Cadillac Optiq: A New Entry in the Luxury EV Market

 



Cadillac has unveiled its new electric SUV, the Optiq, positioned as an entry-level model below the Lyriq. Manufactured in China, the Optiq aims to compete in the growing electric vehicle (EV) market with a blend of modern design, advanced features, and competitive performance.



Design and Features

The Cadillac Optiq showcases a design that shares many elements with the Lyriq, including a large curved display for infotainment and gauges, and a sleek, aerodynamic exterior with flush door handles and a fully covered grille. The interior features a spacious cabin with a modern layout, including a slim air vent, a row of physical buttons for climate control, and a rotary dial for the screen on the center console. The Optiq also boasts a unique storage cubby below the climate controls​ .

Performance and Specifications

OPTIQ will launch in a standard dual-motor all-wheel drive form, contributing to a fun and athletic driving experience. The 6-inch shorter wheelbase compared to the Cadillac Lyriq results in a more agile architecture. The Optiq is built on the same BEV3 platform as the Chevrolet Equinox EV and Buick Electra, with dimensions making it similar in size to the Cadillac XT5 but with a longer wheelbase.

“With near-instantaneous torque, OPTIQ delivers a unique and spirited driving experience. The Ultium Platform allows us to fit enough muscle into a smaller package to provide a thrilling performance, delivering a sensation of isolated precision,” said John Cockburn, chief engineer.

The Optiq's exceptional aerodynamic performance enables its Cadillac-estimated 300-mile driving range. The revolutionary Ultium Platform and drive units, along with the use of low rolling resistance tires, also play an important role in the impressive range of the vehicle. A vented rear spoiler, diffusers, and other sculptural elements enhance aerodynamics at the rear of the vehicle without compromising the striking SUV design.

The Optiq includes an 85-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a standard dual-motor all-wheel drive propulsion system that offers a Cadillac-estimated 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of instant torque. At full charge, the Optiq offers a Cadillac-estimated 300 miles of range, and DC fast charging can add up to 79 miles of range in about 10 minutes​.

Technological Advancements

OPTIQ offers Regen On Demand, a driver-controlled braking feature that allows the driver to slow down or stop the vehicle with a dedicated, pressure-sensitive paddle located on the steering wheel. One-Pedal Driving allows the driver to slow down and stop the vehicle using only the accelerator under most driving conditions. The system also converts kinetic energy from the vehicle's forward momentum into electricity, which is stored in the battery pack for future use​.

A Dual-Level Charge Cord allows the driver to plug into an appliance-style four-pronged outlet (professional installation required) or a standard three-pronged outlet. The Optiq gives drivers the opportunity to switch between several Drive Modes, including Tour for everyday driving, Sport for enhanced road driving and improved steering, Snow/Ice to prevent wheel spin, and My Mode, which personalizes the driving experience with adjustable braking responsiveness and steering feel​ .

Customer-Focused Tech and Interior

The interior cabin experience of the Optiq was designed to be high-tech, welcoming, and connected. It packages interior spaciousness and luxury into a comfortable suite. Illuminated décor and embellishments add to the Optiq’s unique interpretation of Cadillac luxury, while the suite of in-vehicle technology features creates an intuitive experience.

“OPTIQ’s bold design leverages the Cadillac standard for luxury while remaining youthful, sporty, and innovative. Its expressive detailing, integrated technology, and welcoming interior give drivers a true immersive experience,” said Bryan Nesbitt, executive director, Cadillac Design.

A focus on innovative materials and a new approach to material application and placement creates the most progressive Cadillac interior. Optiq’s patterned accent fabric is woven from yarn made from 100% recycled materials. The PaperWood veneer is made up of equal parts tulip wood and recycled newspaper.

