After a series of delays, Faraday Future has finally launched its highly anticipated FF91 electric vehicle (EV) with a starting price of $309,000 for the first edition. In addition, the company announced a live stream event on its website, marking a significant milestone for the EV startup.
The FF91 was unveiled in 2017, with production initially planned for 2018. However, Faraday Future faced several setbacks and delays, like many electric car startups. After five years, the company is ready to deliver on its promises. The FF91 boasts impressive specs, including 1,050 horsepower, a 130 kWh battery with a range of 381 miles, 200 kW charging capability, and self-driving features. It also promises an impressive 0-60 mph acceleration time of 2.27 seconds, surpassing some of its competitors, such as Tesla, at its original unveiling.
While the FF91’s specifications are still noteworthy, other automakers have caught up and exceeded these figures over the past five years. Nevertheless, Faraday Future has remained committed to delivering the impressive specifications promised in 2017. For example, the company mentioned in the live stream that the battery capacity might be increased to 142 kWh, though this might refer to nominal pack capacity rather than usable capacity.
Faraday Future had initially received over 64,000 reservations within 36 hours of the FF91’s unveiling, but the company later clarified that only 401 reservations were paid while the rest remained unpaid hand-raisers. Therefore, the current reservation status needs to be clarified, as the numbers still need to be updated.
During the live stream event, Faraday Future also discussed its “FF aiHyper 6×4 Architecture 2.0,” highlighting the car’s ability to leverage the strengths of sedans, sports cars, and SUVs while utilizing AI in its software-defined platform. The company introduced its “co-creation platform,” called “The Mission Farad,” a referral program allowing users to earn points by referring friends to download Faraday’s app. These points can be used for various rewards, including future use of Faraday Future vehicles. The company plans to gather customer feedback through this platform and potentially expand it into a sales referral program.
The FF91’s software-defined nature enables various computing options, with a large rear screen and advanced connectivity features. It also includes an infrared camera for facial recognition and offers “spa mode” with reclining seats for added comfort.
Faraday Future aims to position the FF91 as the standard for “Ultimate AI TechLuxury” and targets the ultra-luxury market. However, with a starting price of $309,000, the company faces challenges in a market with increased competition and economic uncertainty. Lucid Motors, another luxury EV startup, already occupies a similar space and is facing difficulties finding buyers at a lower price point.
While Faraday Future deserves credit for bringing the FF91 to market, the live stream event focused more on marketing buzzwords and hype than tangible achievements. The company’s excessive buzzwords and confusing terminology may resonate poorly with potential customers. Faraday Future must overcome these challenges and find buyers willing to invest in its luxurious EV offering.