Karmactive Team
Lucid Motors is planning a major expansion with three new midsize electric vehicles, starting with the Earth SUV targeted for late 2026. This marks the company’s push into more affordable market segments, challenging Tesla’s popular Model Y and Model 3.
CEO Marc Winterhoff recently revealed impressive cost-saving achievements for the upcoming Earth model. Winterhoff said the bill of materials for the first midsize model is roughly half that of some U.S. rivals, and its parts count is lower than the new Tesla Model Y.
The Earth will be just the first of three models sharing a common platform. Following the standard Earth SUV in late 2026, Lucid plans a ruggedized variant inspired by the recently unveiled Gravity X concept, likely arriving in early 2027. A third body style will follow about 18 months later, around late 2028.
While Lucid hasn’t officially confirmed Earth as the model name, trademark filings strongly suggest it. The company is targeting a starting price around $50,000, positioning it directly against Tesla’s offerings. Winterhoff made it clear Lucid doesn’t plan to enter the “low-cost space” below this price point.
The Earth’s competitive pricing will rely heavily on Lucid’s efficiency strategy. By using highly efficient motors, including the new 335-hp Atlas motor, alongside aerodynamic bodywork and low-rolling-resistance components, Lucid aims to deliver competitive range with smaller, less expensive battery packs than competitors require.
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Another key advantage comes from manufacturing improvements. Winterhoff claimed the Earth will have fewer parts than the new Tesla Model Y, reflecting significant design optimization. Production is planned at Lucid’s Arizona plant and at the AMP‑2 facility in Saudi Arabia, which will transition from semi‑knock‑down to full production mid‑decade.
Lucid’s announced Uber robotaxi program will use the Gravity SUV with Nuro’s autonomous system; future midsize models could also be adapted. This suggests the platform is being engineered with fleet durability and total cost of ownership advantages in mind.
However, financial challenges loom large. Winterhoff confirmed current funding only lasts into the second half of 2026, meaning “additional funds will be needed” to launch the midsize lineup. The slow production ramp of the Gravity SUV has strained the company’s resources, and the upcoming phase-out of federal EV tax credits at the end of September adds further pressure.
Analysts expect Lucid’s majority stakeholder, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (holding roughly 60–67%), could provide additional funding.
Despite these challenges, Lucid remains committed to its electric future. As the industry faces an EV sales growth slowdown in the U.S., Winterhoff remains confident: “The negative sentiment is a passing phase. We are 100% convinced EVs are the way to go and the switch will continue.”
