Lucid, known for its luxury electric sedans, may soon be entering the world of law enforcement. The automaker has modified an Air sedan to take part in a series of rigorous tests put on during the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) 2025 Police Vehicle Evaluation event to showcase its potential as a high-performance electric patrol car.
The Lucid Air now sports a classic black-and-white police livery, front push bars, emergency lights, a public address system, and, unexpectedly, steel wheels. These modifications, while giving it a traditional patrol vehicle look, emphasize Lucid’s focus on transforming the Air from a luxury sedan to a utility vehicle capable of police duty.
A modified version of the Lucid Air recently participated in California Highway Patrol vehicle testing. What do you think about the potential for Lucid Air to lend its unmatched combination of range, interior and cargo space and performance to law enforcement duty? pic.twitter.com/qgjyXwk8Uh
— Lucid Motors (@LucidMotors) November 10, 2024
Lucid didn’t clarify what variant of the Air sedan they converted, but even it’s entry-level Air Pure offers impressive range and power that exceeds its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. The AIr Pure boasts an EPA-rated range of up to 420 miles (676km) per charge and a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. The top-of-the-line Lucid Air Sapphire offers up to 1,234 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-100 mph in just 3.8 seconds, making either variant ideal for a high-speed pursuit.
While the Lucid Air presents clear benefits in terms of performance, there are challenges to address. Cost remains a significant concern, with the base Air Pure priced at around US$71,400. This figure is notably higher than traditional patrol cars, prompting skepticism among some CHP members and the public.
The Lucid Air is not the only EV being considered for police duty. The CHP event also included other electric models, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Chevrolet Silverado EV, highlighting a broader trend toward EV integration in law enforcement. This shift aligns with similar efforts nationwide, as agencies increasingly adopt EVs to reduce emissions and align with sustainability goals.
