After decades of false starts and tantalizing concepts, Cadillac has officially returned to the world of ultra-luxury vehicles with the flagship Celestiq.
Planned by a concept earlier this year, the Celestiq production includes a 111 kWh battery that powers a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system developing approximately 600 hp (447 kW / 608 hp) and 640 lb-ft (867 Nm) of torque. . This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.8 seconds and travel approximately 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge.
Despite its flagship status, the Celestiq only supports DC fast charging up to 200kW. This has nothing to do with the 350kW capacity offered by the Porsche Taycan and Hyundai Ioniq 5. That’s a big disappointment, but Cadillac noted that the model should be able to hit 126km of range in as little as 10 minutes.
The road to Celestiq: A look back at Cadillac’s previous ultra-luxury concepts
Cadillac says the Celestiq was designed to deliver “the ultimate in driving refinement without sacrifices.” As part of this effort, the model was fitted with adaptive air suspension, magnetic ride control and an active rear steering system that allows the rear wheels to turn up to 3.5 degrees. The rear wheels can turn in the same direction or in the opposite direction of the front wheels to improve low-speed handling or high-speed stability.
That’s just the tip of the ultra-luxury iceberg, as Celestiq Active Roll Control technology and an electric power steering system that automatically adjusts to the ideal steering ratio based on vehicle speed. Engineers also outfitted the flagship with a five-link front and rear suspension that includes isolators that are “precisely tuned to minimize cabin disturbance while allowing for proper road feel and ride response, respecting Cadillac’s promise of isolated precision”.
Cadillac went on to say that the model is based on an “all-new architecture dedicated exclusively to Celestiq.” It is based on the Ultium platform and enables “the ultimate expression of ultra-luxurious and unparalleled customer customization, made possible by advanced manufacturing techniques”. The company didn’t go into specifics, but did note that the car’s underbody features six large, precision sand-cast aluminum components that each help eliminate 30-40 components compared to typical stamped construction.
The flagship also sports 115 3D-printed parts, including window switches, grab handles, console decor, and structural parts. The model also uses “flexible fabrication” which sees “metal sheets…bent and manipulated into the unique shapes required for the Celestiq’s design.”
Putting the platform and powertrain aside, we can’t help but be disappointed with the Celestiq’s appearance. The shape is certainly unique, but sometimes being the odd one out is not a good thing.
That being said, the production model echoes the concept and features a multi-material body that incorporates lightweight carbon fiber. The front follows in the footsteps of the Lyriq and features a fully enclosed grille flanked by Digital Micromirror Device headlights with 1.3 million pixels per side.
Continuing further, there’s a slender windshield that flows into a sloping roof. Speaking of the latter, the model features a smart glass roof divided into four different zones and uses suspended particle device technology to adjust the amount of light entering the cabin.
Rounding out the highlights are an active rear spoiler, power opening and closing doors and 23-inch forged aluminum wheels available with Michelin Pilot Sport EV summer tires only.
The disappointing design continues in the cabin as nothing really says ultra-luxury as Cadillac has opted for a minimalist aesthetic largely devoid of excitement. It avoids the Rolls-Royce “wow factor” and feels rather clinical and bland.
Technology is front and center as there’s a 55-inch screen that spans the full width of the dashboard. It includes a digital instrument cluster and infotainment system for the driver as well as a separate screen for the front passenger.
Speaking of displays, there’s an 11-inch forward command center on the center console as well as an 8-inch rear command center for rear-seat passengers. They are joined by two 12.6-inch screens that form the rear seat entertainment system.
Other highlights include a four-zone climate control system, hand-wrapped leather, and numerous metallic accents that feature “fine milling, anodizing, and final hand polishing.” The interior also features 450 LEDs, a 38-speaker AKG audio system, heated and ventilated seats, heated armrests and a “scarf” system.
The Celestiq will also have an Ultra Cruise semi-autonomous driving system as well as plenty of customization options, as each car will be “personally driven” and no two will be alike. As part of this effort, buyers will “work directly with their selected dealership and Cadillac designers to bring their unique vision for the car to life, with unprecedented levels of customization tailored to reflect the owner’s tastes.”
The Celestiq is expected to enter production in December 2023, and pricing starts “north” of $300,000. The model will be handcrafted in extremely low volumes in Warren, Michigan, despite the plaque stating it is made in Detroit.
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