#Ultium Platform | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

caddyedge · 3 months ago

Text

Meet the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ

Cadillac spent some time in New York to show off the next Escalade. The name is familiar, but this is an Escalade unlike any that have come before.

As expected and teased, the new ESCALADE will sport an ‘IQ’ suffix (as well as the same stuck caps-lock key Cadillac uses on all their electrics and we use here to help differentiate) to denote its electric powertrain and tie it in with other electrics we have seen such as the LYRIQ and CELESTIQ.

Built on GM’s evolving Ultium platform, the new big SUV will have a double-layer, 200kWh battery pack similar to that used in the GMC Hummer truck and SUV. The ESCALADE will have standard all-wheel drive via dual electric motors (one up front and one out back) for a combined maximum of 750hp.

The overall styling of the new ESCALADE keeps with Cadillac’s current design aesthetic looking much like a LYRIQ that has spent a lot of time pumping iron. Lost are some of the gas Escalade’s tall profile, squared roofline, and sharply chiseled front end, in search of improved aero performance and the extra range that comes with it.

But, in return for that sleeker look…the IQ comes with a 460 miles of estimated range. Ultium battery pack and architecture brings the ability to add 100 miles of range in 10 minutes on sufficiently beefy DC fast charging.

Those dual electric motors moving this beefy Cadillac along also bring performance previously unheard of in a version of the Escalade not followed by a ‘V’. 0-60mph in under 5 seconds which is not far from the Escalade V’s 4.4 seconds (assuming Cadillac doesn’t revise their acceleration numbers before the IQ goes on sale).

This new ESCALADE takes the previous Escalade’s interior tricks and ups them again. Remember the current Escalade was the first Cadillac to have a long screen that extended 38 inches from the instruments to where many cars put an entertainment screen. The ESCALADE IQ says ‘Hold my beer’ and comes to the game with a 55-inch monster. In addition to the previous screen that ran from the driver to the center of the dash, the IQ continues on with a screen in front of the passenger.

Additionally, like the CELESTIQ we have seen before, virtual controls live on a square touch-screen in front of a physical wheel that can be used to move from function to function. When combined with the Executive Seating option, a similar control screen is also available in the rear cabin. That option includes stowable tray tables, 12.6-inch-diagonal personal screens, dual wireless phone charging pads, USB-C and HDMI ports, massaging seats, and headrest speakers. No word on if a partridge in a pear tree will be available as well.

This fancy interior is wrapped in a shell that is both familiar and not like any Escalade we have seen before. However, for context, it may be valuable to compare the new SUV to the old if only to differentiate from the similarly styled LYRIQ. Stats here are in inches and cubic feet in honor of the market that will likely buy the most of these.

Escalade ESCALADE IQ : LENGTH 211.9 224.3 WIDTH 81.1 85.3 HEIGHT 76.7 76.1 HEADROOM FRONT ROW 42.3 43.5 HEADROOM 2ND ROW 38.9 39.9 HEADROOM 3RD ROW 38.2 37.2 LEGROOM FRONT ROW 44.5 45.2 LEGROOM 2ND ROW 41.7 41.3 LEGROOM 3RD ROW 34.9 30.1 CARGO VOLUME BEHIND 3RD ROW 25.5 23.7 CARGO VOLUME 3RD ROW FOLDED 72.9 69.1 CARGO VOLUME ALL ROWS FOLDED 121 119.2

What this exposes about the new ESCALADE IQ is that it is over 1 foot longer than the gas-powered model. It is wider by over 4 inches. But, it is just over half an inch shorter. This allows for better headroom in the front two rows but less headroom in the seldom-used third row. We have heard rumors of an ESCALADE IQL that will likely be the right choice for people who need maximum room all the way through the rear-most seats.

The IQL will also be the right choice for cargo as the new ESCALADE sacrifices close to 2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, almost 4 with the third row folded, but only 2 again with all rear seats down (likely to the lower roofline over the gas SUV). The L will almost certainly sacrifice space compared to the Escalade ESV but will be the right choice for drivers looking for the biggest electric SUV money can buy.

