THERE'S A PRETTY BIG EFFICIENCY DIFFERENCE WITH LUCID AIR ROLLING ON 19" VS 21" WHEELS

EV Channels Review

This video meticulously compares the efficiency of the Lucid Air Grand Touring when equipped with 19-inch Aero wheels versus optional 21-inch wheels. The reviewer highlights that while the 19-inch wheels are crucial for achieving the Lucid Air's impressive EPA-estimated range (516 miles) and a tested 435.5 miles at 70 mph, they are aesthetically unappealing. The 21-inch wheels, conversely, significantly enhance the car's visual appeal and offer potential benefits in performance, braking, and handling due to wider rear tires (265 section vs. 245). The testing methodology involved a back-to-back comparison on the same 56-57 mile loop under identical conditions, charging from 10-50% and maintaining 68 degrees Fahrenheit climate control. The results showed a substantial efficiency drop with the 21-inch wheels, yielding 3.6 miles per kilowatt-hour compared to 4.2 miles per kilowatt-hour with the 19-inch wheels. This translates to an estimated 13-15% reduction in range, potentially bringing the highway range down to around 375 miles. Despite the efficiency penalty, the reviewer personally favors the 21-inch wheels for their looks and believes the Lucid Air's inherent efficiency still makes them a worthwhile compromise, though suggests keeping the Aero wheels for long road trips to maximize range. Minor drawbacks noted with the 21-inch wheels include slightly increased road noise and a less refined ride over small bumps, even with the suspension in 'smooth' mode.