Tesla has long been the undisputed leader in the UAE's electric vehicle (EV) market. However, a new challenger is emerging as American automotive company Lucid Motors prepares to make its mark in the country. Currently, Lucid Motors has unveiled its Air variant, which includes four models: Pure, Touring, Grand Touring, and Sapphire, with the latter being the top-tier model priced at Dh996,450.

We had the opportunity to test drive the Grand Touring model, and here are our impressions. First and foremost, the Lucid Air Grand Touring is a luxury electric sedan that excels in design, comfort, and range. From its premium materials to its impressive performance specifications, the Grand Touring sets a new standard for electric vehicles.

Key specifications of the Air Grand Touring include:

Price: Dh475,650
Estimated Range: Up to 839km
Charge to 400km: 16 mins (claimed)
Acceleration 0 - 100km/h: 3.2s (claimed)
Top Speed: 270 km/h
Peak Power: 819 hp
Powertrain: Dual-Motor AWD

The exterior design of the Lucid Air Grand Touring is characterized by its rich metallic finishes and sleek lines. With six Californian-inspired color options and aerodynamic elements, the car makes a bold statement on the road. The Zenith Red color stood out to us as particularly striking. Wheel options range from the standard 20" Aero Lite wheels to optional 19” Aero Range and 21” Aero Blade wheels, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.

One of the standout features is the expansive glass canopy, which spans the roof and offers a panoramic view. This design not only brightens the cabin but also includes advanced UV and heat protection, making it practical for everyday use. With a drag coefficient of 0.197, one of the lowest among production cars, the Grand Touring provides an efficient, whisper-quiet drive.

Inside, Lucid’s interior design embodies luxury while staying true to the brand’s eco-conscious values. The cabin offers three unique interior themes: Mojave, Santa Cruz, and Tahoe, each featuring materials that reflect their namesakes. The spacious cabin provides ample headroom and legroom, making the Grand Touring ideal for long journeys.

The seating and amenities in the Lucid Air Grand Touring are exemplary. The front seats offer a 20-way power adjustment system that can be saved to individual driver profiles. Massage seats add an extra layer of relaxation, with five distinct massage programs and various intensities. The power rear and side sunshades provide protection from harsh sunlight while maintaining privacy and comfort.

Navigating the car’s features is made simple with Alexa Built-In voice control, allowing drivers to adjust settings, make calls, and control navigation hands-free. This enhances safety and convenience, especially during highway travel or in unfamiliar areas. All features can be controlled via a large touchscreen tablet at the center console, which can also be docked to reveal extra storage space.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring’s tech suite is centered around the DreamDrive™ Premium system, Lucid’s advanced driver-assistance platform. Key features include 3D Surround View Monitoring, Blind Spot Display, and a Driver Monitoring System with Distracted Driver Alert and Drowsy Driver Alert. Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Protection, combined with speed limit assist, make highway driving more convenient.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring delivers impressive power, range, and acceleration. With a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, it produces up to 819 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds (claimed). The car’s top speed of 270 km/h places it among the fastest electric sedans available. Its range is perhaps its most impressive feature, with a WLTP estimate of up to 839 km, making it a great option for long-distance travel.

Priced at Dh475,650, the Lucid Air Grand Touring offers top-of-the-line luxury, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled range, positioning itself as a serious competitor in the high-end electric vehicle market in the region. The base model 'Pure', with lesser power and range, starts from Dh309,750.

In conclusion, the Lucid Air Grand Touring excels in comfort, performance, range, and technology. Its sleek design, expansive range, silent and smooth drive, and luxurious features make it an ideal choice for drivers seeking an EV with both style and substance. However, car enthusiasts who prioritize speed and the sound of acceleration may find the Lucid’s performance lacking compared to Tesla’s Model S Plaid.

Pros:
Superior Range
Refined Design; panoramic glass roof which enhances luxury appeal
Comfort; massage seats, and extensive customisation options
Acceleration

Cons:
Whisper-quiet drive
Lucid’s service network is still expanding in the region
Charging can be inconvenient and slow in public places

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