It is hardly surprising that an electric vehicle startup like Lucid Motors encounters production problems because of certain constraints, as is typical for such operations. However, what is awful for the firm is that its top executives have left the organization during a challenging manufacturing ramp.
Lucid’s recent experiences are developing in a way that is all too similar to Tesla’s years of growing difficulties, according to InsideEVs. Unfortunately, top executives responsible for certain operations have been abandoning their position amid the current production ramp that requires thorough and comprehensive attention.
Following the Business Insider report that featured eight former Lucid executives and the struggle related to the company’s failing production ramp, Teslarati reports that at least six Lucid executives have recently left the company, including:
- Peter Hochholdinger: VP of Global Manufacturing
- Ralph Jakobs: VP of Programs
- Mike Boike: Head of Arizona Operations
- David Peel: Head of New Production Introduction and Program Management
- Chris Barber: Senior Manager of Logistics Engineering
- Keith Champion: Director of Operational Excellence
Their titles can speak for everything despite their names being unfamiliar. In essence, the production is primarily handled by these senior Lucid executives. Among them are Peter Hochholdinger, formerly Lucid’s Vice President of Global Manufacturing, the head of operations at the Arizona factory, the head of new production, and others. But since Hochholdinger was a previous vice president of Tesla, he may be recognized by those who follow the EV business.
Nonetheless, the cause of the personnel exits is still solely a matter of conjecture. Impressively, Lucid Motors demonstrates tenacity in pushing through difficulties rather than giving up. Currently, Lucid is restructuring and taking the necessary measures to keep growing and improving.
Keith Champion, the former Director of Operational Excellence, talked about the remarkable people he met and collaborated with at Lucid upon his exit announcement. Meanwhile, the former Head of New Production Introduction and Program Management David Peel asserted that leaving his great team at Lucid is “bittersweet” as he is set to transfer to Nikola.
Nonetheless, the company now expects to build only 6,000 to 7,000 electric vehicles this year instead of the 20,000 it had planned to.
Peter Rawlinson, CEO, and CTO, clarified last week:
“We’re overhauling our logistics processes and introducing a series of improvements to simplify the system and yet make it more efficient and robust. Our guidance of 6,000 7,000 cars for the year, I believe, is a very balanced and a realistic guide for the future.”
