Lucid’s latest SUV, the Gravity, isn’t just the electric SUV with the longest range; it might also be the fastest to charge when it connects to Tesla’s Supercharger network later this week.
Tesla’s Upgrade
Tesla recently shared that all V4 Superchargers in North America have been enhanced to deliver a charging output of 325 kW. This specific number appears to have been selected as the highest that the Cybertruck, which is the only vehicle equipped with a modern 800V powertrain, can currently manage.
Early tests with the Cybertruck at the new 325 kW Superchargers showed average results since this peak speed couldn’t be maintained for more than a few minutes. The charging rate quickly dropped off, and the electric pickup took only 90 seconds less to recharge than it would at a 250 kW V3 Supercharger.
Issues with Battery Technology
The problem seems to stem from the 4680 battery, which has a reputation for poor charging performance. While it’s not as bad as the first generation seen in some Model Y vehicles, it’s still an issue that Tesla has been trying to resolve with a recent over-the-air update for the Cybertruck.
On the flip side, Lucid collaborated with Panasonic to modify its newest battery generation for the Gravity SUV, equipping it with a 926V powertrain. This has resulted in an electric SUV that boasts a range of 450 miles on a charge from the same 123 kWh battery that allows the Cybertruck to achieve 320 miles, plus it supports ultrafast 400 kW charging.
Impressive Charging Capabilities
The Gravity can gain 200 miles of range in just 12 minutes at Tesla’s V4 Superchargers. In contrast, the Cybertruck can only add 150 miles in 15 minutes due to Tesla’s recent OTA charging improvement, making it hard for the Cybertruck to match the Gravity’s performance.
Additionally, Lucid has made the Gravity the first non-Tesla vehicle to come with an integrated NACS charging port, allowing it to utilize Superchargers directly. Therefore, the first charging comparisons between the Cybertruck and Gravity after the 325 kW V4 upgrade—which is expected to reach 500 kW later this year—should be coming soon.
Tesla and Lucid are competing in an exciting electric vehicle market, and it’s clear that both companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of range and charging speed.
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