DRIVING A LUCID AIR FROM SEATTLE TO DENVER WITH STARBUCKS DC FAST CHARGING!

EV Channels Review

This video documents a road trip from Seattle to Denver in a Lucid Air Grand Touring, primarily focusing on the viability of the Starbucks DC Fast Charging network as a charging solution. The reviewer highlights the Lucid Air's impressive range, noting it can easily cover significant distances (over 300 miles) between charges, making it a highly capable road trip vehicle. However, the Starbucks charging network, a partnership with Volvo and ChargePoint (CP250 units), proves to be a mixed bag. While the premise is novel, the chargers often deliver inconsistent and slow charging speeds (around 35-50 kW, occasionally dipping lower), struggling with the Lucid Air's high-voltage system. The reviewer experienced 'oscillating' charging speeds and noted that the car is far more capable than these chargers can support. Despite these charging challenges, the reviewer found the Starbucks locations themselves to be superior to many Electrify America stops, offering better amenities. The video also touches upon the Lucid Air's driver assistance systems, noting occasional phantom braking on curvy roads and instances where the system disengages without clear notification. The car camping aspect is also explored, with the reviewer finding the sedan's interior surprisingly accommodating for overnight stays. Ultimately, while the Starbucks network is a viable option for topping up or as a backup, it's not recommended as the sole charging solution for a high-performance EV like the Lucid Air on a long-distance trip.