2026 Lucid Earth SUV: A Sub-$50,000 EV with Off-Road Grit
When Lucid teased their 2026 Earth SUV at Pebble Beach last month, I was hooked. As a gearhead who’s been tracking EVs since they were glorified golf carts, I can tell you Lucid’s new mid-size EV platform is a big deal. Set to launch at under $50,000, the Earth SUV is poised to take on the Tesla Model Y, and it’s bringing a rugged off-road variant inspired by the Gravity X concept in 2027. Interim CEO Marc Winteroff spilled the details ahead of IAA Munich 2025, and it’s clear Lucid’s aiming to shake up the electric SUV game. Here’s why the 2026 Lucid Earth SUV is worth getting excited about.
Lucid Earth Design: Sleek Yet Ready for the Wild
The 2026 Lucid Earth SUV is a masterclass in design, blending sleek lines with off-road swagger. Based on a trademark filing, “Earth” is the likely name, and it’s built on Lucid’s new mid-size EV platform. Teaser images show a streamlined silhouette with a sloping hood, block-lettered “Lucid” branding, and slim LED headlights that scream sophistication. With a curvy exterior and a drag coefficient that’s likely as slippery as the Lucid Air’s 0.21, it’s built to be aerodynamic and efficient.
The off-road variant, drawing from the Gravity X concept, cranks up the toughness. Picture chunkier all-terrain tires, a lifted ride height, a wider track, front tow hooks, skid plates, and a low-profile roof rack with forward-facing lights. It’s not just a pretty face—this Earth is ready to tackle dirt trails while keeping Lucid’s signature elegance.
Lucid Mid-Size EV Platform: Efficiency Meets Versatility
Lucid’s mid-size EV platform is the backbone of the Earth SUV, designed to deliver big range at a budget-friendly price. While exact specs are still under wraps, the platform uses Lucid’s next-gen Atlas drive unit, targeting around 335 hp and a smaller battery pack (likely 84-92 kWh) for efficiency. MotorTrend reports the Earth could hit 350-400 miles of EPA range, thanks to Lucid’s obsession with cutting energy consumption.
The platform’s versatility is key—it’ll spawn three models: the Earth SUV, an off-road variant, and a sedan to rival the Tesla Model 3 by late 2028. Built at Lucid’s AMP-2 factory in Saudi Arabia and Casa Grande, Arizona, it’s also being eyed for fleet use, with a $300 million Uber deal hinting at robotaxi potential. This platform’s built to scale, making Lucid a serious player in the EV market.
Lucid Earth Off-Road Variant: Gravity X Vibes
The Gravity X concept, unveiled at Pebble Beach 2024, gave us a taste of what’s coming with the Earth’s off-road variant in early 2027. Expect a beefed-up suspension, all-terrain tires, and underbody protection to handle rough terrain. The Gravity X’s rugged features—like restyled bumpers and a light-equipped roof rack—will carry over, making this SUV a competitor to off-road EVs like the Rivian R2. Lucid’s focus on efficiency means it’ll still deliver solid range, even when you’re kicking up dust.
Lucid Earth Specs: Power and Range on a Budget
While Lucid’s keeping some details close to the chest, the 2026 Earth SUV is set to be a performance bargain. The Atlas drive unit should deliver around 335 hp, with single- and dual-motor options for rear- or all-wheel drive. The smaller battery pack, paired with Lucid’s efficiency tech, could push 350-400 miles of range, per MotorTrend estimates. It’ll use the NACS connector, giving access to Tesla’s Supercharger network for 200 miles of charge in about 15 minutes.
The interior, while not fully revealed, will likely mirror the Air and Gravity’s premium vibe, with sustainable materials like recycled fabrics and a large central touchscreen. Expect top-tier safety features, including Lucid’s DreamDrive ADAS with multiple cameras and radar.
Lucid Earth Price and Production: Affordable and Global
Priced under $50,000, the 2026 Lucid Earth SUV is a steal compared to the Air ($69,900-$249,000) and Gravity ($79,900-$94,900). Production kicks off in late 2026 at Lucid’s AMP-2 factory in Saudi Arabia, with additional output from Casa Grande, Arizona, per CarBuzz. The off-road variant follows in early 2027, with the sedan arriving by late 2028. Winteroff noted Lucid’s funding lasts through mid-2026, so they’re hunting for more cash to scale up, but the plan’s on track.
Why the 2026 Lucid Earth SUV Is a Big Deal
The 2026 Lucid Earth SUV is Lucid’s ticket to the mainstream. With a sub-$50,000 price, a versatile mid-size EV platform, and an off-road variant that channels the Gravity X’s grit, it’s ready to battle the Tesla Model Y and Rivian R2. Built in Saudi Arabia and Arizona, it’s a global play with efficiency and style to spare. Lucid’s betting big, and I’m stoked to see it hit the road.
What’s got you pumped—the Earth’s affordability or its off-road potential? Drop a comment and let’s talk EVs. Check Lucid’s site for updates as the 2026 Earth SUV nears its debut.
Source- caranddriver.com
