The Lucid Air electric sedan has already made a name for itself with its impressive efficiency using the existing drive unit. However, a patent filing suggests that the automaker might be considering a 2-speed transmission for future use. This could potentially bring about a new level of performance and efficiency.

Unleashing the Power of a Lucid 2-Speed Transmission

Light and Compact with Efficiency Maintained

A new layout for a 2-speed transmission in the Lucid Air might offer a remarkable combination of lightness and compactness. This design allows for a more streamlined vehicle without sacrificing efficiency. It enables the car to achieve optimal performance while taking up less space. For example, the coaxial planetary gearsets used in the current drive-unit setup help provide the necessary reduction from motor speed to wheel speed while keeping packaging compact. This ensures that the Lucid Air can maintain its efficiency even with the addition of a 2-speed transmission.

Moreover, this light and compact design could potentially lead to better handling and maneuverability. With less weight and a more efficient power transfer system, the Lucid Air could offer a more dynamic driving experience.

Strong Launch with a Lower-Cost Motor Unit

The idea of a 2-speed transmission in the Lucid Air might allow for a stronger launch with a lower-cost motor unit. By having different gear ratios, the car can deliver more torque from a standing start, providing a more exhilarating driving experience. This could be particularly beneficial in situations where quick acceleration is needed, such as when merging onto a highway or passing other vehicles.

For instance, the Porsche Taycan uses a 2-speed gearbox for its rear wheels, which helps balance acceleration and high-speed efficiency. The low gear delivers more torque at the start, while the high gear engages at a certain speed threshold for better efficiency. Lucid could potentially adopt a similar approach to enhance the performance of its electric sedan.

Idea in Future Lucid EVs or Engineers' Pondering

The concept of a 2-speed transmission in the Lucid Air might be something that is set to appear in future Lucid EVs. It could be a part of the company's continuous exploration and development of technological innovations. Alternatively, it might still be a topic that engineers are pondering and experimenting with.

Lucid's CEO and CTO, Peter Rawlinson, has in the past provided explanations to Green Car Reports about why the company hasn't yet used a multi-speed unit. The patent filing sheds more light on the company's thinking and potential plans for the future. It shows that Lucid is constantly looking for ways to improve its electric vehicle technology and drive the transition to sustainable transportation.

While the company has made no claims as of yet that this patent is directly related to the Atlas drive unit or future midsize models, it certainly opens up the possibility. Lucid's continuous innovation and protection of unique IP are key aspects of their development process.

Comparisons with Other EVs

The Porsche Taycan uses a 2-speed gearbox for its rear wheels, which helps balance acceleration and high-speed efficiency. The 'box has a low gear that delivers more torque from a standing start, while keeping the rear motor and power electronics cooler. The high gear automatically engages at a certain speed threshold, or when the drive eases up on the accelerator. This shows that other EV manufacturers are also exploring the benefits of a 2-speed transmission.

Similarly, Tesla uses motors with different gearing in dual-motor versions of the Model S to achieve similar goals. Volkswagen, on the other hand, is still confident that it can find other ways to maximize efficiency without a 2-speed transmission. Mercedes-Benz is already using a 2-speed transmission in its next-generation MMA platform, which will underpin four compact models. Lucid could potentially follow suit and include an additional gear ratio in some of its future EVs as well.

Lucid's continuous exploration and development of new ideas and technological innovations are crucial in advancing electric vehicle technology and helping to accelerate humanity's transition to sustainable transportation. The potential addition of a 2-speed transmission in the Lucid Air is just one example of their commitment to pushing the boundaries.