Lucid’s upcoming Cosmos crossover has been seen in prototype form beside a Tesla Model Y, offering the clearest look yet at the new model’s size and design. With a starting price below $50,000, the Cosmos is set to become Lucid’s most affordable vehicle and a direct competitor to the Model Y and Rivian R2.
First Look: Cosmos Prototype Compared to Model Y
A camouflaged Lucid Cosmos prototype was recently photographed next to a Tesla Model Y near Lucid’s factory in Casa Grande, Arizona. The image highlights the Cosmos’ proportions, showing it is close in size to the Model Y but with a lower, sleeker profile.
The Cosmos appears more like a tall hatchback than a traditional SUV, with a fastback-style rear end. In contrast, the Model Y features a taller, more rounded greenhouse. The photo also reveals a large screen spanning most of the Cosmos’ dashboard, though not quite pillar-to-pillar.
Lucid’s Most Affordable Model Yet
Lucid has confirmed that the Cosmos will launch with a starting price below $50,000, making it significantly more accessible than the current entry-level Lucid Air Pure, which starts at over $70,000.
While the exact starting price has not been announced, the Cosmos is positioned to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y, which starts at $39,990 for its base version. The Cosmos will also rival the upcoming Rivian R2 in the midsize crossover segment.
Powertrain and Range Expectations
Lucid has stated that the Cosmos will use the new Atlas drive unit, but has not confirmed whether rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive will be standard. The larger Gravity SUV is only available with all-wheel drive, while the Air sedan offers a single 430-horsepower rear-wheel-drive option.
The Cosmos is expected to deliver 300 miles (~480 km) of range with a 69-kilowatt-hour battery pack and is anticipated to regain 200 miles (~320 km) of range in a 14-minute charging session. These figures would make the Cosmos highly competitive in terms of efficiency and charging speed.
Competitor Comparison
The Lucid Cosmos is set to compete with the Tesla Model Y and the Rivian R2. The Model Y is known for its practicality and starts at $39,990, while the Rivian R2 will offer a single-motor rear-wheel-drive entry-level variant. Lucid’s focus on efficiency and charging performance could help the Cosmos stand out in this crowded segment.
Why this matters
The introduction of the Cosmos marks Lucid’s move into a more affordable price bracket, expanding its potential customer base. With a starting price below $50,000, the Cosmos could attract buyers who previously found Lucid’s offerings out of reach.
This new model is also significant as it brings Lucid into direct competition with established players like Tesla and Rivian in the midsize crossover market.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in a midsize electric crossover will soon have another option to consider. Those looking for a Lucid vehicle at a lower price point may want to wait for the full Cosmos reveal this summer, as more details on pricing, specifications, and availability are expected to be announced.
Key Specs
- Model: Lucid Cosmos
- Vehicle Type: Midsize Crossover
- Expected Starting Price: $50,000
- Estimated Range: 300 miles (~480 km)
- Battery Capacity: 69 kWh
- Charging (claimed): 200 miles (~320 km) in 14 minutes
- Drive Unit: Atlas drive unit
Source
Images sourced from: carbuzz.com, autonocion.com, evxl.co
