2023 Lucid Air Sapphire: Tesla Model S Plaid rival unveiled

US electric vehicle startup Lucid Motors has unveiled a high-performance rival for the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan Turbo S.

The limited-run 2023 Lucid Air Sapphire claims to be the “most powerful sedan in the world”, with three electric motors – two on the rear axle and one on the front – producing more than 895kW of power.

Lucid says the flagship model will complete the 0-97km/h (60mph) sprint in “less than two seconds”, 0-100mph (161km/h) in “less than four seconds”, and the quarter mile in less than nine seconds, in addition to a top speed exceeding 320km/h.

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However, these claims are projected figures, with Lucid claiming final power outputs “will be announced later”, along with real-world instrumented demonstrations.

If accurate, this places the Lucid Air Sapphire on a level playing field with the Tesla Model S Plaid, which has a claimed 0-97km/h time of 1.98 seconds, while both vehicles are faster in a straight line than the Porsche Taycan Turbo S (2.8s from zero to 100km/h).

The three-motor Model S Plaid produces 761kW of power, with a 322km/h top speed and a sub-10 second quarter-mile time.

Currently, the most-powerful Lucid Air is the limited-edition, dual-motor Dream Edition P – now sold out – which offered 828kW, a 2.5-second 0-97km/h time, and a 270km/h top speed.

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Lucid claims the Air Sapphire’s independently controlled rear motors will allow the outside motor to deliver full power while the inside motor regeneratively brakes.

Other changes include; stiffer springs and bushings, unique dampers, retuned driver assists, and carbon ceramic brakes.

In addition, the performance model includes black exterior accents, beefier wheel arch extensions, an understated spoiler, and Sapphire badging.

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The vehicle features 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.

While the standard model wears a five-spoke black and white alloy wheel design, carbon-fibre aerodynamic covers are optional to maximise efficiency – bringing additional driving range on a long journey.

Inside, the driver and passenger are treated to 18-way power-adjustable sports seats with heating, cooling and massaging, while Lucid has updated the infotainment system to display graphics unique to the Sapphire.

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First deliveries of the 2023 Lucid Air Sapphire are expected to commence next year, priced from US$249,000 (AU$360,500) – compared to US$169,000 (AU$244,680) for the now-defunct Air Dream Edition P, and US$135,990 (AU$196,885) for the Tesla Model S Plaid.

With priority given to selling electric vehicles in the North American market, the startup has not announced any official plans to expand to others yet – including Australia.

The brand has previously said an Australian launch is on the agenda, while a reservation page on its website lists the United Kingdom, suggesting right-hand drive production is at least under consideration.