Inside The Lucid Gravity X Concept: A Trail-Ready SUV With 828 HP | Cars & Bikes | Forbes

Key Concepts

• Lucid Gravity Cross Concept: An off-road crossover concept version of the Lucid Gravity three-row SUV.
• No Compromise Experience: Lucid's philosophy of offering both daily drivability and enhanced capabilities (e.g., off-road) without sacrificing core attributes like range, performance, and interior space.
• Track Width: The distance between the centers of the wheels on an axle, widened by 40 mm per side for the Gravity Cross.
• Ramp Angle: The maximum angle a vehicle can ascend or descend without its undercarriage scraping, improved in the Gravity Cross.
• Ojai Interior: A standard taupe-colored interior finish offered by Lucid.
• Midsize Program: A future product line Lucid is exploring, which may incorporate elements from the Gravity Cross concept.

Introduction to the Lucid Gravity Cross Concept

The Lucid Gravity Cross is an off-road crossover concept derived from the standard Lucid Gravity three-row SUV. Introduced by Derek Jenkins, Lucid's Chief of Design, the concept was developed to infuse the "already amazing Gravity" with additional ruggedness, durability, and a sense of adventure. This initiative stems from Lucid's core focus on delivering exceptional range, performance, interior space, and sophisticated design. The goal was to create a vehicle that caters to consumers who desire off-road capability in a daily driver without the typical compromises in handling or vehicle dynamics.

Exterior Design and Off-Road Enhancements

The Gravity Cross features several specific modifications to enhance its off-road prowess and rugged aesthetic:

• Front Bumper: An updated front bumper designed to improve the vehicle's ramp angle, crucial for navigating uneven terrain.
• Tow Hooks: Exposed tow hooks are integrated into the front, providing practical utility for recovery.
• Tire and Wheel Package: A more rugged tire and wheel package, including special 20-inch wheels, is fitted to improve off-road capability and give the vehicle a tougher stance.
• Rocker Area: The rocker area has been lifted, increasing ground clearance and protecting the underbody.
• Roof Cargo Tray: A functional roof cargo tray is added to provide additional storage capacity for trips and gear.
• Wider Track: One of the most distinctive changes is the widening of the track by 40 mm per side. This pushes the wheels further out, creating a larger envelope for the rugged tire package and contributing significantly to the car's "tough stance on the road."

The design also incorporates a unique decal concept inspired by the "classic California road trip," symbolizing journeys from the ocean to the mountains to the desert. This includes topographical map decals representing Death Valley, imagery for Big Sur, and a specific coordinate for Pebble Beach located along the side of the car.

Interior Design and Features

The interior of the Gravity Cross concept builds upon Lucid's existing design language while introducing adventure-oriented accents:

• Base Interior: The concept utilizes Lucid's "Ojai" interior, characterized by its standard taupe finish.
• Accent Colors: Throughout the cabin, orange accents are strategically placed to add a vibrant, adventurous feel.
• Steering Wheel: A special micro suede steering wheel with contrast stitching enhances tactile feedback and aesthetic appeal.
• Center Console Glass: A notable detail, and Derek Jenkins' favorite part, is the orange-tinted glass used for the center console.
• Practicality: The interior demonstrates versatility with seats folded down, showcasing ample cargo space, and even features a custom mountain bike designed to match the vehicle's aesthetic.

Market Reception and Future Outlook

Lucid acknowledges strong existing demand for the standard Gravity SUV. The Gravity Cross concept serves as a crucial tool for gauging consumer interest and feedback regarding a more rugged, adventure-focused variant.

Regarding future production:

• While currently envisioned as a three-row vehicle, Lucid's long-term plan includes offering a two-row Gravity. If the Gravity Cross were to enter production, there would be an opportunity to offer it in both two-row and three-row configurations.
• Derek Jenkins revealed that aspects of this concept are already being explored and integrated into some of Lucid's future products, specifically within their midsize program. This indicates that the ideas presented in the Gravity Cross are not merely conceptual but are influencing upcoming vehicle development.
• Initial reactions to the concept, both online and at shows, have been "awesome," providing positive confirmation for Lucid's exploration of this segment.

Synthesis and Conclusion

The Lucid Gravity Cross concept embodies Lucid's commitment to a "no compromise experience," aiming to deliver enhanced off-road capability and ruggedness without sacrificing the core attributes of range, performance, and luxurious design that define the brand. By widening the track, improving ramp angles, and integrating practical features like a roof cargo tray and exposed tow hooks, the concept demonstrates a thoughtful approach to adventure-ready vehicles. The interior further reinforces this theme with subtle yet impactful design choices. This concept serves as a vital feedback mechanism for Lucid, informing future product development, particularly within their midsize program, and potentially paving the way for a production version that offers both two-row and three-row configurations to meet diverse consumer needs.