The Optiq interior experience also includes:

  • Segment-best cargo capacity and second-row spaciousness.
  • A 33-inch diagonal advanced LED display with 9k resolution projecting over 1 billion colors.
  • Super Cruise driver assistance technology, standard with three years of connected service, enabled by high-definition GPS mapping, driver attention system, lane-changing capabilities, and steering wheel light bar.
  • Advanced radar, camera, and ultrasonic sensor technology integrated throughout Optiq, enhancing views, sensing, and monitoring of surroundings in various everyday driving scenarios.
  • Standard safety and driver assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Enhanced Automatic Parking, Forward Collision Alert, and more.
  • Google built-in compatibility infotainment experience, featuring Google Maps and Google Assistant.
  • Standard 19-speaker AKG Audio System and Dolby Atmos for an immersive sound experience, featuring custom-tuned speakers and amplifier​.

Market Position and Pricing

Pricing for the Cadillac Optiq starts around $54,000, positioning it higher than the Tesla Model Y Performance, which could present challenges in a competitive EV market. Despite the price point, Cadillac aims to attract buyers with its premium features and brand legacy. The Optiq is expected to be available in the U.S. later this year, following its debut in China​.

SPECIFICATIONS

EFFICIENCY

GM-estimated driving range on a full charge^

300 miles

 

^Actual range will vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age, loading, use and maintenance.
*Cadillac estimates and EPA estimates not yet available.

BATTERY SYSTEM

Type:

Rechargeable energy storage system comprising multiple linked modules 

Battery chemistry:

Lithium-ion NCMA cathode, blended graphite anode

Modules:

10

Energy:

85 kWh Useable Battery Energy

 

ELECTRIC DRIVE

System:

Dual Motor AWD

Motor:

Permanent magnet front; Induction rear

Power^:

300 hp (224 kW)

Torque^:
(lb-ft / Nm):

354 / 480

Final drive ratio (:1):

11.59 front/ 11.0 rear

^Based on GM testing

CHARGING TIMES^

240V (7.7 kW AC)

24 miles per hour

240 V1 (11.5 kW AC)
240 V2 (available 19.2-kW)

33 miles per hour
55 miles per hour

DC Fast Charge

79 miles in 10 minutes

^Actual charge times will vary based on battery condition, output of charger, vehicle settings and outside temperature. See the vehicle's Owner’s Manual for additional limitations.
1Home charging requires professionally installed 60A dedicated charge station, sold separately
2Home charging requires professionally installed 100A dedicated charge station, sold separately.

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

Front Suspension:

Coilover Strut front, 5-Link rear with Passive Plus Dampers

Rear Suspension:

Steering Type:

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

Turning Circle (curb-curb)
(ft. / m):

37ft / 11.25 m  w/ 20” tire
 37.5ft / 11.44 m w/ 21” tire

Brake Type:

Disc / Disc 

Brake Rotor Size:
(in. / mm)

17” front / 17” rear
(432mm)

Wheel Size:

US = 20” standard, 21” optional

Tires:

245/50R20  All Season w/ sealant
 275/40R21 All Season Low Profile w/ sealant

^Lower-profile tires wear faster. Tire and wheel damage may occur on rough or damaged roads or from surfaces, curbs, debris or obstacles. This damage is not covered by the GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty. For more details, go to my.cadillac.com/learnabout/tires or see your dealer.

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase
(in. / mm):

116 / 2954

Overall Length
(in. / mm):

190 / 4820

Overall Width with Mirrors
(in. / mm):

84 / 2126

Overall Height
(in. / mm):

65 / 1644

 

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS

Headroom(in / mm):

Front: 39.6 / 1006
Second Row: 38.7 / 984

Legroom
(in. / mm):

Front: 41.6 /1058
Second Row: 37.8 / 961

Shoulder Room
(in. / mm):

Front: 57 / 1421
Second Row: 56 / 1421

Hip Room
(in. / mm):

Front: 55 / 1397
Second Row: 51 / 1286

 

WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES

Base Curb Weight (Min)
(lb. / kg):

5192 /2,355

Passenger Volume (cu. ft. / L):

Front: 54 / 1538
Second row: 47 / 1336

Cargo Volume
(cu. ft. / L) ^:

Second row up: 26 / 744
Second row down: 57 / 1603

Trailering* capacity

1500 lbs / 680 kg

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