The Cadillac Lyriq SUV rides on GMs’ new scalable battery architecture which offers both DC fast-charging and AC domestic connection options for refilling the battery
Stringent emission regulations have a leading role in the paradigm shift towards electric vehicles globally and many big automakers have announced their policies to shift to an electric-only line-up. The luxury EV space is evolving more rapidly than its ICE-powered counterpart, despite a lack of awareness and common misconceptions about electric range and e-technology.
North America is the biggest luxury EV market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the EV projects got delayed to take-off. Cadillac, a subdivision of General Motors, a legendary American automobile manufacturer, had to postpone the production plans of their first electric vehicle for almost two years due to the market conditions affected by COVID – 19.
The company’s front runner into the luxury EV world, the Cadillac Lyriq SUV, rides on GMs’ new scalable battery architecture which offers both DC fast charging and AC domestic connection options for refilling the battery. A new design direction is set for Cadillac’s two vehicles that were developed simultaneously, the Lyriq and the forthcoming Celestiq. Both take some design traits from the brand’s legacy of the 1950’s and revive them for the modern times.
The body shape is that of a big SUV with long bonnet and carved, clean sides. It is visibly larger than Audi E-Tron as it is 4996mm long and the wheelbase stretches to 3093mm. The grille retains trapezoidal shape which has become a regular feature of recent Cadillac models.
Cadillac Lyriq: Enhancing the Premium Feel
The bold digital front has a rich LED lighting pattern as there is no cooling duties for this portion due to lack of an IC engine. The L-shaped lights on the rear pillar reminds you of the Cadillac models with a distinct stature. The Lyriq can be started, opened, locked, and pre-conditioned with the digital key on your smartphone.
The flat Ultium chassis provides plenty of space inside and the interior is classy and refined. The front seats are big enough, and throughout the cabin you can feel a combination of leather, wood, and metal. The single-piece 33-inch screen that curves across the dashboard serves as both a digital instrument display and the infotainment system.
There are no hard buttons inside, other than climate control switches. The infotainment system in the Cadillac Lyriq has wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, wireless charging, five USB-C ports (three up front, two in the back), Wi-Fi, satellite radio, over-the-air updates, and a 19-speaker (including speakers in the front headrests) sound system from AKG.
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, Side Bicyclist Alert, Blind Zone Steering Assist, automatic parking, high-definition 360-degree camera setup, and Cadillac’s hands-free driving system called Super Cruise are the safety features included in the package.
Stylish EV, Tech-Driven Safety & Infotainment Features
The debut edition has a single permanent magnet electric motor and rear-wheel drive having an output is 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The Ultium battery has a new lithium-ion chemistry, particularly low in cobalt. Maximum range at an EPA-estimated is 312 miles.
With DC fast charger, 76 miles of range can be achieved in around 10 minutes. When charging with a 240-volt domestic supply, every hour brings 52 miles of range.
The debut edition, priced at $59,990 is sold out now. A 500-horsepower dual-motor version of the Lyriq with all-wheel drive set up will be available by early 2023.
This all-electric midsize Cadillac Lyriq SUV/crossover, which is up for pre-order, is stylish, and has latest technology especially in terms of safety and infotainment. Above all, it brings forth the next-generation approach to battery development.
