The R2 is a prime result of what happens when you compromise. Rivian took the quickest path to release so they copied the R1 playbook with similar design and engineering. You can tell they compromised by the fact it’s still a 400v platform and taps out at 240kW. Rivian has also had issues with its heat management when DC charging so will be interesting to see if this becomes an issue in the R2.
From a timing standpoint, Rivian has the upper hand but from an engineering standpoint Lucid does. Admittedly, Lucid will lose sales to Rivian purely because the midsize simply isn’t available at the time of the R2’s release and people themselves will compromise to get a vehicle now vs wait. Lucid needs to drop the specs sooner rather than later though, especially if the intention is to start production by year end.