However, to make up for some of that lost cargo room is a 12 cubic foot front trunk where the current Escalade stashes its V8 engine. It certainly will be helpful for smaller items or anything that requires additional security over being stored in a more exposed SUV cargo hold.

So, how much will such a full-featured, long range, high performance electric Escalade set you back?

$128000 in base trim. Better equipped versions, like shown on Cadillac.com, carry an MSRP of almost $160000.

For comparison, the current Escalade starts just under $84000 with the ESV starting at almost $87000 for all those extra cubic feet of volume. Stepping up to V spec starts all the way up at $152000.

So, while price conscious Escalade buyers might not like the new ESCALADE IQ’s starting price nor as its prices extend into the current V spec range - it does seem quite in line with what you get for your dollar - especially as you consider V spec performance and a higher spec interior than the gas-powered models.

ESCALADE IQ goes on sale in late 2024.

0 notes

jrnerad · 4 months ago

Text

Testing 2 New Electric SUVs: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70

The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV and the recently renewed 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70 represent two different approaches to solving the electric vehicle puzzle. The Equinox EV is built on the General Motors Ultium dedicated battery-electric vehicle platform, while the Electrified GV70 leverages the conventionally powered GV70 body, chassis, and interior. Each approach has its pluses and…

#2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV #2024 Genesis Electrified GV70 #2024 Lexus RZ #Alphabet #Cynthia Tenhouse #Elon Musk #Lexus Guest Experience #Oscar Mayer #Rivian #robotaxi #Self-driving #tesla #Waymo #Wienermobile

0 notes

shautopartsblog · 6 months ago

Text

By 2025, the New Bolt will be the Most Affordable Electric Vehicle in the United States

Source: Gasgoo

According to foreign media reports, as more and more automakers begin to release low-cost electric vehicles, GM believes it has found its answer. Marissa West, GM’s new North American president, said that by 2025, the company’s upcoming next-generation Chevrolet Bolt will be “the most affordable electric vehicle available in the U.S. market.”

As of the first quarter of 2024, the cheapest electric car in the U.S. market, including various discounts, is the Nissan Leaf, which costs $27,956. In second place is the Nissan Ariya, which starts at $35,556; The Hyundai IONIQ 6 came in third at $36,506. The Tesla Model 3 is in fourth place, with a starting price of $40,547.

GM hasn’t announced pricing for the new Bolt, but to be the “most affordable” car on the market, it will have to be cheaper than the Leaf.

Image source: GM Bolt

At the same time, a number of automakers, including Ford, Kia, Jeep and others, have promised to launch low-cost electric models soon. Other affordable electric cars, such as the Volvo EX30, start at $34,950 and are expected to hit the U.S. market this summer.

After the strong response to the old Bolt, GM CEO Mary Barra previously confirmed that the next generation of Bolt electric vehicles based on its Ultium platform is in the works. Barra said the Bolt will have a “better driving, charging and owning experience.”

Barra also mentioned that the new Bolt will be the company’s first Ultrenergy model to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, a move that will help keep prices low.

Last December, the old Bolt was discontinued, and now GM hopes to bring the popular electric car back to the market in 2025 to meet consumer demand for low-cost electric vehicles. With 62,000 Bolt units sold last year, accounting for more than 82 percent of GM’s total electric vehicle sales, electric vehicles remain an important part of GM’s strategy.

West, who took over as GM’s North American president in January, said in a recent interview that the company is “very excited” about the Bolt’s return to the market.

“We’re really excited to see that by 2025, the Bolt with Ultrenergy architecture will be the most affordable car on the market,” West explained.

West said GM will continue to “build on the momentum” and continue to develop the Bolt. With the Ultrenergy platform, Bolt will be “better than ever.” She added: “It will have great styling, great range and great charging time.”

