Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has partnered with the US electric vehicle manufacturer Lucid Group to develop the country’s electric vehicle (EV) technology.

Under the agreement, the two entities will collaborate on joint research initiatives, using KACST’s resources, facilities, and products for specialized research in advanced battery technologies and materials. Additionally, the partnership will involve studies in aerodynamics, autonomous driving, and artificial intelligence technologies.

The EVs will also be researched through the partnership for their compatibility and performance with the country’s climate.

Faisal Sultan, vice president and managing director of Middle East, Lucid Group said, “Lucid’s goal is to inspire the adoption of sustainable energy by creating advanced technologies,” he said, adding that the MoU serves as a means to advancing and elevating the EV industry of Saudi. 

The joint research and development headquarters are scheduled to be launched at KACST’s national laboratories during the third quarter of 2024.

“Using our state-of-the-art facilities, the research conducted under this project will advance electric vehicle systems and aid the development of technologies to support autonomous driving, in line with national aspirations for research, development, and innovation in the energy and industry sector,” said Talal bin Ahmed Al-Sudairi, senior vice president of KACST for research and development sector.