In the competitive world of electric vehicles, alliances are rare. Lucid and Tesla, two prominent players in the EV market, have a history marked by rivalry rather than cooperation. Peter Rawlinson, Lucid’s founder and former CEO, was instrumental in the development of the Tesla Model S. However, since founding Lucid, the two companies have become direct competitors.
In a surprising twist, a Lucid Gravity has been demonstrated charging a Tesla Model 3 using the NACS (North American Charging Standard) port, popularized by Tesla. This act of inter-brand support highlights the practicality of Lucid’s vehicle-to-vehicle charging system, which operates without bias, providing energy to any compatible vehicle.
The Mechanics of RangeXchange
The Lucid Gravity’s vehicle-to-vehicle charging system, known as RangeXchange utilizes the vehicle’s native NACS port to charge other NACS-equipped vehicles. The system includes a specialized cable and adapter stored in the Gravity’s trunk, designed specifically for this function. The process is straightforward: one end of the cable is plugged into the Lucid’s charge port, triggering a blue blinking light and a message on the screen that reads “RangeXchange Ready.”
Users are then prompted to set a desired battery reserve to ensure the Lucid’s state of charge does not fall below the specified threshold. Once the other end of the cable is connected to the recipient vehicle, in this case a Tesla Model 3, the Lucid does not begin transferring energy until the user confirms the action by selecting “Start Sharing” on the screen.
Performance and Practicality
Upon activation, the Lucid Gravity begins charging the connected vehicle at up to 40 amps and 240 volts. Testing by Kyle Conner of Out of Spec revealed a slight deviation, with the system delivering 237 volts instead of the full 240 volts. Despite this minor discrepancy, the voltage sag was minimal, indicating efficient energy transfer.
The practicality of using one EV to charge another is limited. A Tesla Model 3 can gain approximately 48 kilometers of range per hour of charging at 240 volts. While this may not be the most practical solution for daily use, it can serve as a valuable resource in emergencies. A couple of hours of charging could provide enough range to reach a nearby charging station or home, making RangeXchange a useful tool in a pinch.
The Role of RangeXchange in EV Infrastructure
RangeXchange can be likened to a rolling EV jerrycan offering a temporary solution when traditional charging options are unavailable. This system exemplifies the spirit of sharing and cooperation within the EV community, transcending brand rivalries. While it may not replace dedicated charging stations, it provides a safety net for EV owners facing unexpected charging challenges.
As the EV market continues to evolve, innovations like RangeXchange highlight the potential for collaboration and mutual support among manufacturers. By enabling vehicle-to-vehicle charging, Lucid and Tesla, albeit indirectly, demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the This act of sharing resources not only benefits individual owners but also contributes to the broader adoption of electric vehicles.