0 notes

gadgetsboy · 6 months ago

Text

Cadillac Unveils the 2025 OPTIQ

The race for premium EVs continues - General Motors' Cadillac brand has just announced its new 2025 OPTIQ model, which it describes as a "reimagination of what entry to Cadillac luxury can be." Sure enough, the veteran auto maker is confident that the new OPTIQ will be able to sway buyers who are on the fence about investing in a luxury SUV, which does come with competitive pricing as well. According to the company, the OPTIQ will be made available worldwide including 10 regions in Europe where the car made its debut. Cadillac is planning to launch the OPTIQ's arrival in Paris, and will provide European specifications and opening sales for the new SUV within this year. With all that being said, what can consumers expect from Cadillac's latest SUV? Let's check it out. Performance and Design The OPTIQ will be available in standard dual motor AWD form, with an aerodynamic performance that Cadillac says allows it to reach an estimated 300-mile driving range in the U.S. The vehicle also feature the Ultium Platform and Ultium Drive units, which work in tandem with low rolling resistance tires which allow it to achieve such a range. Cadillac says that its design incorporates several elements including a vented rear spoiler, diffusers, and other sculptural elements which enhance its overall aerodynamics, without straying too much from a traditional (but modern) SUV design. The 2025 OPTIQ's standard dual motor all-wheel drive system is powered by an 85-kilowatt-hour battery, which offers an estimated 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. In addition to the 300-mile range estimate, there's also DC fast charging which can add up to 79 miles in 10 minutes. Meanwhile, Regen on Demand allows for manual slowing with a steering wheel paddle, while One-Pedal Driving simplifies stopping and regenerates energy. Drivers can also choose between a selection of different Drive Modes including Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and a customizable My Mode. Luxury In and Out The car's interior comes with a high-tech look combined with a considerably spacious layout, featuring materials like recycled fabric and wood-paper composite veneers which make for an elegantly-designed look. In addition to a roomy cargo area and second row, the OPTIQ also features a large 33-inch, 9k resolution infotainment display that provides access to Google Maps and Assistant, and there's also a 19-speaker AKG audio system for clear and immersive sound. For safety, the 2025 OPTIQ includes standard Super Cruise driver assistance (with availability varying by region), advanced camera and sensor technology, and a suite of active safety features. As for what's on the outside, the Cadillac OPTIQ 2025 boasts a sleek-looking exterior with a fixed-glass roof for a panoramic view, a black crystal grille featuring a laser-etched pattern which does add a nice futuristic touch, and a unique rear quarter panel window design with acoustic laminate glass. The OPTIQ will be available in two distinctive trims which consist of Luxury and Sport; Pricing in the US starts at estimated $54,000, although this will be subject to dealer prices. Read the full article

0 notes

nikjmiles · 6 months ago

Video

vimeo

Electric Pickup Trucks: The Next Frontier of EVs_NEWS from Test Miles on Vimeo.

