As much as a I tried to convince myself, just couldn't get there at this time. Went ahead and finally cancelled my order for now. As Tesla did, I'm certain Lucid will continue to improve over time. For now though, Tesla's experience does win out.
My reasons for deciding to cancel at this time....
1. AP / FSD is one of the features that is near the top of my must have list. Lucid appears to have a ways to go.
2. While Lucid's 500 mile range is GREAT, it's something I wouldn't benefit from more than a couple of times per year based on my person driving needs.
2.5 Tesla's supercharger network simply can't be beat at this time. 400 miles in range vs. 500 miles in range alone isn't beneficial enough for my personal use of the vehicle.
3. I truly appreciate the adjustable suspension, including ride height adjustments I have with Tesla's air suspension.
4. I do prefer the hatchback over the trunk. Lucid almost offsets that with its far superior frunk.
5. I do appreciate the smart summon feature Tesla has. Some day, I'm sure Lucid may offer the same.
The Lucid is certainly a better looking car. It ranks higher in terms of Luxury, but doesn't rise to the level of a Mercedes. And just not enough superior to the Tesla to move the needle far enough. Model S LR is around $100K. Lucid at $140K. in my own mind, what Lucid offers, would justify about a $20K premium over the Tesla, but that's before calculating the sacrifices I'd also have to make with a Lucid (AP, charging network, less advanced & developed UI due to Tesla's 9 year head start, etc) While I'm not a fan of Tesla's new interior, the Model S still drives like a premium car. After spending 9 years going through the growing pains with Tesla, not sure I want to start over with a new company. I've just come to appreciate the features Tesla offers that Lucid isn't able to offer quite yet.
My other concern was overall demand and resale potential. Tesla, despite being 9 years experienced and building around 1,000,000 cars per year, still has a longer wait time from Reservation to Delivery than does Lucid. The fact that a new startup company is able to deliver cars so quickly is an indication of lower demand. Have also seen a few try to sell them with no action, while Tesla used cars are selling like hot cakes. A $100K Tesla probably won't lose more than 30% in 3 years. Early indications are that the Lucid will decline more in value from its higher price point.
The Lucid is a great car and the first to seriously get me to consider making a switch from Tesla, which I've wanted to do for quite some time. Unfortunately, just too soon to make the switch based on where each car is at.
I certainly wish Lucid the best and will definitely keep my eye on them. Possibly will reconsider as Lucid catches up.
I can so relate to this post. In the same boat with a Tesla MS LR, and a confirmed order for an AGT (without having even seen one in person yet). Figure the deciding factor will be when I finally get that test drive at the Short Hills, NJ location (*hint* Lucid, if you are watching). Plan to have both cars next to each other, and do a side-by-side comparison.
1. Totally agree with you. While FSD is terrifying, AP on the highway is awesome. Have really enjoyed long road trips using AP, especially on a highway in heavy stop-and-go traffic (like heading to the shore on a weekend). This is a big ding for Lucid, now. But....with more advanced hardware, isn't it just a matter of time until Lucid updates the software and then surpasses Tesla?
2. Disagree. For us, a 6-hour roadtrip is doable without needing a pit stop (and our old ICE car did it in one tank of gas). Unfortunately, that's right at the top end of the MS range, so we've had to stop for a recharge. Hoping that with 500 miles of range, we're back to no pit stops.
3. Tough call. The adjustable height comes in handy - potholes, driveways, snow, etc. But man the MS ride is harsh for such an expensive car. I'm hoping that the AGT has a noticeably smoother ride, and from others' posts in this forum it seems like it will.
4. I agree with you, but the upcoming roof rack for the AGT might offset that. Upper/lower trunks + upper/lower frunks + roof rack will definitely be more storage space than the MS.
5. Totally agree with you. Comes in handy in a parking lot when it is raining or snowing. We've had the MS come pick us up a few times and saved ourselves from getting soaked. But again....isn't it just a matter of time until Lucid updates the software?
Net-net, I'm hoping that after the test drive I conclude that the ride, hardware, and finishes on the Lucid are all better, there's the potential for it to be overall better in the near future with a few software updates and accessories. If that's the case, then I think it makes sense to buy now - can get a great price on the used MS, and the top-end EV manufacturers seem to be in a battle to raise prices quicker so it will cost more to wait and buy the AGT later.
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