Take Charge for the Future with Luxury EVs

Take Charge FOR THE FUTURE WITH

Luxury EVs by Blake Herzog

Today’s luxury electric vehicles are zooming to the forefront of the EV sector, loaded with power and features along with the leading-edge technology that will defuse combustion engine domination once and for all. Here are some of the buzziest machines on the market today: LUCID AIR GRAND TOURING A Silicon Valley startup building the longest-range EVs on the market in the desert just south of Phoenix, Lucid has been scooping up awards, starting with the big one right out of the gate last November, MotorTrend Car of the Year.

The Air Grand Touring can get a jaw-dropping 516 miles per charge, getting you all the way to the coast with lively acceleration and intuitive handling of the engine and driver interface. This top-ofthe-line product starts at $154,000, with less and more expensive models coming hot on its wheels.

MERCEDES BENZ EQS The flagship electric model from the world’s most prestigious automaker has wowed observers with its graceful handling and generously sized passenger cabin and trunk, making every journey a breeze whether it’s longdistance or around the block.

With a range of 350 miles per charge, you’ll be able to reach the luxe lights of Las Vegas and the opulent spas of Phoenix and Tucson without breaking a sweat. Prices for lower trim level start at $102,000, but for just $3,000 more you get massaging front seats! TESLA MODEL S PLAID Tesla has dominated the EV market by making reliable emission-free cars available for as little as $40,000, which may sacrifice some interior cushiness to deliver on topend performance and range.

Now Elon and the crew are reaching for the top end with its Plaid series, which in the Model S has a tri-motor engine that can take you gliding down a country road or flying down a speedway faster than almost anything else. With a range of almost 400 miles per charge, prices start at about $140,000.

PORSCHE TAYCAN Porsche has managed to make an EV that drives like a Porsche, and while its 212 mile-per-charge range doesn’t really compete with some of its competitors, the 2023 model is expected to get a boost. It’s near the top in both performance and luxury, with a 16.8-inch curved infotainment screen and a lowslung style and design that keeps you close to and engaged with the motor, a rarity for electric vehicles. Prices start at $86,000, with more dough buying you a little more range with higher trims.

RIVIAN R1S This startup has staked its claim on “electric adventure vehicles,” rolling out its pickup trucks first before starting deliveries of its first SUV this year. Its exterior gives off subtly futuristic vibes and is built for outdoor exploration, offering up to seven seats for family escapades.

Adaptive air suspension is standard, four of its eight driving modes are for off-road use, and it can wade in up to 3 feet of water. It’s available with a standard battery with a 260-mile range or a large one that can reach 320 miles.

Prices start at $78,000.