As electric vehicles (EVs) charge full-speed ahead, a new frontier emerges: electric pickup trucks. These beasts, which once guzzled gallons of petrol, are now poised to conquer the electric highway, promising robust performance, lower maintenance, and eco-friendly credentials. But are they really the game-changer automakers claim? Buckle up as we explore the electric pickup revolution, from the pioneers to the up-and-comers. Why Electric Pickup Trucks Matter Electric pickups aren’t just a fad; they’re a practical evolution. With electric motors generating immense torque, these trucks are tailor-made for hauling, towing, and off-road adventures. Their hefty frames can house substantial battery packs, offering impressive ranges—many exceeding 300 miles per charge. For fleet buyers, the allure is clear: lower maintenance costs and reduced fuel expenses. Plus, their capability to power worksite tools directly from the truck's battery adds another layer of practicality. Given that commercial trucks clock more road hours than typical cars, their transition to electric can significantly slash greenhouse gas emissions. The Electric Trailblazers Leading the charge are three notable entries. First on the scene was Rivian’s R1T in 2022, an innovative truck featuring a unique Gear Tunnel for extra storage. Following closely was the GMC Hummer EV Pickup, a behemoth known for its extreme capabilities and party tricks like the Crab Walk. Not to be outdone, Ford rolled out the F-150 Lightning, a versatile model spanning from basic work trucks to luxury-loaded variants. What's on the Horizon? 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV Chevrolet’s 2024 Silverado EV promises up to 400 miles per charge and a whopping 754 horsepower. With a Wide Open Watts mode that zips from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, it’s as quick as it is powerful. This Ultium-platform truck will offer a Crew Cab design and versatile features like a frunk and a midgate for transporting long items. Ram Revolution EV The Ram 1500 Revolution concept made its splash at CES, boasting a 350-500 mile range and unique elements like a three-row cabin and Shadow Mode, where the truck follows the driver. Production is set for 2024, potentially featuring a range extender—a first among mainstream electric trucks. GMC Sierra EV GMC’s second electric truck, the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1, aims for an early 2024 debut. Mirroring the Silverado’s specs but wrapped in a more traditional guise, it offers 754 horsepower, 9,500 pounds of towing capacity, and lightning-fast charging capabilities. Canoo Pickup The Canoo Pickup, a standout with its forward-control design and compact yet spacious build, faced an uncertain future as the company pivoted to government contracts. Its 500+ horsepower and 200-mile range made waves, but production timelines remain elusive. Volkswagen Scout EV Reviving the iconic Scout name, Volkswagen plans a 2026 debut for its off-road-ready electric pickup. This American-made, 300-horsepower truck aims for a 400-mile range and a $40,000 starting price. Toyota Electric Tacoma Rumors suggest an electric Tacoma could be on the horizon for 2024. This smaller, more affordable pickup would fill a niche below pricier models like the F-150 Lightning, appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking a rugged EV. The Contrarians While the big names charge ahead, several startups offer exciting, if uncertain, prospects. Companies like Alpha Motors with their Wolf series and EdisonFuture with their EF1-T showcase innovative designs and capabilities, yet their market entries remain speculative. The Bottom Line Electric pickup trucks symbolize a significant shift in automotive technology, merging utility with sustainability. As legacy automakers and bold startups vie for dominance, consumers stand to benefit from a diverse, competitive market. Whether they become the backbone of commercial fleets or the darling of adventure enthusiasts, electric pickups are set to redefine what these workhorses can do—one silent, torque-filled mile at a time.

0 notes

autoexplored · 1 year ago

Text

2024 Honda Prologue Mid Size EV SUV|Launched In United States

The 2024 Honda Prologue represents Honda’s upcoming venture into the world of all-electric SUVs. This vehicle is set to debut with cutting-edge technology and features. It will be constructed on GM’s Ultium platform, a robust foundation for electric vehicles, and is anticipated to offer an impressive EPA-estimated driving range of 300 miles on a single charge. Powering the Prologue is an 85 kWh…

View On WordPress

#2024 Honda Prologue

0 notes

alicecharlotte · 1 year ago

Text

Review: New 2025 GMC Sierra Pickup Truck

The GMC Sierra 1500 is actually a synonym for "Chevrolet Silverado." Under all that chrome and paint, the two full-size pickups have comparable mechanical prowess, despite their distinct exterior designs.

The Sierra 1500 is available as a single cab, double cab, or four-door crew cab, just like the Chevrolet 1500. The bed length ranges from 5.8 to 8.2 feet. A base turbocharged four-cylinder, a hefty Duramax diesel, a 5.3-liter V-8, and a 6.2-liter V-8 are all available as powertrain options.

The Sierra 1500 ranks highly on two significant rankings. It has a maximum conventional towing capacity of 13,200 pounds, making it one of the strongest pickups in its class.

Even though the Sierra offers a large touchscreen and more leather than ever before in its cockpit, it cannot match the Ram 1500's interior elegance.

