CheckMag | Tired of Tesla? Check out these 4 alternatives for your next EV: From Lucid Air to Rivian R2

The 2024 Lucid Air leverages Lucid Motors' Formula E racing expertise to excel in both power and range, setting it apart from competitors such as the Tesla Model S.

The Air Pure model, now available only with rear-wheel drive, offers 430 horsepower and achieves a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. Higher trims, like the Air Touring and Grand Touring models, feature dual electric motors with all-wheel drive, generating 620 and 1050 horsepower, respectively; the Grand Touring sprints to 60 mph in just under 2.7 seconds. The top-tier Air Sapphire introduces three motors and 1234 horsepower, along with upgraded suspension and braking systems.

In terms of charging capabilities and driving distance, the Lucid Air leads its class. The Air Pure model provides a range of 419 miles, while the Grand Touring can reach up to 516 miles. All models benefit from a 300 kW charging capacity, capable of replenishing 300 miles of range in just 21 minutes.

Inside, the Lucid Air seamlessly combines luxury and technology. It includes advanced tech features like a triple-screen setup and a spacious, premium cabin, complemented by the Lucid DreamDrive suite, which offers a range of driver assist technologies.

The upcoming Porsche Macan EV, equipped with a robust 100kWh battery (95kWh usable) and an 800-volt system, sets new benchmarks in fast-charging capabilities, enabling a quick charge from 10 to 80 percent in merely 21 minutes at up to 270kW. In direct comparison, the Macan EV surpasses the Tesla Model Y Long Range’s 310-mile range, emphasizing Porsche’s commitment to enhancing electric vehicle efficiency along with luxury and performance.

The Macan offers versatile charging options and will be available in two variants: the Macan 4 and the Macan Turbo, both featuring all-wheel drive. The Macan 4 offers 402 horsepower, and the Turbo, 630 horsepower, capable of a 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.1 seconds. Both models include air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with two-valve technology, balancing comfort and performance across various driving modes.

Marketed as an all-terrain utility vehicle, it sits on 22-inch wheels and sports a wheelbase 3.4 inches longer than the current model, with a towing capacity of up to 4,409 lbs.

Inside, the Macan showcases an all-new Porsche heads-up display with augmented reality capabilities, alongside a 12.6-inch central touchscreen and a 10.9-inch gauge cluster.

Rivian has recently unveiled its new R2 SUV, a long-awaited, more affordable electric SUV that directly competes with the Tesla Model Y. Despite being smaller in overall size, the Rivian R2 boasts a shorter wheelbase, which enables a more spacious cabin without the cramped third row found in the Model Y.

The SUV also excels in off-road capabilities with its 9.8-inch ground clearance, significantly higher than the Model Y's 6.2 inches, making it better suited for trail hazards.

The R2 introduces practical innovations such as a dual-function tailgate and flat-folding seats for in-car camping, enhanced storage solutions with two glove boxes, and larger door pockets achieved by relocating speakers.

In terms of power and performance, the R2's tri-motor setup offers more flexibility and potential than the dual-motor arrangement found in the Tesla Model Y Performance model. While specific details on the battery capacity of the R2 remain undisclosed, its projected 300-mile range suggests a possible 100 kWh battery, compared to the Tesla Model Y's 82-kWh battery, which supports up to 310 miles of range.

The Kia EV9 stands out with its large dimensions, measuring 197 inches in length, 70 inches in height, and 77 inches in width, making it one of the largest electric SUVs available. Its extended wheelbase, a result of not having a traditional engine, provides over 42 inches of rear legroom, surpassing competitors like the Tesla Model X.

The EV9 also boasts advanced charging capabilities with its 800-volt architecture, enabling rapid charging from 10 to 80 percent in about 24 minutes, and about 100 miles of range can be added in just 13 minutes at a 230kW fast charger.

Additionally, the EV9 is equipped with bidirectional vehicle-to-load charging, supporting a maximum output of 3.68kW. This feature allows the SUV not only to charge other devices but also another electric vehicle, enhanced by a 120-volt outlet in the trunk and an optional V2L connector that plugs into the vehicle’s charging port.

In terms of pricing, despite Tesla's recent price reductions, the Model X remains expensive, with the long-range AWD version exceeding $100,000. In contrast, Kia's EV9 is expected to be priced more competitively, similar to the affordable starting price of $48,500 for the Kia EV6.

For those considering an upgrade to an electric car in 2024, consider the EMPORIA Level 2 EV Charger for faster charging (currently available on Amazon).