The 2024 Lucid Air Pure has logged over 20,000 miles in long-term testing, proving itself a capable electric vehicle despite several quirks. Unlike many EVs confined to city driving, this model has seen serious road time, including trips to Virginia, Chicago, and Toronto. While charging infrastructure remains a concern for some, the Air demonstrates that long-distance EV travel is increasingly viable.
Road Trip Realities
The biggest issue remains charging availability and speed. Slow chargers or non-operational stations are still the main complaints, but access to Tesla’s Supercharger network (with an adapter) has improved the experience. The Air Pure’s estimated 300-mile range is realistic, but drivers should plan stops every three hours to avoid depleting the battery too much, as charging slows significantly at very low percentages.
One editor attempted a single-stop drive from Virginia to Ann Arbor but was hampered by cold temperatures reducing efficiency. The car’s energy went towards warming the cabin, reducing highway range. However, two stops still allowed for a 600-mile day.
Service and Maintenance
The Air received its 12,000-mile service for $611, including brake fluid flush, AC and battery checks, and open recall fixes. A suspension clunk prompted a trailer trip to a Lucid service center, where the issue was partially addressed, though not entirely resolved.
Winter Woes
Cold weather exposes the Air’s shortcomings. The HVAC system struggles to heat the cabin quickly in auto mode; manual override delivers faster warmth. Frozen active shutters cause mechanical clicking until thawed in a heated garage. The frunk latch also sticks in the cold, a problem that could be solved with a power latch (available only on higher trims).
Minor Wear and Tear
Exterior chrome trim is flaking off, likely due to road salt exposure, though other long-term test vehicles haven’t shown the same wear. Protection film is recommended for future buyers. Despite these issues, the Air remains popular among staff for its handling, luxury, and impressive Dolby Atmos sound system.
Long-Term Numbers
As of the latest update:
– Months in Fleet: 14
– Current Mileage: 24,303 miles
– Average Fuel Economy: 97 MPGe
– Battery Capacity: 88 kWh
– Observed Range: 300 miles
– Total Service Cost: $982
– Damage/Repairs: $693
The Lucid Air Pure delivers a premium EV experience with occasional drawbacks. Its strengths in driving dynamics and comfort outweigh minor annoyances, making it a compelling choice for long-distance drivers willing to adapt to its quirks.