Introducing New Sierra

The 2025 GMC Sierra will likely usher in the next iteration of full-size pickup trucks. Notably, the vehicles of the next generation will feature new powertrains.

During a recent GM Investor Event, General Motors President Mark Reuss discussed the automaker's efforts to boost fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions with the forthcoming next-generation pickups.

Reuss stated that new powertrains with significant enhancements in efficiency and performance would be included. The next update to our engine portfolio for our next-generation full-size vehicles will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 10 percent compared to our current offerings.

In addition to updated powertrain options, the 2025 GMC Sierra will feature all-new exterior and interior designs and a completely new platform.

The next-generation GMC Sierra will not use the same platform as the GMC Hummer EV SUV and Hummer EV Pickup, which use GM's Ultium battery technology and Ultium drive technology.

Transmission, Engine, and Performance

The Sierra is offered with four distinct engines, two transmission options, and either rear- or four-wheel drive. The standard engine is a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 310 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It has an automatic transmission with eight speeds.

There are two available V-8 engines: a 5.3-liter with 355 horsepower and a 6.2-liter with 420 horsepower. A torque-rich diesel six-cylinder engine produces 460 lb-ft of torque. Each engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

On our test track, a fully-equipped Denali Ultimate with a 6.2-liter V-8 accelerated to 60 miles per hour in just 5.4 seconds. The Sierra 1500 is also available with adaptive dampers and rims measuring up to 22 inches in diameter.

While the Sierra lacks the off-road prowess of the high-flying Ford F-150 Raptor, it does offer two off-road-specific models. The robust AT4 model features a 2.0-inch suspension lift and other trail-worthy features.

The AT4X shares several features with the Silverado ZR2, such as advanced spool-valve dampers, electronic-locking front and rear differentials, additional skid plates, and 18-inch black rims with gnarly off-road tires.

A steel front bumper with a winch, AEV 18-inch rims, and steel rock sliders are included as part of the AT4X AEV package. The Sierra has a rougher ride than the Ram 1500, but it maneuvers exceptionally well due to its responsive steering and limited body roll.

Production Release

We expect the 2025 GMC Sierra to debut in the United States in the autumn of 2024. The following manufacturers are anticipated to continue producing the Sierra 2025:

GM Flint Assembly, located in Flint, Michigan, United States of America (HD)

(LD) GM Fort Wayne Assembly in Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States of America.

Mexico's GM Silao Assembly (LD)

#gmcsierra #gmctrucks #automotive #cars review

0 notes

cavenewstimes · 1 year ago

Text

General Motors wants to predict when battery fires might happen

Through a new acquisition, GM now has software that can identify anomalies in EV cells. By Charlotte Hu | Published Jul 6, 2023 6:00 PM EDT The Ultium platform supports GM’s EV architecture and includes the battery cells, modules and pack, plus drive units containing electric motors and integrated power electronics. GMC / GM Last week, General Motors (the company that owns the Chevrolet,…

View On WordPress

0 notes

tantragyaan · 1 year ago

Text

Cadillac Escalade IQ, 2024 BMW 4-Series, Rivian gets Tesla charge port: Today's Car News

GM announced the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ will debut on Aug. 9. The electric Escalade will roll into New York City for its debut, but production won’t kick off until 2024. The Escalade IQ will share its Ultium platform and component set with the Chevy Silverado EV, GMC Hummer EV, and GMC Sierra EV. The 2024 BMW 4-Series coupe underwent track testing on the Nürburgring. Set to receive a mid-cycle…

View On WordPress

0 notes

caddyedge · 1 year ago

Text

Cadillac's Electric Strategy - What Do We Know?

Cadillac announced that it would become an all-electric brand by 2030 and confirmed that no new gas-powered models were under development.

Cadillac is no stranger to advancing the state of the art in automotive engineering and design. In its 120-year history, Cadillac rolled out many technologies we consider obvious today, but in their time were revolutionary.

