After creating the electric car with the longest range in the world, Lucid is targeting the Tesla Model Y: first images of the Lucid Cosmos

The Lucid Air stands as the electric car with the longest range available on the European market today. With an approved WLTP range of 960 km, this efficient sedan has become a benchmark that no one has been able to surpass so far, as the new Mercedes-Benz EQS (926 km WLTP) and BMW i3 (912 km WLTP) fall far behind.

The second model from the American brand was, as expected, an SUV: the Gravity, which shares its core components with the Air, differing from it through a more practical body design capable of seating up to seven passengers. This strategy strongly recalls the approach Tesla took a decade ago with the Model S and Model X.

So what comes after the Model S and Model X? Exactly: a mass-market model like the Model 3 or Model Y. In Lucid’s case, this role will be played by the Cosmos, a mid-size crossover that aims to compete with the Rivian R2 or Tesla’s own Model Y, its main rivals in the North American market.

It is also set to arrive in Europe, where it will face off against the Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW iX3/iX4, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo EX60. Compared to its competitors, the Lucid Cosmos will stand out for the same reason as the Air and Gravity models: extremely high efficiency, which will allow it to offer good range despite using a battery that is likely smaller than that of other comparable models.

An American SUV manufactured in Saudi Arabia

Although its launch is scheduled for early next year (with production taking place at a new plant in Saudi Arabia), Lucid has released a series of previews of the new model that allow us to learn about some of its features. The rear end, which will have a coupé-style sloping line and two rear windows in a pure kammback style, will feature continuous light strips that incorporate the brand’s name in illuminated form. At the front, we find very slim headlights.

After the Cosmos, Lucid will launch a second electric SUV of similar size, the Earth. The main difference between the two is that while the Earth shares the same platform as the Cosmos, it will have a more off-road focus. In other words, the Cosmos will be similar in design to the Tesla Model Y, whereas the Earth will follow the off-road philosophy of the Rivian R2.

"These vehicles deliver Lucid’s unmistakable design and driving characteristics, while adopting a far simpler and more efficient manufacturing approach and cost structure. With the Midsize [platform], we don’t compromise on what makes a Lucid special; we designed it to be scalable," says Derek Jenkins, Senior Vice President of Design and Brand at Lucid.

Source | Auto Express