Lucid Group And KACST Collaborate To Advance Electric Vehicle Technology In King Abdullah Economic City

Jeddah: Lucid Group, a leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at furthering the development of electric vehicle technology in the Kingdom.

The partnership between Lucid Group and KACST will involve joint research initiatives utilizing KACST services, facilities, and products. The focus of the research will be on advancing battery technologies and materials, as well as studies in aerodynamics, autonomous driving, and artificial intelligence technologies.

The collaboration will also include rigorous testing and evaluation of electric vehicles to ensure their optimal performance and adaptation to the climatic conditions prevalent in the Kingdom.

Commenting on the partnership, Faisal Sultan, Vice President and Managing Director Middle East at Lucid Group, expressed their commitment to promoting sustainable energy adoption through advanced technologies. He further stated that the MOU represents a significant step toward achieving their vision, acting as a catalyst to elevate the entire EV industry and inspire the widespread adoption of sustainable transportation, in alignment with the Kingdom's vision for a more sustainable and diversified economy.

Dr. Talal bin Ahmed Al-Sudairi, Senior Vice President of KACST for the Research and Development Sector, emphasized the role of their state-of-the-art facilities in advancing electric vehicle systems. He highlighted the importance of this research in supporting the development of technologies related to autonomous driving, aligning with the nation's aspirations for research, development, and innovation in the energy and industry sectors.

The joint research and development headquarters will be established at the national laboratories in KACST, with plans to commence operations during the third quarter of 2024.

This partnership between Lucid Group and KACST represents a significant milestone in the progression of electric vehicle technology in the Kingdom. It underscores the commitment to innovation and sustainability, paving the way for cleaner and more efficient transportation solutions.