FINALLY YOU WILL! Practically two years after it was first introduced, we drove the 1,234-horsepower Lucid Air Sapphire in all its three-engine glory. Spoiler alert! It did not disappoint us. This EV is a masterclass in efficiency and effectivity, setting the bar for a brand new era of autos which are as quick as they’re luxurious. Watch the total video evaluate beneath.
Lucid Motors continues to realize notoriety within the electrical automobile area for its industry-leading effectivity and, in lots of circumstances, insane efficiency specs. All these awards have to date solely been given to at least one mannequin – the Air sedan.
Whereas the American automaker continues to be making an attempt to extend model consciousness to spice up gross sales of its flagship, it is not for lack of effort. All variants of the Air sedan are spectacular and provide among the finest vary in the whole {industry}, all in a classy and opulent 924V bundle.
Not too long ago we noticed Lucid launch its Air variations for the 2024 mannequin 12 months, which now features a RWD model of its entry-level Air Pure and a range-extended Grand Touring. We’ll fear about these variations for an additional day (though we simply drove each).
As we speak’s focus is on the highest mannequin in Lucid’s present portfolio and arguably all mass-produced passenger electrical autos – the Air Sapphire. This unique three-motor variant was first introduced in summer time 2022 with some mind-blowing efficiency figures. We’re speaking 0-60 mph in 1.98 seconds (from a standstill, thoughts you), 0-100 mph in beneath 4 seconds, and a prime pace of 205 mph.
In case you’re questioning why this sort of acceleration is important, firstly you are a idiot and secondly, it is as a result of Lucid has the technological capabilities to do it. This halo EV is an actual flex – not constructed for the typical shopper (it prices $250,000, in any case), however slightly serves as an train in futuristic all-electric efficiency.
I might argue it is also a nod to a different American electrical automotive maker (and each different automotive maker for that matter) saying, “That is proper, look what we are able to fucking beat that.”
It is not my job to select a winner within the equation, however my profession places me in an incredible place to check loopy rides just like the Lucid Air Sapphire and let you know, expensive readers, about them.
In case you’ve learn my work earlier than (higher!), chances are you’ll do not forget that I referred to as the Lucid workforce straight each time I reported on the Air Sapphire. questions I begged her to offer me an opportunity to experience it. Lastly, this chance offered itself to me, and I made positive to doc my actual reactions the primary time I hit the gasoline pedal…then time and again and once more. Listed below are my ideas.
The Lucid Air Sapphire is the quickest factor I’ve ever been in
We had been invited to the Bay Space to tour the Lucid Motors design studio and take a look at drive all 2024 Air fashions, together with the Sapphire. Whereas I used to be excited about making an attempt out all variants of the Air, I actually wished to strive Sapphire, and the Lucid workforce should have identified this as a result of they put me on this unhealthy boy first (thanks, workforce).
Proper out of the parking zone, the Lucid Air Sapphire’s acceleration was simple—a lot in order that I missed my first activate the deliberate route and drove about 4 miles within the incorrect course with out even realizing it. This has been a theme for me all day and I swear I’ve good navigation abilities. I simply targeted extra on getting Sapphire by way of some twisty roads and extensive open straights round Half Moon Bay.
What can I say that hasn’t been shared but? Is Sapphire quick? In all probability the quickest…a minimum of from what I skilled. Nonetheless, that is only a easy ingredient of this dynamic sedan. The complete experience is totally easy at any pace, from any angle and in any of the three driving modes – offered you already know what you are doing.
That is solely a automobile for somebody with enough driving expertise, each with electrical autos and basically. It is a wild stallion of a ship that may attempt to push you off at each flip for those who’re not cautious. I lived for it, however that does not imply I have not been spoiled a number of instances.
As you will see in my video evaluate beneath, the primary second instantly triggered seen shock in my physique language as I tensed and shortened my neck like a turtle making an attempt to cover. I believed 1,111 horsepower within the Dream Version was wild once I did skilled Air for the primary time again in 2021, however Lucid’s Sapphire Version takes it to an entire different stage.
Sure, I broke some pace legal guidelines, however how might you not when given a chance like this? Preserve your cool and do not blow the whistle; I used to be protected. I promise. Whether or not from a standstill or already in movement, the sheer pace of this electrical automobile is unmatched, providing you with the liberty to overhaul any automobile at any time and at once.
Acceleration apart, I used to be impressed with the Sapphire’s dealing with. It is sticky as hell, as evidenced by the miles of winding, moist roads surrounded by redwoods in California. The Alcantara seats and steering wheel offered numerous consolation whereas driving and you already know I had these air conditioned seats to maintain my again cool throughout my adrenaline pumping experience.
I did discover that the Sapphire’s cabin wasn’t as quiet as the opposite Lucid Air variants, nevertheless it wasn’t an enormous distinction. The truth is, whereas I examined all three of the sedan’s drive modes, I discovered myself within the lowest “Clean” mode most frequently – which was greater than sufficient pace for me. In case you at all times drive this factor in Sapphire mode, you are both a lunatic otherwise you’re in Method E… or each.
This is among the uncommon circumstances in all of my rides the place it is tough to convey how spectacular the Lucid Air Sapphire’s drivetrain is. It is one thing it’s important to expertise for your self. To facilitate my demonstration of its energy, I’ve put collectively a small video of my expertise, full with expressions of worry, thrill, and pure exhilaration.
The Lucid Air Sapphire is obtainable now for a worth of $249,000. Right here is my video in your viewing pleasure:
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