Most individuals who have lived with a Lucid for a while will share: When they function as designed, they’re outstanding. However, when they don’t—which, regrettably, happens fairly frequently regarding the software—you’re left contemplating what might have been. Even the new Gravity SUV, which my colleague Joel recently tested and praised in numerous ways, was hindered by erratic and unpredictable software issues. Lucid recognizes these challenges, hence the overhaul of its entire software leadership team.
This reflects a significant personnel shake-up within Lucid over the recent months, including the contentious dismissal of former chief engineer Eric Bach, along with the separate exit of engineering VP James Hawkins, as reported by TechCrunch. Earlier in 2025, CEO and founder Peter Rawlinson stepped down. And these are merely the individuals we are aware of.
“We have essentially replaced the entire software leadership,” interim CEO Marc Winterhoff informed Automotive News at CES 2026. “We are addressing this matter.”
Among the problems identified in our Gravity review were incorrect missing key fob alerts, range estimates communicated in kilometers despite the settings being in miles, an inexplicable “headlight error,” and the navigation system failing to adequately display a route independently.
That’s unacceptable for a six-figure SUV like the Gravity, but regrettably, not surprising in this contemporary age of incomplete new model introductions. What’s even more troubling is that there are persistent issues with the Air that continue to affect that sedan even after four years since it first started deliveries. The model I evaluated just a couple of months ago largely performed well, except for two problems. During one trip, the media controls on the steering wheel simply did not operate. Irritating, but not a dealbreaker.
Far more exasperating was the alarmingly limited range of the key fob when approaching the car. If my Lucid Air wasn’t already powered on, the fob scarcely worked; pressing the solitary, subtle button it included had no effect. Frequently, the fob would only unlock the vehicle when I’d gotten so near to it—essentially walked up to the driver’s door—that it could activate via the vehicle’s proximity sensors.
Compounding this is the letdown that the Air key is crafted from noticeably low-quality plastic, resulting in a bafflingly inadequate experience for an EV that excels in other areas. How is Lucid continuously failing at the essential task of key fob engineering?
We can’t provide an answer to that; we can only hope that the company is aware and has solutions to this and other issues forthcoming. “We are very close,” Winterhoff mentioned. “We expect Gravity to be over the hurdle by the end of January, or March at the latest. There is significant attention on this issue right now. We are fully aware.”
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**Lucid Cuts Software Team: Implications for Key Fob Functionality Uncertain**
In a recent strategic decision, Lucid Motors has revealed a decrease in its software development team, causing worries regarding the potential effects on the functionality of its key fob system. This choice comes as the company maneuvers through the challenges of scaling its operations and managing expenses within a competitive electric vehicle (EV) landscape.
The key fob system represents a vital element of modern vehicle technology, granting users convenient access and control over their vehicles. Lucid’s key fob is designed to provide functionalities such as keyless entry, remote engine start, and vehicle tracking, all of which significantly depend on advanced software algorithms. With the company reducing its workforce in this sector, concerns arise about the ongoing development and upkeep of these crucial features.
Industry experts have voiced apprehension that a leaner software team may result in slower updates and possible glitches in key fob functionality. The complexities of software development necessitate a strong team able to promptly address issues and create innovative features. With fewer resources, Lucid might find it challenging to meet consumer demands and keep up with technological progress.
Additionally, the personnel reduction could hinder the company’s capacity to react to customer feedback and apply necessary enhancements. As EV technology continues to advance, sustaining a responsive and agile software team is essential for ensuring that key fob features are dependable and user-friendly.
Conversely, Lucid Motors has indicated that the decision is part of a broader plan to streamline operations and concentrate on core strengths. The company aspires to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs, which could ultimately enhance the overall product development timeline. By reallocating resources, Lucid may focus on critical areas that directly impact vehicle performance and customer satisfaction.
The ambiguity surrounding key fob functionality underscores the fragile balance between cost control and technological innovation in the EV industry. As Lucid Motors persists in refining its business model, stakeholders will closely observe the consequences of this workforce reduction on product quality and consumer experience.
In summary, while Lucid Motors’ streamlining of its software team may result in immediate challenges regarding key fob functionality, the long-term repercussions will hinge on the company’s ability to evolve and innovate within a swiftly changing industry. The upcoming months will be pivotal in assessing how this strategic choice affects both the technology and the brand’s reputation in the competitive electric vehicle sphere.