Lucid and Panasonic Revolutionize Battery Tech for Electric SUVs

Lucid Gravity SUV debuts with Panasonic’s compact, high-capacity battery cells.

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    Lucid and Panasonic Revolutionize Battery Tech for Electric SUVs

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In a significant move for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Lucid Group and Panasonic Energy have joined forces to develop next-generation battery technology for the upcoming Lucid Gravity SUV. This partnership, which began in 2022, highlights Panasonic’s advanced 2170 cylindrical lithium-ion battery cells, boasting an impressive energy density exceeding 800Wh/L, promising superior performance and efficiency.

Advancing EV Battery Innovation Through Strategic Collaboration

This collaboration represents an impressive  advance in EV battery development, with Panasonic’s high-capacity cells specifically designed to meet Lucid’s stringent requirements for fast-charging, safety, and long-term performance. Notably, Panasonic supplied over 15 billion lithium-ion EV batteries globally by the end of 2023, maintaining a notable safety record with no battery-related vehicle recalls. Currently, these cells are produced in Japan, but future production is planned for Panasonic’s state-of-the-art facility in Kansas.

The partnership’s success is evident in the Lucid Gravity’s performance metrics. The Grand Touring model offers an EPA-estimated range of 450 miles, while utilizing a battery pack half the size of competing models. With 828 horsepower and a 0-60 mph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds, the Gravity sets a new benchmark for electric SUVs.

Market Impact and Launch Timeline

The introduction of the Lucid Gravity SUV is a milestone for both companies. Production of the Grand Touring model, with a starting price of $94,900, began in December 2024 at Lucid’s Arizona plant. Additionally, a more affordable Touring variant, starting at $79,900, is expected to launch in late 2025. Both models will leverage Panasonic’s cutting-edge battery cells, signaling a long-term partnership aimed at reshaping the EV landscape.

Offering up to 120 cubic feet of cargo space in its five-seat configuration, the vehicle combines the spaciousness of a full-size SUV with the compact exterior dimensions of a mid-size SUV. Made possible by Panasonic’s compact yet high-performance battery system, the design showcases how advanced battery technology can drive new vehicle design paradigms.

Industry Leadership and Environmental Impact

Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson highlighted the environmental benefits of achieving an extended range using a smaller battery pack, emphasizing reduced resource consumption. Panasonic Energy CEO Kazuo Tadanobu echoed this sentiment, noting that the partnership sets a new benchmark for the industry and could inspire future collaborations aimed at advancing EV technology.

Environment + Energy Leader