Lucid Group, Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)—a premier research institution recognized for its global impact in science and technology. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in shaping the future of electric vehicle (EV) innovation.
Through this alliance, Lucid will tap into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s expanding scientific ecosystem to strengthen its leadership in EV technology. The partnership will focus on the design, prototyping, and development of next-generation vehicle components and systems, combining expertise across mechanical, electrical, thermal, and chemical engineering disciplines.
A core pillar of the initiative is materials science research, with dedicated efforts to develop high-performance solutions such as:
- Advanced metallic and polymer-based composites
- Heat-reflective glass coatings
- Innovative laminates
- Non-traditional materials aimed at reducing weight and enhancing durability
These technologies are designed to boost overall vehicle efficiency, extend range, and improve structural integrity.
Research and development will be conducted at KAUST’s state-of-the-art laboratories in King Abdullah Economic City, where Lucid and KAUST teams will work side by side to accelerate EV innovation and help shape the future of sustainable transportation.
“KAUST’s world-class research infrastructure and talent has the potential to further boost our technology leadership in many dimensions incl. our ADAS and AD roadmap—bringing cutting-edge innovation from the lab to the road,” said Marc Winterhoff
, Interim CEO at Lucid. “This collaboration also strengthens our global R&D footprint bringing additional resources to bear in our efforts to continue as a leader in EV powertrain, battery systems, advanced materials, and software-defined vehicle platforms. As this partnership demonstrates, we continue to strengthen our collaboration with the Kingdom and are fully committed to working together to help achieve their vision to become a global center for mobility innovation.”
“KAUST is proud to partner with Lucid to join our research capabilities with their real-world EV expertise while contributing to the Kingdom’s strategic goals,” said Sir Edward Byrne AC, President of KAUST. “This collaboration underscores our joint commitment to pioneering innovative solutions in electric vehicle technology.”
