Both, Lucid Air and Tesla Model S— are impressive machines, but which one truly reigns supreme in this electrifying showdown?
Electric vehicles have been making waves in the automotive world, and two contenders stand out as flagships of the luxury electric sedan segment – the Lucid Air and the Tesla Model S. Buckle up as we dive into the details and put these EV titans head-to-head.
Range and Charging: Lucid Air Takes the Lead
The range is a significant factor in electric cars, and Lucid Air has the Tesla Model S beat in this department.
With an astounding EPA range of 520 miles on one charge, the Lucid Air Dream Edition outshines the Model S’s top range of 405 miles. That’s a considerable difference, giving the Lucid Air a clear edge for long-distance driving.
Not only does the Air offer a superior range, but it also charges faster than its Tesla counterpart. It can reach a maximum charging rate of 350 kW at some DC fast-charging stations, while the Model S falls slightly behind with a maximum rate of 250 kW.
Furthermore, the Lucid Air Dream Edition Range model managed an impressive 505 miles in real-world range tests, while the Model S Plaid, equipped with optional 21-inch wheels, achieved 345 miles. With more range, greater efficiency, and faster charging capabilities, the Lucid Air quickly takes the cake in this category.
Who won? Lucid Air
Performance: A Thrilling Tie
The Lucid Air and the Tesla Model S offer exhilarating performances that can put many sports cars to shame. With a 0-60 mph pace of 2.3 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 9.4 seconds, the Model S Plaid has astounding acceleration.
These are ridiculous figures by any standard. However, the Lucid Air Dream Edition Range model is no slouch either, hitting 60 mph in 2.8 seconds during testing.
For those seeking even more power, the Air Dream Edition Performance model unleashes a staggering 1,111 horsepower, paired with 21-inch wheels in summer tires.
While the Model S provides slightly better handling out of the box, both sedans deliver a performance that is beyond thrilling. It’s impossible to declare a loser here; this round is a thrilling tie.
Who won? Tie
Interior and Tech: Balancing Acts
Both Lucid and Tesla have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to the interior and technology.
Tesla’s Model S Plaid took some daring steps with its controversial steering yoke and touch-sensitive buttons instead of traditional column stalks. While it adds a futuristic touch, it can be distracting while driving.
On the other hand, the Lucid Air has some noteworthy flaws, such as slow responses from the touchscreen instrument and entertainment system.
Additionally, its advanced safety features, including blind-spot cameras and adaptive cruise control, have encountered issues that may need software updates to rectify.
Both vehicles offer over-the-air software updates, allowing for improvements and fixes over time. Neither takes a decisive lead, making it a tie in this category.
Who won? Tie
Pricing and Value: Model S Takes the Lead
Stepping into the luxury electric sedan realm requires a substantial investment, and both the Lucid Air and the Tesla Model S sit at the higher end of the pricing spectrum.
The Lucid Air may start around $87,400, but the Dream Edition quickly escalates to a jaw-dropping $170,500. In contrast, the Model S starts at around $105,000 and costs just over $137,000 for the Plaid, high-performance trim.
With a somewhat greater guarantee than the competition—eight years/150,000 miles for the engine and battery as opposed to Lucid’s four years/50,000 miles—Tesla edges out the competition.
However, Lucid does sweeten the deal by providing three years of free, quick charging at Electrify America stations.
While both cars can experience build quality issues, the Tesla Model S Plaid provides a level of acceleration and performance that can be considered a relative bargain. Therefore, the Model S takes the lead when you consider pricing and overall value.
Who won? Model S
Difference: Lucid Air Vs Tesla Model S
| Factors | Lucid Air | Tesla Model S |
|---|---|---|
| Range | Up to 520 miles (Dream Ed.) | Up to 405 miles |
| Charging | 350 kW max rate (DC fast-charging) | 250 kW max rate (DC fast-charging) |
| Performance | 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds (Dream Ed. Range) | 0-60 mph in 2.3 seconds (Plaid) |
| Interior & Tech | Some slow responses on touchscreen system | Controversial steering yoke, touch-sensitive buttons |
| Pricing & Value | Starts around $87,400 (Dream Ed.) | Starts around $105,000 |
| Luxury | Offers luxurious features & amenities | Known for its luxury appeal |
FAQs
Is Lucid Air better than Tesla Model S?
In some aspects, Lucid Air is better than Tesla Model S. The Lucid Air offers a more extended driving range, faster charging capabilities, and comparable performance to the Tesla Model S.
Is Lucid beating Tesla?
Lucid is beating Tesla in many ways, such as making a solid impression in the electric vehicle market, and the Lucid Air has proven to be a worthy competitor to Tesla’s Model S. With its impressive driving range and luxury features, Lucid is giving Tesla a run for its money.
Who is the new king of electric cars?
As of now, BYD Auto is the new king of electric cars. It holds the crown as the dominant player in the electric car market by giving an output of 211% in 2022. However, Lucid is emerging as a strong contender and is challenging Tesla’s reign.
Is Lucid Air a luxury?
Absolutely! Lucid Air is a luxury. Lucid Air is solidly positioned as a luxury electric sedan. It offers premium features, a high-quality interior, and cutting-edge technology, making it a luxurious and comfortable ride for discerning customers.
Final Thoughts
In this electrifying showdown between the Lucid Air and the Tesla Model S, both cars exhibit remarkable features that make them worthy contenders. The Lucid Air impresses with its incredible driving range, exceptional efficiency, and rapid charging capabilities. On the other hand, the Model S Plaid delivers unmatched acceleration and better overall value for the price.
For now, the Tesla Model S retains the top rank, but competition in the rapidly expanding market for electric cars is far from over.
