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Lucid Gravity Production Accelerates, Large Inventory Spotted

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This article details the significant progress made by Lucid in scaling up the manufacturing of its Gravity electric SUV. Through visual evidence from a drone flyover, a substantial volume of these vehicles has been observed at the production facility, indicating a successful transition from initial challenges to increased output.

Lucid's Electric SUV Production: Scaling New Heights

Aerial Views Confirm Surge in Gravity EV Manufacturing

Recent drone footage captured over Lucid's Arizona manufacturing plant provides compelling evidence of a substantial increase in the production of its Gravity electric SUV. The aerial observations showcase a remarkable number of these vehicles accumulated in holding areas, signifying a robust acceleration in the production cycle. This visual confirmation addresses prior concerns regarding the vehicle's manufacturing pace and indicates a positive trajectory for Lucid's newest offering.

Gravity's Strategic Importance in Lucid's Portfolio

The introduction of the Gravity electric SUV marks a pivotal moment for Lucid. While the company's Air sedan established its prowess in developing high-performance and efficient electric powertrains, the luxury sedan market in the United States, Lucid's primary operational base, is relatively niche. The Gravity, an all-electric SUV, is strategically positioned to tap into the significantly larger and more dynamic SUV segment in North America, capitalizing on the technological advancements refined through the Air's development.

Addressing Early Production and Sales Misconceptions

The initial launch phase of the Gravity was met with some marketplace confusion, particularly concerning its production and delivery figures. Despite positive critical reception, a report questioning sales volumes emerged, which Lucid's communication head promptly refuted. Although the exact early delivery numbers remain undisclosed, the company acknowledged past production ramp-up challenges. Subsequent clarification also debunked inventory concerns, explaining that available units were part of batched production runs that quickly sold out, confirming strong underlying demand rather than a lack of it.

Visual Validation of Enhanced Production Capabilities

The latest drone survey, conducted on September 22nd, 2025, offers concrete proof of Lucid's enhanced production capabilities. The images distinctly display hundreds, possibly exceeding a thousand, Gravity SUVs being prepped for distribution. This impressive volume suggests that Gravity units now outnumber the Air sedans in the outgoing inventory, underscoring the success of Lucid's efforts to scale up the manufacturing of its SUV model.

Commitment to Customer Value Amidst Production Expansion

In a related development, Lucid's interim CEO, Marc Winterhoff, recently announced the company's commitment to cover the federal tax credit for customers through the end of the year. This initiative is designed to ensure that buyers benefit from the incentive, especially if delivery timelines extend beyond the end of September. This move highlights Lucid's dedication to customer satisfaction while navigating its accelerated production schedule and market expansion.

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Cixi's Vigoz: A Three-Wheeled Electric Vehicle with Pedal-Powered Charging

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Cixi, a French innovator, has introduced the Vigoz, a groundbreaking three-wheeled electric vehicle that challenges conventional categorizations. This innovative design combines the enclosed structure and speed of a small car with the human-powered element of a bicycle. Reaching speeds of up to 75 mph (120 km/h), the Vigoz features an unconventional \"Pedaling Energy Recovery System\" that allows occupants to contribute to propulsion and battery charging through a recumbent pedaling mechanism. Despite its automotive appearance, its core functionality emphasizes an interactive and potentially more sustainable driving experience, catering to both utility and personal transport needs.

The Vigoz stands out with its distinctive blend of automotive and cycling characteristics. While its three-wheeled configuration and enclosed cabin might suggest it's a compact electric car, the presence of bicycle pedals firmly places it in a hybrid category. These pedals are not for direct mechanical drive but rather feed into a series hybrid generator. This system, termed \"Pedaling Energy Recovery,\" converts human effort into electrical energy, intuitively aiding in propulsion and offering a novel way to extend range or charge the battery. The vehicle's design is robust, incorporating crumple zones for enhanced safety, a crucial feature given its projected speeds.

The interior of the Vigoz is designed with a recumbent-style seat, allowing drivers to lean back comfortably while operating the pedals. This ergonomic setup distinguishes it from typical cars and even traditional e-trikes, offering a unique user experience. The concept of using human power to generate electricity for a vehicle, though seemingly incremental for battery charging, highlights a commitment to integrating active user participation and energy efficiency into vehicle design. This approach echoes trends seen in advanced cargo e-bikes, where similar generator-based pedal systems are gaining traction.

