Executive Summary
This analysis evaluates the feasibility, benefits, and drawbacks of leasing a pre-owned Lucid Air Touring as a San Ramon, CA resident, with a focus on technology features, minimal down payment, available incentives, and business purchase considerations. Based on current data directly from Lucid's website:
Pre-owned pricing confirmed
2023 Lucid Air Touring models are available for approximately $58,498 (former rentals with 3,500-13,000 miles), representing a 25.9% depreciation from the new price of $78,900.
Competitive lease offers
New 2025 Lucid Air Touring models can be leased for $569/month with $5,819 down, which is more attractive than originally estimated.
Robust charging infrastructure
San Ramon has 190-282 public charging stations within a 15km radius, including networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint.
Recommendation
For a 5-8 year ownership horizon, purchasing a pre-owned 2023 Lucid Air Touring represents the best long-term value. However, the competitive lease offer for new models makes leasing more attractive than initially assessed for those who prioritize the latest technology.
Vehicle Specifications
Performance
- Horsepower: 620 hp
- 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
- Top Speed: 155 mph
Battery & Range
- Range: 406 miles (EPA)
- Battery: 92 kWh
- Architecture: 900V
- Efficiency: 4.6 miles/kWh
Charging
- Fast Charging: Up to 200 miles in 16 minutes
- Home Charging: Full charge overnight
Dimensions
- Length: 195.9"
- Width: 76.3"
- Height: 55.5"
- Weight: ~4,850 lbs
- Cargo: 26.1 cu ft combined
Technology Features
DreamDrive Pro
Advanced driver assistance system with 32 sensors, including LiDAR
Glass Cockpit
34-inch curved 5K display with intuitive user interface
Pilot Panel
Lower console touchscreen for comfort controls and additional functions
Over-the-air Updates
Regular software improvements and feature additions
Surreal Sound
21-speaker immersive audio system with Dolby Atmos
Connected Features
Integrated navigation, smartphone connectivity, and remote vehicle control
Experience Impeccable Comfort
The Lucid Air Touring features ultra-lush seating with super soft materials and enough cabin space to accommodate every adventure.
Pricing & Depreciation
New 2025 Model
Base price ($80,400 with destination)
- Full warranty coverage
- Latest features and updates
- New vehicle benefits
- Eligible for all incentives
Pre-owned 2023 Model
Former rental with 3,500-13,000 miles
- 25.9% depreciation already occurred
- Same core technology features
- Remaining warranty coverage
- Best value for long-term ownership
Depreciation Analysis
Calculated Depreciation
Over approximately 18 months
Dollar Depreciation
From original MSRP
Monthly Rate
Per month
Industry Comparison
Than average EV depreciation
Lease Options
New 2025 Lucid Air Touring
- Term: 36 months
- Down Payment: $5,819 plus taxes & fees
- Mileage Allowance: 10,000 miles/year
- Vehicle Price: $80,400 (with destination)
Includes $7,500 capital cost reduction and assumes qualification for On-Site Credit ($1,000) and Conquest Bonus ($2,000)
Estimated Pre-owned Lease
- Term: 36 months
- Down Payment: $4,000-5,000
- Mileage Allowance: 10,000 miles/year
- Residual Value: ~50-55% after 3 years
Estimated based on pre-owned purchase price of $58,498
Available Incentives
On-Site Vehicle Bonus
For qualifying MY2025 vehicles available on-site
Conquest Offer
For owners of ICE/hybrid vehicles from competitive brands or Tesla
Tesla Trade-In Allowance
When trading in a Tesla vehicle
Charging Networks in San Ramon
San Ramon has a robust EV charging infrastructure with 190-282 public charging station ports within a 15km radius, including 8 DC Fast Chargers that would be most suitable for the Lucid Air's fast-charging capabilities.
