Lucid Projects 5.95% Annual Growth for Saudi Electric Vehicle Market

Lucid Studio in Jeddah, western Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Lucid Studio in Jeddah, western Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Lucid Projects 5.95% Annual Growth for Saudi Electric Vehicle Market

Lucid Studio in Jeddah, western Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Lucid Studio in Jeddah, western Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Marc Winterhoff, Chief Operating Officer at Lucid Motors, has announced plans to build more customer service centers in Saudi Arabia. The company is also expanding its mobile services, equipping Lucid Air vehicles for on-the-go maintenance.

Winterhoff noted that 40% of repairs are done through mobile services, both locally and internationally. He predicted that the local market will grow by 5.95% annually over the next five years.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Winterhoff praised Saudi Arabia’s rapid push for electric vehicles, including its goal for 30% of cars to be electric by 2030 and the expansion of high-speed charging networks.

This commitment highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to electric vehicles.

Winterhoff believes Saudi Arabia is set for more private sector innovations and clean energy investments, making it a key player in sustainable transportation.

He also pointed out the significant opportunities in the Saudi car market, particularly for electric vehicles, supported by Vision 2030 and an expected $50 billion investment, which should drive substantial growth.

Winterhoff highlighted key partnerships with Saudi Arabia, especially with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is the company’s largest investor and supports its global expansion.

According to Winterhoff, Lucid’s partnership with the PIF has been crucial in enabling the motor company to open its first electric vehicle factory in the Kingdom.

Winterhoff also mentioned a partnership with Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company (EVIC) to build a high-speed charging network across Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Lucid Motors has signed an agreement with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) to work on research for advanced battery technologies using KACST’s facilities and resources.

Winterhoff highlighted Lucid Motors’ plan to build more studios and service centers to get closer to customers.

The company is also launching “mobile services,” where Lucid Air vehicles are converted into mobile service units for maintenance. About 40% of repairs are handled this way, both locally and globally.

To improve home charging for new customers, Lucid is offering a 3,750 riyal ($1,000) subsidy for installing a home charger through approved providers in Saudi Arabia, plus a two-year free maintenance program.

Winterhoff noted that most Lucid vehicles can travel over 700 kilometers on a single charge, which usually lasts about a week, so customers typically need to charge only once a week.



Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan Sign Agreement to Establish Joint Business Council

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan Sign Agreement to Establish Joint Business Council

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)

The Federation of Saudi Chambers and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Tajikistan signed an agreement on Monday to establish a Saudi-Tajik Business Council aimed at strengthening trade and investment relations between the two nations.

The agreement was signed in Riyadh by Chairman of the Federation of Saudi Chambers Hassan Al-Huwaizi and Chairman of the Tajik Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jamshed Jumakhonzoda. The signing ceremony was attended by Tajikistan's First Deputy Prime Minister Hokim Kholiqzoda, Saudi Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih, and several officials and business leaders from both countries.

The business council will engage in systematic trade and investment promotion activities across various sectors identified in the economic cooperation agenda. It will serve as a platform for Saudi and Tajik business communities to network, showcase their activities, and foster commercial partnerships.

Additionally, the council will work to open new avenues for economic collaboration, facilitate continuous interaction between the private sectors of both countries, and exchange information on market opportunities. Plans include organizing exhibitions, conferences, and trade delegation visits to enhance mutual economic ties.

This agreement marks a significant step forward in expanding bilateral economic cooperation, aligning with both nations’ goals to strengthen partnerships and explore new business opportunities.