► New electric Cadillac Optiq SUV revealed
► Uses GM’s Ultium platform, claims 300-mile range
► Coming to Europe and the UK market
Cadillac has announced its next pure-electric car: the Optiq. The new SUV will sit alongside the Lyriq crossover as part of its new line-up of EVs that will also launch in Europe and, not long after, the UK.
So much so that the brand launched the Optiq SUV in Paris, with GM Europe president and MD, Jaclyn McQuaid, saying ‘we look forward to providing European specifications and opening sales for Optiq later in 2024.’ The new Optiq will rival the likes of the Audi Q6 e-Tron, Porsche Macan electric and Polestar 3.
The Optiq launches using Cadillac’s modern design cues that are also seen on the Lyriq and Escalade IQ, with a large ‘grille’ arrangement flanked by two verdical headlight strips at the front, large wheels and rear light designs that morph into the bodywork. Inside, the Optiq’s design is very similar to that of the Lyriq, with Cadillac pointing out that it’s ‘the most progressive interior’ the brand has made with a bounty of recycled materials used.
While European specs are still TBC, technology like a massive 33-inch infotainment display that runs a Google-derived system, an AKG audio system and loads of driver assistance tech like GM’s Super Cruise (which we’ve tested in the States) is available. Cadillac says Super Cruise ‘will be available in Europe after it receives the required approvals.’
Under the skin is the General Motors Ultium platform – the one-size-fits-all battery-electric architecture used by all of GM’s brands. For the Optiq in the US market, Cadillac says it features an 85kWh battery pack and features two electric motors generating 300bhp and 354lb ft of torque, and the brand says it estimates a circa-300-mile range.
The Optiq goes into production in the autumn of 2024, and launches in Europe towards the end of the year.