Electrify America
Location: Magnolia Square Shopping Center (2005 Crow Canyon Place)
Charger Types: DC Fast Chargers (up to 350kW)
Compatibility: Fully compatible with Lucid Air
Notable Features: Fastest charging network, nationwide coverage, 24/7 customer support
EVgo
Location: Twin Canyon Shopping Center (2550 San Ramon Valley Blvd)
Charger Types: DC Fast Chargers (up to 150kW)
Compatibility: Fully compatible with Lucid Air
Notable Features: 100% renewable energy, reliable network with high uptime
ChargePoint
Locations: Multiple locations throughout San Ramon
Charger Types: Level 2 (6-7kW) and some DC Fast Chargers
Compatibility: Fully compatible with Lucid Air
Notable Features: Largest charging network in the US, real-time availability status
City of San Ramon
Locations: Various municipal locations
Charger Types: Primarily Level 2 (6-7kW)
Compatibility: Compatible with Lucid Air (standard J1772 connector)
Notable Features: Often located at civic centers, parks, and public facilities
Charging Strategy for Lucid Air Owners
Daily Commuting
Primary: Home charging on PG&E EV rate plan during off-peak hours
Backup: ChargePoint Level 2 chargers at workplaces or shopping centers
Long-Distance Travel
Primary: Electrify America DC Fast Chargers (350kW) for fastest charging
Secondary: EVgo DC Fast Chargers (150kW)
Planning Tool: Lucid's built-in navigation system with charging stop planning
Emergency Charging
Quick Boost: Electrify America or EVgo DC Fast Chargers
Extended Stay: Any Level 2 public charger in the extensive San Ramon network
Business Purchase Considerations
Tax Benefits for Business Purchase
| Tax Benefit | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit | Up to $7,500 | Tax credit for business purchases |
| Section 179 Deduction | Up to $12,400 | Limited by GVWR under 6,000 lbs |
| Bonus Depreciation (2024) | 60% of remaining basis | After Section 179 |
| Regular Depreciation | Remaining basis | Over 5 years |
Business Lease vs. Purchase Analysis
Lease Advantages
- Lower monthly payments ($569/mo vs. $1,010/mo)
- Simplified accounting
- 100% of payments deductible as incurred
- ~$34,140 in deductions over 5 years
Purchase Advantages
- Asset ownership
- Greater tax benefits
- No mileage restrictions
- ~$58,498 in deductions over 5 years
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
| Ownership Method | Initial Cost | Monthly Payment | 5-Year Total Cost | Equity at End |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Purchase (2025) | $80,400 | $1,390/mo* | $83,400 + depreciation | Yes (~$40,000) |
| Pre-owned Purchase (2023) | $58,498 | $1,010/mo** | $60,600 + depreciation | Yes (~$35,000) |
| New Lease (2025) | $5,819 | $569/mo | $40,343 | No |
| Est. Pre-owned Lease | $4,500 | $475/mo | $33,000 | No |
*Assuming 60-month financing at 4.99% APR with 10% down
**Assuming 60-month financing at 5.5% APR with 10% down
Recommendations
Optimal Model Selection
For a San Ramon resident focused on technology features with a 5-8 year ownership horizon, the 2023 Lucid Air Touring at $58,498 represents the best value. It offers:
- Substantial savings over new models ($20,402 less)
- Most major depreciation has already occurred
- Same core technology and features as newer models
- Better long-term value for extended ownership
Lease vs. Purchase
Given the 5-8 year planned usage period:
For Personal Use
A purchase is recommended over a lease due to:
- Lease terms typically limited to 3 years, requiring multiple leases
- Total cost of ownership becomes more favorable for purchase beyond 4 years
- Ability to build equity in the vehicle
- No mileage restrictions
For Business Use
A purchase is strongly recommended due to:
- Significantly better tax advantages (~$58,498 vs. ~$34,140 in deductions over 5 years)
- No mileage restrictions for business travel
- Asset ownership and potential appreciation
- Flexibility for modifications or branding
Financing Structure
- Down Payment: If minimizing upfront costs is priority, $5,000 down with monthly payment of ~$1,050/month offers a good balance
- Term Length: 60-month financing provides optimal balance of monthly payment and total interest
- Interest Rate: Credit unions often offer the most competitive rates (4.5-6.0% APR) for pre-owned luxury vehicles
Conclusion
Based on our revised analysis with current data directly from Lucid's website, we find that a pre-owned 2023 Lucid Air Touring at $58,498 represents an excellent option for a technology-focused San Ramon resident planning for 5-8 years of ownership. The 25.9% depreciation from new pricing makes pre-owned purchase more attractive than leasing for long-term ownership.
San Ramon's robust charging infrastructure with multiple networks (Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, and city chargers) provides excellent support for Lucid ownership. The vehicle's exceptional range, advanced technology, and performance characteristics align well with the needs of a tech enthusiast.
While leasing offers lower monthly payments and flexibility, purchasing is recommended for the 5-8 year usage period mentioned, especially if utilizing business tax benefits. The surprisingly competitive lease offer for new models ($569/month) makes this option more attractive than initially assessed for those who prioritize having the latest technology and minimal maintenance concerns.
For a business purchase, the combination of the Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit, depreciation benefits, and business expense deductions creates a compelling financial case, though the Lucid Touring's GVWR likely limits the Section 179 deduction to $12,400.
The final decision should weigh personal priorities regarding upfront costs, monthly payments, technology preferences, and tax situation, but overall, a pre-owned Lucid Air Touring represents a premium EV option that aligns well with the stated requirements and San Ramon's infrastructure.