Apple slipped a low-key announcement for Tesla rival Lucid Air into its keynote.

Global exposure for Lucid

The Lucid Air, an all-electric sedan manufactured by Lucid, has been in production since 2021 and is now available in various markets, including select European countries like Norway, Germany, and the Netherlands. This remarkable vehicle offers a plethora of features that position it as a top-tier option in the automotive industry, particularly in terms of its impressive range and charging capabilities.

One of the standout features of the Lucid Air is its remarkable autonomy, boasting a range of 836 kilometers according to the EPA cycle. This impressive range ensures that drivers can confidently embark on long journeys without the need for frequent charging stops, making it a highly practical choice for both daily commuting and extended trips.

Additionally, the Lucid Air’s recharging capabilities contribute to its status as a top-of-the-line electric vehicle. With advanced charging technology, owners can conveniently and swiftly recharge their vehicles, further enhancing the overall driving experience. This feature is particularly significant considering the growing charging infrastructure and the increasing importance of efficient recharging options for electric vehicles.

Furthermore, the Lucid Air encompasses a host of other notable features that elevate its standing among luxury sedans. These features may include cutting-edge technology, exceptional interior comfort, elegant design elements, and advanced safety systems, all of which contribute to the overall appeal and desirability of the vehicle.

In Apple’s presentation video, Craig Federighi highlighted a feature that caught the attention of electric car enthusiasts. He demonstrated the ability to remotely activate climate control and lock the car. This feature led to speculations and discussions among enthusiasts on social media platforms. Some comments included statements like “Craig humbly bragged about his Lucid Air,” “Switching over to Craig’s Lucid Air is an understatement,” and “Craig announced the Lucid Air.”

By briefly displaying the Lucid Air screen during the presentation, Apple intentionally drew viewers’ attention to it and sparked thoughts about the absence of a Tesla or even the possibility of an Apple car (iCar).

It is worth noting that Apple CarPlay is not available in Teslas. This is primarily because Tesla, under Elon Musk’s leadership, prefers to maintain a closed ecosystem. This approach allows Tesla to have better control over their system and increase their revenue. This argument may resonate with other companies that also prioritize maintaining control over their ecosystem.

Lucid is not in the same range as Tesla

It is indeed evident that Lucid Motors’ sales figures are significantly lower than those of Tesla. In fact, it would be an exaggeration to even consider them as direct competitors. Tesla has established itself as the dominant force in the market, producing a wide range of electric vehicles that are touted as being “affordable.”In terms of pricing, the entry-level Lucid Air, available in the Pure AWD and Air Touring variants, is currently being sold in Germany for 109,000 and 129,000 euros respectively. These prices are considerably higher when compared to the offerings from Tesla. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, expressed his skepticism about Lucid Motors in a tweet back in December, suggesting that he believed the company was not suited for the market. 

It is important to note that these statements are reflective of the current market landscape and may be subject to change as the electric vehicle industry continues to evolve.

By making a surprise appearance at Apple’s WWDC, Lucid has an excellent opportunity to discuss its car’s compatibility with Apple CarPlay, a feature that Tesla currently lacks. However, it seems far-fetched to believe that this move alone can revitalize a struggling brand.

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