Some examples of Cadillac leading the way include interchangeable parts (demonstrating the ability to take cars apart, scramble the parts, and put together a fully functioning car), electric starters, automatic air conditioning, theft deterrent systems, as well cylinder deactivation. So, it should be no surprise that GM would use Cadillac to push its electrification plans forward.

This started back in April 2021, when Cadillac announced its LYRIQ SUV. About the size of the XT5, this all-electric Cadillac served not only to usher in a new platform and powertrain but also the end of Cadillac’s naming scheme (which has been with us since the original CTS in 2003).

How will a company that was making high-performance, fire-breathing machines with great Nurburgring times change course?

What does an all-electric Cadillac brand look like?

How will this shift affect dealers and consumers?

To understand Cadillac’s plans, we need to start with GM’s overall electric car strategy.

General Motors has decided that electric propulsion is the future and is positioning itself to be a leader in electric vehicle technology. Previous offerings from the company such as the Chevy Bolt and the Spark EV, have been gas-powered platforms handed over to a partner (in this case LG) to re-engineer with electric power trains. They were a hedge while they waited to see if the market was really going to move towards electrification.

Once GM determined that electric cars were the proper strategy, they began work on future models that are more ambitious. These mark a move to EVs that are designed and engineered from scratch to be electric.

New models are designed from the ground up to take full advantage of the flexibility of the electric components. These new models are optimized to be electric and therefore not limited by needing to support gas powertrains. Additionally, GM has been working to develop its own electric motors and battery technologies rather than depending on the expertise of suppliers.

This use of an electric vehicle native strategy means that GM should be able to bring EVs to market with fewer compromises. This differs from what some other companies have been doing. Witness BMW’s electric strategy where new models are designed to support gas powertrains and electric propulsion in the same models.

This multiple powertrain strategy leads to platforms that support a large battery pack, electric motor(s), and all the supporting power management components of an electric car. Additionally, these same platforms need to be designed for gas or diesel engines as well.

This compromise results in a platform where electric powertrain models have provisions for all the air/fuel/exhaust routing they do not need. It also means that traditional powertrain models have provisions for a giant battery pack - despite not having one. At the very least this means inefficiency in their designs.

GM’s electric vehicle strategy is different. Marketed as Ultium, this is an electric-only design that does not have the ability to use traditional powertrains and their ancillary systems.

Ultium architecture underpins all of GM’s new electric vehicles from the GMC Hummer EV, several models of Chevrolet, all the way to the Cadillac LYRIQ and CELESTIQ. All use similar battery pack technology and electric motors. This shared engineering gives economies of scale that help drive the cost of GM’s EVs down.

GM has decided that the transition to electric is going to mean offering both traditional gas-powered models and their electric replacements side-by-side for a time. Multiple models are being marketed and sold, in some cases (see the Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado, and Equinox) alongside a new Ultium-based EV with a very similar name (for example, Blazer EV, Silverado EV, and Equinox EV). For Cadillac that means the XT5 and the very similarly sized LYRIQ.

Apparently, the confusion and extra marketing dollars spent with two different vehicles with similar names or market positions are considered acceptable during this transition.

So, given this strategy at the corporate level, what is Cadillac going to be doing in the remaining years of the decade to get to the all-electric model lineup?

First, we can look for clues in GM’s recent trademark filings. As mentioned in recent news, Cadillac is going to standardize with model names that all end in -IQ. We have already seen this in the LYRIQ and CELESTIQ as well as the recent announcement of an electric Escalade, the ESCALADE IQ. Trademarks also reveal a the name of a long-wheelbase Escalade, the ESCALADE IQL.

Other names we know are coming for Cadillac’s new models are:

VISTIQ LUMISTIQ ASCENDIQ SYMBOLIQ OPITQ

We can look at the current lineup and see what Cadillac needs to replace.

