The Lucid Air Sapphire, introduced in 2023, represents the pinnacle of performance within the Lucid Air model range. Positioned as a hyper-luxury electric sedan, the Sapphire variant distinguishes itself through its tri-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, delivering an astounding 1235 horsepower. It’s a flagship model designed to compete with high-performance vehicles from established manufacturers like Porsche and Tesla, while simultaneously showcasing Lucid’s technological prowess in the electric vehicle sector. The Sapphire builds upon the foundational design and technology of the Air platform, but elevates it to a new level of capability and exclusivity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lucid |
| Model | Air |
| Generation | Air |
| Type (Engine) | Sapphire 118 kWh (1235 Hp) AWD Electric |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 1.89 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2 kg/Hp, 510.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 1.2 kg/Nm, 801.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 118 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 900 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (EPA) | 687.2 km (427.01 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (EPA) | 19.9 kWh/100 km (32.03 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 105 |
| km/kWh | 5 |
| mi/kWh | 3.1 |
| Electric motor 1 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 3 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 3 type | Synchronous |
| System power | 1235 Hp |
| System torque | 1939 Nm (1430.13 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2420 kg (5335.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 909 l (32.1 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 5004 mm (197.01 in.) |
| Width | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2195 mm (86.42 in.) |
| Height | 1407 mm (55.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2959 mm (116.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1674 mm (65.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Two electric motors drive the rear wheels, one electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut, Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 420 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 390 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front tires | 265/35 R20 |
| Rear tires | 295/30 R21 |
| Front wheel rims | 20 |
| Rear wheel rims | 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lucid Air Sapphire’s powertrain is centered around a 118 kWh lithium-ion battery pack operating at a high 900-volt architecture. This high-voltage system allows for faster charging times and increased energy efficiency. The Sapphire utilizes a tri-motor configuration, with two synchronous electric motors powering the rear axle and a single synchronous motor driving the front axle. This setup enables a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring capabilities. The combined output of these motors is a staggering 1235 horsepower and 1939 Nm (1430.13 lb.-ft.) of torque. The single-speed automatic transmission is a direct-drive unit, typical of electric vehicles, providing instant torque delivery. The battery pack is positioned low in the vehicle’s chassis, contributing to a low center of gravity and enhanced handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The Sapphire’s performance is truly exceptional. Its 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 1.89 seconds places it among the quickest production vehicles currently available. The tri-motor all-wheel-drive system provides immense traction, allowing for rapid acceleration even on less-than-ideal surfaces. The torque vectoring system further enhances handling by distributing power to individual wheels as needed, minimizing understeer and maximizing cornering agility. While the single-speed transmission lacks the gear changes of a traditional automatic, it delivers seamless and instantaneous power delivery. The Sapphire’s driving experience is characterized by its incredible acceleration, precise handling, and refined ride quality. Compared to the standard Air models, the Sapphire offers a significantly more aggressive and engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the range-topping model, the Sapphire comes standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury and performance features. The interior is appointed with premium materials, including leather upholstery, wood trim, and aluminum accents. Standard equipment includes a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and a premium audio system. Optional extras include a variety of customization options, such as unique paint colors, interior trim materials, and performance upgrades. The Sapphire’s focus is on providing a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin experience, befitting its high price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Sapphire features a sophisticated chassis designed to handle its immense power. The suspension system utilizes spring struts with coil springs, double wishbones at the front, and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, both incorporating transverse stabilizers. This configuration provides a balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger 420mm discs at the front and 390mm discs at the rear. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) ensures optimal braking performance in various conditions. The Sapphire’s chassis and braking systems are engineered to provide confident and controlled handling at high speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lucid Air Sapphire has been widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. Its acceleration and handling capabilities have been compared favorably to those of established hypercars. However, its high price point and limited production volume have been noted as potential drawbacks. Compared to other Air variants, the Sapphire represents a significant performance upgrade, but also comes with a substantial price premium. Its EPA-estimated range of 427.01 miles is competitive with other high-performance electric vehicles. The Sapphire’s focus on performance and luxury sets it apart from the more mainstream Air models.
Legacy
The Lucid Air Sapphire is a landmark vehicle in the electric vehicle landscape, demonstrating the potential for electric cars to deliver hypercar-level performance. Its advanced powertrain technology, luxurious interior, and sophisticated chassis represent a significant step forward in electric vehicle engineering. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, Lucid’s commitment to quality and innovation suggests that the Sapphire will be a desirable and collectible vehicle in the future. The Sapphire’s impact extends beyond its own performance; it sets a new benchmark for electric vehicle performance and luxury, inspiring other manufacturers to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
