Electric Cars

Lucid is preparing to introduce its third model, the Cosmos, an electric SUV, with recent European patent filings offering a glimpse into its design. The vehicle is characterized by a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and an anticipated launch price below $50,000 in 2027. These design elements suggest a strong emphasis on efficiency and a modern aesthetic.

Upcoming Lucid Cosmos SUV Design Unveiled Through Patent Filings

Earlier this year, the electric vehicle manufacturer Lucid unveiled plans for three new utility vehicles, all of which will utilize a new mid-size platform and be positioned below the larger Gravity SUV. The first in this series, named Cosmos, has now had its design previewed through patent images submitted to the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). These images, filed under Lucid's original company name, Atieva Inc., align with earlier teaser visuals and descriptions of a Cosmos prototype shown to investors in March. The patent, while not explicitly labeled "Cosmos," strongly suggests the visual identity of the forthcoming model.

The Cosmos maintains Lucid's established design language, featuring a futuristic and elegant profile. Its front end showcases narrow headlamps positioned beneath prominent Lucid branding and a trapezoidal lower grille, likely integrating sensors for advanced driver-assistance systems. The sculpted hood includes distinct carved sections, and flowing lines grace the vehicle's sides. A notably dramatic sloping roofline extends towards the rear, culminating in a spoiler above the back window. In contrast to Lucid's Air and Gravity models, the Cosmos's taillights are remarkably slender and do not form a continuous light bar across the rear; instead, a large Lucid badge adorns the rear hatch. This design is engineered for exceptional aerodynamics, with Lucid targeting an impressive 0.22 drag coefficient.

While Lucid classifies its underpinning architecture as mid-size, the Cosmos is expected to compete in the compact SUV segment, challenging rivals such as the Tesla Model Y and Rivian R2. The vehicle will incorporate an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling rapid recharging, and is projected to offer an electric range exceeding 300 miles. The official reveal of the Cosmos is anticipated this summer, with market availability slated for 2027 and an initial price point under $50,000.

The emergence of the Lucid Cosmos patent images provides an exciting look into the brand's future direction. The commitment to aerodynamic efficiency and a sleek, modern design language is evident, suggesting a focus on both performance and aesthetic appeal. This upcoming model, positioned within the compact SUV market, indicates Lucid's strategy to expand its portfolio and reach a broader consumer base with a more accessible price point. The technological advancements, particularly the 800-volt architecture and extensive range, highlight Lucid's dedication to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle capabilities. It will be compelling to observe how the Cosmos performs against established competitors and contributes to the evolving landscape of electric mobility.

Anticipation for the next generation of high-performance vehicles often centers on the powertrain, and the BMW M3 was widely expected to adopt a plug-in hybrid system, following trends seen in models like the M5, Audi RS5, and Mercedes-AMG C63. However, a surprising announcement from BMW M's leadership has confirmed a different direction for the M3, much to the delight of traditional enthusiasts. The upcoming M3 will retain a pure combustion engine, explicitly avoiding a plug-in hybrid configuration, a decision articulated by BMW M chief Frank van Meel during the 24 Hours of Le Mans event. This commitment to 'powertrain purity' is intended to maintain the M3's distinctive performance identity, differentiating it from its hybridized counterparts within the M division.

This steadfast adherence to combustion power is facilitated by BMW's advanced M Ignite system, which features an innovative pre-chamber design in the cylinder head, each equipped with its own spark plug. This twin-spark system, reminiscent of technologies previously utilized by Alfa Romeo and Honda, significantly improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions without necessitating a heavy battery pack. Consequently, the next M3 is projected to remain considerably lighter than hybrid rivals, such as the Audi RS5, which weighs approximately 5,000 lbs compared to the current M3's sub-3,900 lbs. While a mild-hybrid assist will be integrated, its minimal weight impact ensures that the car's overall mass remains optimized for performance. This strategy not only meets stringent emissions regulations but also preserves the vehicle's dynamic characteristics.

The decision to maintain a lightweight, non-hybrid powertrain for the M3 creates an exciting opportunity for the reintroduction of a manual transmission. Given the positive reception to past manual M3 variants, a new generation with this option would undoubtedly appeal to driving purists. Frank van Meel also expressed confidence that the six-cylinder M models will continue to operate without full electrification for the foreseeable future, thanks to the new M Ignite Euro 7 S58 engine, which is set to be implemented across various future M cars, including potentially the next M2, M4, and even the X3 M. This strategic choice underscores BMW M's dedication to delivering uncompromised driving experiences, offering distinct, performance-focused models alongside their fully electric counterparts.

In a world increasingly moving towards electrification, BMW M's decision to preserve the pure combustion engine for its M3 model demonstrates a profound understanding of its enthusiast base and a commitment to maintaining driving tradition. This approach not only provides a refreshing alternative in the performance car segment but also champions engineering innovation in internal combustion technology. By striking a balance between regulatory compliance and the pursuit of raw driving pleasure, BMW M continues to inspire automotive passion, proving that the spirit of high-performance can thrive through diverse powertrain philosophies.