Lucid Air Sapphire Makes Over 1,200 HP With Tri-Motor Setup

The Lucid Air Sapphire is the quickest model from the brand, making its debut at The Quail. This all-electric performance sedan boasts a tri-motor setup, making 1,200 horsepower, and hitting the quarter mile in under 9 seconds. The Tesla Model S Plaid finally has a direct competitor in its way.

The Sapphire's tri-motor setup includes two motors mounted on the rear axle, as well as an additional motor in front. All of this power makes for a 0-60 run in under 2 seconds, reaching 100 miles per hour in only 4 seconds. Amazingly, Lucid claims that no precautionary steps are required to achieve these incredible performance numbers.

The two rear motors found in the Sapphire also allow for impressive torque, sending it to all four wheels for improved cornering. On tighter turns, the drivetrain brakes the inside wheel while power is sent outside. In order to keep this feature going, there are new heat exchangers in the rear, as well as an increased coolant flow rate. Lucid also says that the battery is more powerful, with sharper thermal logic.

Compared to the standard Air, the springs and suspension bushings are stiffer, and there are new settings for the dampers, stability control, anti-lock brakes, traction, and power steering. Additionally, carbon ceramic brake discs come as standard equipment.

The Sapphire rides on new five-spoke wheels with carbon fiber aero discs. Each spoke features a silver U shape. These wheels are wrapped in Michelin PS4S tires, which are 20 inches in front and 21 inches in back.

All Lucid Air Sapphires are painted in an all-new Sapphire Blue exterior paint, with the new Stealth Look appearance package as standard. The cabin also gets some updates, including bolstered sport seats with 18-way power adjustability, as well as heating and ventilation. The seats also feature a massaging function.

Production for the Sapphire begins in the first half of 2023, and order books open on August 23. Pricing starts at a hefty $249,000.

Lucid Air Sapphire, or Tesla Model S Plaid?

Images: Lucid