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Lucid Motors' Gravity SUV dealing with early ‘hiccups,' interim CEO says
TechCrunch· 2025-05-07 19:48
Core Insights - Lucid Motors is facing early quality issues with the launch of its electric SUV, the Gravity, which is considered normal during the initial stages of vehicle delivery [1][2] - The company has experienced significant financial losses exceeding $13 billion and has struggled to meet sales expectations for its Air sedan [3] - The Gravity SUV, priced at $94,000 with a range of 450 miles, has begun shipping to customers, but production challenges have slowed progress [5][6] Production and Quality Challenges - The interim CEO, Marc Winterhoff, acknowledged technical issues, particularly with the heads-up display, which have delayed the rollout of the Gravity to showrooms [1][2] - Lucid has opted to delay the introduction of the Gravity to ensure quality rather than risk presenting an incomplete product to customers [2] - The company does not anticipate a significant increase in delivery volumes until the latter half of the year [6] Strategic Partnerships and Future Plans - Lucid aims to expand its business model beyond vehicle sales, exploring partnerships for EV technology supply, with a current deal in place with Aston Martin [7] - Winterhoff mentioned ongoing discussions with potential partners for joint manufacturing in the U.S., indicating interest in leveraging Lucid's assets [8] - The company is also in talks with multiple software and mobility firms regarding collaborations, which could provide additional revenue streams [8] Financial Outlook and Market Position - Lucid has stated it has sufficient cash and vehicle revenue to sustain operations until the launch of a more affordable mid-sized vehicle in late 2026 [8] - The company is evaluating strategies to mitigate risks associated with vehicle pricing and supply chain volatility in the current economic climate [9]
Lucid to Acquire Select Facilities and Assets Previously Belonging to Nikola Corporation, Will Extend Offers to 300+ Former Nikola Employees
Prnewswire· 2025-04-11 06:10
Core Points - Lucid Group, Inc. has reached an agreement to acquire select facilities and assets from Nikola Corporation, pending approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court [1][4] - The acquisition includes Nikola's former manufacturing and headquarters facilities in Arizona, adding over 884,000 square feet to Lucid's operations [3] - Lucid plans to offer employment to more than 300 former Nikola employees, enhancing its workforce with experienced personnel in EV technology [2][5] Company Expansion - The acquisition aligns with Lucid's strategy to expand its manufacturing, warehousing, testing, and development capabilities in Arizona [5] - The facilities acquired include state-of-the-art manufacturing and warehousing buildings, as well as advanced testing equipment [3] - This move supports Lucid's production ramp of the Lucid Gravity and upcoming midsize platform vehicles [5] Community Impact - The acquisition is expected to benefit the local Arizona community by providing continued employment opportunities for skilled workers [5] - Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs highlighted the positive impact on the state's growing EV and battery manufacturing industry [5] - State Senator T.J. Shope emphasized the importance of the investment in helping those affected by job loss regain employment [5]