For generations Cadillac made some of the finest sedans, coupes and convertibles available anywhere.
Now GM’s luxury brand is hoping to recapture those glory days as it moves into the EV age with the Cadillac Celestiq.
The handbuilt Celestiq EV is the car that Cadillac hopes will return it to being recognized as “The Standard of the World.
Related: More coverage from the 2023 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance
When it debuts in 2024 it will be the most extravagant and expensive model Cadillac has ever built, with an eye popping base price of more than $300,000.
Each car will be hand crafted to a customer’s specifications, allowing for a much higher level of personalization than most automobiles.”
Infinite color-match options will be available on the biggest sedan I’ve seen Cadillac build since the early 1980s. Customers will even be able to order a leather floor if they so choose.
As you would expect, the Celestiq will also offer some incredible tech, including what Cadillac is billing as the industry’s first smart glass roof that will allow passengers to control the amount of light that comes in through four separate sections.
The rear seats will have their own digital command centers with 8-inch touchscreens along with a four zone climate system.
The list of options and possibilities is too long for this video and post but it’s the type of moonshot vehicle that Cadillac used to known for.
The Celestiq will have an estimated 300 mile range from its 111-kWh battery pack, making about 600 horsepower. Currently Cadillac is estimating 0-60 miles per hour will take about 3.8 seconds.
General Motors had the Celestiq on display right next to Buick’s stunning EV concept at the 2023 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.
In terms of style, the Wildcat concept was my favorite EV on display,
Buick hasn’t committed to building the Wildcat coupe but a GM spokesperson did tell me the Wildcat has been receiving a lot of positive feedback and that Buick does listen to customer opinions.
GM says the Wildcat conveys Buick’s upcoming styling language that will influence its models for the foreseeable future.
One item that will definitely make production is the Wildcat’s new Buick logo.
Although they weren’t turned on during my visit to The Amelia, the Wildcat’s lighting elements are configured to create a unique welcome choreography when the driver approaches. You can see the choreography in action in the video at the top of this post.
Some of the other styling highlights include semi-swing doors for easy entry and exit along with unique aluminum trim that flows seamlessly into the seats.
The last memorable Buick coupe was arguably the Grand National, which ended production after the 1987 model year.
Today Buick doesn’t have a single car left, instead it offers four gas-powered SUVs.
The Wildcat just might be the concept to get Buick back into the car game, but only if GM gives it a chance.
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