updates. These updates range from minor tweaks, such as new animations on digital screens, to major overhauls of critical systems like steering, acceleration, braking, and suspension. Edmunds’ experience with their Lucid Air reflects this, as the vehicle has become significantly more reliable and performs as expected, thanks to these ongoing software enhancements. The initial reluctance to drive the car, due to glitches and poor performance, has turned into eagerness, highlighting the transformative power of software in modern vehicles.
One of the most remarkable outcomes of the continuous software updates is the improvement in the Lucid Air’s real-world driving range. This is particularly noteworthy because electric vehicles typically experience a decrease in range over time due to changes in battery chemistry. However, the Lucid Air has defied this trend, showcasing the potential of software optimization to enhance vehicle performance.
Edmunds’ testing provides concrete evidence of this improvement. Their initial real-world range test yielded 425 miles. Subsequent tests showed a progressive increase, with the second test reaching 438 miles and the third achieving 465 miles. While these figures are still below the official EPA estimate of 516 miles, they demonstrate a clear upward trajectory in range performance. This improvement can be attributed to software updates that optimize energy management, improve motor efficiency, and refine regenerative braking systems. The following table summarizes the range improvements:
| Test | Range (Miles) | Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| First Test | 425 | – |
| Second Test | 438 | +13 |
| Third Test | 465 | +27 |
While the improvements in performance and reliability are encouraging, it’s essential to consider the financial aspect of owning a Lucid Air, particularly depreciation. The Lucid Air, like many luxury vehicles, experiences significant depreciation, especially in its early years. This is a crucial factor for potential buyers to consider, as it can impact the overall cost of ownership.
Edmunds’ experience with their 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring provides a clear illustration of this depreciation. They purchased the vehicle for approximately $140,000 in March 2022. As of now, a comparable new model is about $20,000 less expensive. On the used market, their specific vehicle has depreciated by roughly $57,000. This translates to a depreciation cost of over $3 per mile driven. The table below summarizes the depreciation figures:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Original Purchase Price (March 2022) | $140,000 |
| Current Price of Equivalent New Model | ~$120,000 |
| Depreciation on Used Market | ~$57,000 |
| Depreciation per Mile | ~$3 |
