Lucid and Panasonic Revolutionize Battery Tech for Electric SUVs
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.
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.
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.
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.