Fast Facts
-
Lawsuit Details: Former Lucid Motors chief engineer Eric Bach has filed a federal lawsuit alleging wrongful termination, discrimination, and retaliation, claiming he was targeted due to his German heritage.
-
Disparaging Comments: The lawsuit highlights that a top HR executive allegedly referred to Bach as a “German Nazi,” which Lucid reportedly confirmed.
-
Retaliation and Termination: After filing internal complaints about harassment and losing responsibilities during a workplace culture investigation, Bach was ultimately terminated on November 5, 2025.
-
Company Turmoil: Lucid Motors is facing executive turnover and financial challenges while ramping up production for its Gravity SUV, amid a backdrop of significant leadership departures.
Allegations in the Spotlight
The lawsuit filed by Lucid Motors’ former chief engineer, Eric Bach, raises significant concerns about workplace culture in the tech industry. He alleges wrongful termination, discrimination, and retaliation, claiming that a top HR executive referred to him as a “German Nazi.” This serious accusation came to light months after an internal investigation began in early 2025. During this period, Bach faced a reduction in responsibilities related to the powertrain division, which he attributes to discriminatory practices linked to his German heritage.
Bach’s position seemed promising prior to the investigation. He had overseen hardware engineering and product management for a decade. However, after the HR investigation launched in late 2024, he lost key responsibilities and faced exclusion from board meetings. His allegations reveal a troubling narrative of retaliation following his encouragement to a colleague to report inappropriate behavior. In October 2025, he claims the company pressured him to resign, and by November, he was officially let go. Lucid Motors stated he had “departed,” leaving many questions unanswered.
Impact on the Industry
This lawsuit unfolds during a challenging time for Lucid Motors, as the company navigates leadership changes and financial struggles. With executives leaving frequently, including the VP of engineering alongside Bach’s dismissal, the company faces instability. Lucid’s ambition to produce a second vehicle, the Gravity SUV, while also developing more affordable models, adds to the pressure.
Bach asserts that the investigation’s findings were influenced by biased beliefs within HR. This situation illustrates a broader issue within the tech industry: the need for equitable workplaces. As companies like Lucid pursue innovation, they also must prioritize creating inclusive cultures. Discrimination and retaliation can stifle progress and undermine potential talent. The outcome of this lawsuit may hold implications not just for Lucid, but for tech firms striving to foster an environment where all voices matter.
Continue Your Tech Journey
Learn how the Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming everyday life.
Explore past and present digital transformations on the Internet Archive.
TechV1