CT4 CT5 CT6 - This is still on sale in China. A new sedan between the CT5 and CELESTIQ would be a nice addition to the North American market. CELESTIQ XT4 XT5 - already replaced nicely by the LYRIQ XT6 ESCALADE IQ and IQL - to replace the Escalade and Escalade ESV

It is anyone’s guess which name would fit each product segment, but it is interesting to see the trademark filing gives us a name for practically every model in the current lineup. It could suggest that each sedan may get an electric replacement in the spirit of the CELESTIQ.

Spy photographers have also seen SUVs smaller and larger than the LYRIQ in testing (so matching up with expected XT4 and XT6 replacements).

It is also possible that this transition could allow Cadillac to remake certain products by rethinking what the market wants - perhaps this means some change for current CT4 and CT5 buyers (since sedan sales have been dropping quickly for years now).

There are rumors floating around that Cadillac plans to have 8 all-electric offerings on sale by the end of 2026, much like the list above. This suggests that the current gas-powered cars will start to be phased out shortly thereafter. However, this also allows Cadillac the flexibility to keep profitable gas cars in showrooms between 2026 and 2030 if sales of electrics do not immediately grow. Slow growth could come from customer reluctance, but also from limitations in the supply chain that could constrain how many of the new Cadillacs they can build.

In the meantime, the gas powered models won’t be left completely alone. For instance, the XT4 crossover was recently freshened. It should be no surprise that the XT5, XT6, and Escalade see freshenings in the next 2-3 years before they ultimately sunset. We should also expect CT4 and CT5 to also get updates as well - perhaps even bringing styling more in line with the CELESTIQ.

So, that covers the basic logistics of converting the brand…but if Cadillac was just replacing gas cars and SUVs with electrics…what is going to drive customers to want them?

Ultium is not only an electric-first strategy to build a new platform with many common parts to cut costs. The Ultium cars also bring support for the latest technologies that luxury buyers expect. Every Cadillac on the new architecture will natively be able to support GM’s Super Cruise and Ultra Cruise autonomous driving tech. They will have cellular connectivity and modern computers that will enable GM to repair issues or offer new features ‘Over the Air’ (OTA) - i.e. without a trip to the dealer.

Imagine new driving modes, more autonomous driving features, or even more power - all available with the same ease as updating your cell phone’s software.

Electric motors can have massive power and instant torque - making it likely that the electric Cadillac line will be the fastest cars the brand has ever offered. With easily offered all-wheel drive (an electric motor at each end that is connected via software provides a simple and highly effective method to provide all-weather capability and high performance) - the V-Series and V-Series Blackwing will likely still be offered.

Modern battery and charging technology also means that rapid recharging and gas-car competitive range will be available. Expect 300+ miles of range in normal driving with the ability to DC Fast Charge in 15-20 minutes on road trips at public charging stations. Given GM’s recent announcement that they will support Tesla’s charging standard (North American Charging Standard - NACS), Cadillac will have access to the widespread Tesla Supercharger network making cross-country travel nearly as good as traveling in a gas car - and getting better every month.

‘Nearly’ means that Cadillac buyers will have some adjustments to make, but not away from high performance, high technology, and luxury. The adjustment will be learning how to operate and care for cars that are fast and fun but trade it for a more leisurely ‘refueling’ experience. This may be offset by getting a home charger installed so your Cadillac is always fully charged and ready to go when you leave home. A number of customers might never have to stop at a gas station again. However, recharging times will need to be considered during long road trips - where charging should be coordinated with meal stops, hotel stays, or shopping - so the time doesn’t feel wasted.

Dealers will need to train their staff on the strengths of the new models. They will be the front line for helping customers understand what ‘going electric’ will mean for them. They could easily turn out to be Cadillac’s lynchpin and could make or break a successful transition of the century-old company to new technology.

Our electric Cadillac future is coming fast. While it may seem unsettling, the technology is maturing rapidly and the new electric models promise to do all the fun things we expect from the Cadillac brand while setting up exciting products for decades to come.

Cadillac’s first 120 years were of a brand that moved transportation forward. It looks like their future will be more of the same.

0 notes