Lucid Motors just delayed its affordable EV. Now what?

Lucid Motors, an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has pushed back the release of its most affordable crossover SUV, the Cosmos, by almost a year to the second half of 2027. This decision is part of a broader effort by new CEO Silvio Napoli to avoid the quality issues that have plagued Lucid's existing EVs. Napoli emphasized the need for this delay to ensure the company's survival, acknowledging past disappointments and failures to meet commitments.

The Cosmos was supposed to be the first of several vehicles built on Lucid's next-generation "mid-size" EV platform, aiming to attract more customers with a lower price tag. However, the company has faced challenges with build quality and software issues on its Gravity SUV. Napoli has taken drastic measures to cut costs, including laying off 18% of the workforce and canceling a second shift at the Arizona factory.

The delay in Cosmos production will likely disappoint customers expecting it later this year but could also affect Lucid's relationships with suppliers who may seek higher pricing or contractual claims. Despite the setback, Lucid has sufficient liquidity until the end of 2027, but the company warned that it will build and sell fewer vehicles this year than previously anticipated.

This has resulted in a more than 15% drop in the company's stock price. The delay will also impact Lucid's planned robotaxi service with Uber and Nuro, with Uber ordering 10,000 Gravity SUVs to be fitted with autonomous vehicle technology.