Electric Cars

Expanding Horizons: Lucid's Strategic Shift Towards Accessible Electric Mobility

The Debut of the More Attainable Gravity Touring Model

After initially accepting reservations for its Gravity SUV in November, Lucid confirmed intentions to introduce a more affordably priced Touring variant by late 2025. Recent updates indicate that the company remains on schedule to launch this less expensive electric SUV within the current year.

Overcoming Production Obstacles and Accelerating Output

Despite facing a slower-than-anticipated production ramp-up, exacerbated by supply chain disruptions, including a global shortage of magnets, Lucid's interim CEO, Marc Winterhoff, expressed confidence in a substantial increase in manufacturing output during the latter half of the year. He affirmed that essential raw materials, magnets, and necessary licenses are secured for the remainder of 2025, positioning the Gravity lineup to dominate production and delivery figures.

Pricing and Market Availability of Gravity Models

Currently, the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring is the sole trim offered in the United States, with a starting price of $94,900. The forthcoming Gravity Touring model will offer a more economical entry point at $81,550, inclusive of shipping costs. European markets have also seen the launch of the Gravity Grand Touring, with deliveries expected in early 2026 and prices commencing at 116,900 euros in Germany. The Gravity Touring will soon follow, priced at 99,900 euros in Germany.

Lucid's Vision for Future Entry-Level Electric Vehicles

Beyond the Gravity Touring, Lucid has ambitious plans for several additional lower-priced vehicles. The company previously disclosed its strategy to develop three midsize electric vehicles based on a new platform, starting with a crossover SUV. Former CEO Peter Rawlinson indicated that these midsize models would be priced around $50,000, aiming to compete directly with Tesla's popular Model 3 and Model Y. During a recent event, Winterhoff further confirmed that an upcoming midsize model would draw design inspiration from the Gravity X concept, which was unveiled last month. He also assured that Lucid possesses adequate financial resources to sustain operations until the latter half of next year, coinciding with the planned commencement of production for its midsize platform.

Stellantis has announced the discontinuation of its fully electric Ram 1500 pickup truck, citing a decrease in demand for battery-powered vehicles in the North American market. This decision comes after multiple delays for the electric truck, which was initially envisioned as a direct rival to models like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Chevrolet Silverado EV. Meanwhile, the Ramcharger, a variant that combines a gasoline engine with electric power for extended range, will proceed to market next year under the rebranded name Ram 1500 REV, creating a potentially confusing nomenclature for consumers.

The journey of the all-electric Ram 1500 REV has been fraught with postponements. First introduced as a concept in early 2023, its market introduction was initially pushed back to 2025, then again to early 2026, and finally to mid-2027, before its ultimate cancellation. This series of delays underscores the difficulties Stellantis has encountered in bringing its battery-electric pickup vision to fruition amidst a fluctuating market for electric vehicles.

Stellantis officials explained that the cancellation stems from a reassessment of their product strategy in response to the decelerating demand for large battery-electric trucks. The company stated its intention to enhance market competitiveness and growth, maintaining pricing power through a diverse portfolio of products, services, and electrified offerings.

Despite this setback, Ram is not entirely abandoning its commitment to electrified vehicles. The focus will now shift to the range-extended Ramcharger, which employs a V6 gasoline engine to charge its battery, effectively extending its operational range. This model is slated for release next year and will, somewhat counter-intuitively, inherit the 'Ram 1500 REV' designation previously intended for the all-electric version.

Ram executives expressed confidence in the renamed Ramcharger, asserting that the vehicle is poised to establish new performance benchmarks within the half-ton truck segment. They highlighted its anticipated exceptional range, formidable towing capabilities, and impressive payload performance as key attributes that will appeal to customers.

This strategic shift represents another hurdle for Stellantis, which has faced ongoing challenges with its electrification strategy and the financial pressures associated with its Ram and Jeep brands. The company's electric Dodge and Jeep models have reportedly struggled with market reception, often criticized for their suboptimal range and charging specifications. The electric pickup sector itself presents a complex landscape, marked by high battery costs and the inherent difficulties in meeting the robust towing and hauling requirements of the American truck market with purely electric powertrains.

The decision to halt the production of the all-electric Ram 1500 REV and reallocate its name to the range-extended Ramcharger signals a significant adjustment in Stellantis's approach to electrification. This move reflects the current market realities and the ongoing evolution of strategies within the automotive industry as manufacturers navigate the transition to more sustainable vehicle options while balancing consumer demand and economic viability.