Lecture on Lucid Motors and Tesla Supercharger Network

Introduction

• Date: January 31, 2025
• Event: Lucid Motors gains access to Tesla Supercharger Network.
• Speaker: Ahmad Dalala, VP of Engineering for Lucid Motors.

Key Points Discussed

Lucid's Access to Tesla Supercharger Network

• Only the Lucid Gravity, a newly released SUV with a native NEXX port, has immediate access.
• Lucid Air will gain access in a month or two.

Importance of Supercharger Access

• Critical for launching Lucid Gravity with access.
• Tesla NEXX seen as a more elegant design compared to CCS1 connectors.
• Lucid Gravity has a 400 kW peak and high sustained charging rates.

Charging Technology and Adaptation

• Differences in charging technology due to pack architecture and voltage systems.
• Gravity designed to handle both 400-500V and 800-1000V charging networks.

Adapter Policies

• Gravity includes adapters to support high voltage charging networks.
• Future mandates will require both AC and DC NEXX adapters.
• Unclear policy for Lucid Air adapters, pending finalization.

Charging Performance

• Lucid Gravity achieves a sustained charging rate, improving over Lucid Air.
• Gravity charges 200 miles in under 12 minutes.
• Improved cooling systems and chemistry optimization for better performance.

Battery and Charging System Engineering

• New chemistry co-developed with Panasonic allows for faster charging.
• System optimizations include better cooling and higher voltage compatibility.

Battery Degradation Concerns

• Fast charging does not significantly affect long-term battery health.
• Monitoring and data analysis help ensure minimal degradation.

Customer Incentives and Charging Programs

• Movement away from free unlimited charging to more sustainable options.
• Potential incentives for home charging infrastructure instead.

Technical Details

• Gravity's voltage range goes from lower 700s to 926V.
• Pack architecture allows for high charging rates even on non-400 kW stations.
• Supports 500A current at peak.

Future Prospects

• Lucid Air will gain access to Tesla Superchargers in Q2 with some limitations.
• Air owners will have slower charging on Tesla V3 and V4 but gain network access.

Conclusion

• Lucid's integration with Tesla's network represents a significant step forward.
• Highlights the importance of adaptability in the rapidly changing EV landscape.

Final Notes

• Positive collaboration with Tesla and other partners emphasized.
• Continuous development in charging technology to enhance user experience.