Saudi PIF’s $9 Billion Lucid Investment Spurs 22% Rally; Rockwell Optimizes KAEC Plant
Cantor Fitzgerald confirmed Saudi PIF's backing of Lucid, which owns over 50% stake and invested $9 billion, driving a 22% share surge and bolstering stability after record lows. Rockwell Automation will deploy FactoryTalk MES and training at Lucid’s KAEC plant to boost production ahead of Q4 2026 Gravity robotaxi rollout.
1. Saudi PIF Reaffirms Long-Term Backing
Lucid Group shares jumped 22% over two trading sessions after a Cantor Fitzgerald report confirmed that the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) remains fully committed to the EV maker. The sovereign wealth fund, which holds more than 50% of Lucid’s equity and has infused over $9 billion since its first investment, met with Cantor analysts to underscore its intent to support capital needs and strategic growth. Analyst Andres Sheppard noted that this reassurance alleviates longstanding concerns about a possible withdrawal of funding, providing a level of stability and credibility rare among early-stage automakers. Lucid’s stock had hit a record low of $9.50 just days earlier before rallying on the news.
2. Robotaxi Rollout and 2026 Milestones
Looking ahead, Lucid plans to deploy over 20,000 Gravity electric SUVs as robotaxis between Q4 2026 and Q1 2027, marking its entry into autonomous ride-hailing services. This program will leverage the company’s existing manufacturing footprint and build on its partnership with Uber, with additional autonomy collaborations expected to be announced throughout 2026. Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff has hinted at further robotaxi-related updates at Lucid’s Investor Day, now scheduled for March 12, 2026. Investors will closely watch whether Lucid can secure new contracts similar to its deal with autonomous delivery firm Nuro as it seeks to monetize its Gravity platform.