Beyond its innovative powertrain, the Vigoz is conceived with practicality in mind. It offers flexible interior space, capable of accommodating a passenger in a tandem arrangement or providing significant cargo capacity. The pass-through design even suggests the possibility of transporting longer items like skis, underscoring its versatility for various lifestyles and activities. These utility aspects position the Vigoz not merely as a novelty but as a viable option for daily commuting and recreational use, potentially reducing reliance on conventional fuel sources and promoting a more active form of travel.

As a prototype, the Vigoz has already demonstrated its capability to reach speeds exceeding 62 mph (100 km/h), with the ultimate goal of achieving 75 mph. However, its path to market availability remains uncertain. Regulatory hurdles, pricing strategies, and the establishment of a reservation system are still pending. The French company Cixi continues to refine the vehicle, emphasizing that while the technology is promising, its commercial launch will depend on further development and successful navigation of the complex landscape of vehicle homologation and market introduction.

The Vigoz by Cixi represents a forward-thinking approach to personal mobility, merging the benefits of electric propulsion with human input. This three-wheeled vehicle, capable of 75 mph, uniquely integrates pedals for energy regeneration, blurring the lines between electric cars and advanced bicycles. With its enclosed structure and focus on both performance and utility, it aims to offer a practical yet engaging transportation solution, though its public availability and final specifications are still under wraps.

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Kia Production Halted Due to Supplier Strike Affecting EV5 and Sportage Models

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A recent labor action at a critical component supplier has led to a temporary halt in production at Kia's manufacturing facilities in Gwangju, South Korea. This disruption, stemming from a dispute at Motras, a subsidiary of Hyundai Mobis, impacted the output of several key models, including the all-electric EV5 SUV and the popular Sportage. While the shutdown was brief, it underscored the delicate balance of modern automotive supply chains and the increasing pressure from workers for improved employment conditions.

Kia's Gwangju Plant Faces Production Pause Amid Supplier Strike

On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Kia's Gwangju Plants 1 and 2 in South Korea experienced a significant interruption in their operations. The cause was a partial strike initiated by workers at Motras, a vital supplier of electronic module components, which are essential for Kia's vehicle assembly. This labor action led to an immediate shortage of these crucial parts, compelling Kia to temporarily suspend production for several hours.

Plant 1, responsible for manufacturing the Seltos and the innovative EV5 SUVs, and Plant 2, where the Sportage and Soul models are produced, were both affected. These two facilities collectively account for approximately 1,000 vehicle units daily. Fortunately, the third primary facility within the Gwangju plant complex remained operational and unaffected by the strike. The exact number of vehicles whose production was curtailed due to this incident is still being assessed.

The industrial action at Motras commenced with daily four-hour partial strikes, occurring both day and night, starting on September 24. The union's primary demands center on securing full employment guarantees and achieving performance-based compensation that aligns with industry standards for automotive manufacturers. Despite the immediate impact, Kia management expressed optimism regarding a swift resolution. A company spokesperson indicated that Motras was anticipated to resume normal operations by the following day, with Kia's Gwangju plant also expected to return to its regular production schedule.

Among the affected models, the Sportage, Seltos, and Soul represent some of Kia's best-selling SUVs, demonstrating their strong market appeal. The EV5, a midsize electric SUV, is a newer addition to Kia's lineup, having spearheaded the brand's resurgence in China. The EV5 is progressively expanding its reach into new international markets, with its introduction in the UK, where it starts at approximately £39,295 (around $53,000) and offers a range of up to 329 miles. Deliveries of this Sportage-sized electric vehicle are slated to begin later this year in Europe and South Korea, with Canada and other global markets following in 2026.

Reflections on Supply Chain Resilience and Labor Dynamics

This incident at Kia's Gwangju plant serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate interdependencies within the global automotive industry. A localized strike at a single parts supplier can cascade through the entire production process, leading to significant delays and financial repercussions. It highlights the vulnerability of complex supply chains, particularly in an era of just-in-time manufacturing, where inventory buffers are minimal. For automotive manufacturers, ensuring the stability and reliability of their supplier networks is paramount, necessitating robust contingency plans and potentially a re-evaluation of supplier diversification strategies.

Furthermore, the Motras strike brings to the forefront the ongoing discussions surrounding labor rights, fair wages, and job security in the manufacturing sector. As the automotive industry transitions towards electrification and automation, the demands of the workforce for equitable treatment and protection against job displacement will only intensify. This event underscores the importance of constructive dialogue and negotiation between management and labor to preempt disruptions and foster a stable working environment. Ultimately, achieving a balance between operational efficiency, economic viability, and employee well-being is crucial for sustained success in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

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