The term “Cadillac” hasn’t been used with the same level of reverence as Duesenberg, Rolls-Royce, or Aston Martin for a very long time, and for many people, the events surrounding the 1933 V16 Aerodynamic Coupe and 1957 Eldorado Brougham seem to have never ever occurred. However, with the $300,000 hand-built CELESTIQ now in production, Cadillac might once more have a vehicle deserving of the moniker “Standard of the World.”
According to Global Vice President of Cadillac Rory Harvey, “CELESTIQ is the purest representation of Cadillac, honouring our amazing legacy and guiding us to a bolder and brighter future.” It is the most advanced and cutting-edge technology we have ever incorporated into an automobile, making it a truly unique work of automotive art.
To further emphasize these points, Harvey disclosed that each CELESTIQ would be hand-built in Detroit and wear a specific emblem designating it as one of only a very small number of such expertly produced automobiles.
MADE BY HAND IN DETROIT CELESTIQ will genuinely be a custom-commissioned one-of-one because of the incredibly low volume of hand-built vehicles that will be made available internationally each year and the exclusive declaration process, according to Harvey. Every customer will go on a customised path to have their vehicle precisely how they want it.
Each of those wealthy customers will receive a coachwork vehicle built on GM’s tried-and-true Ultium Platform, outfitted with a 111 kWh lithium-ion battery and a two-motor, all-wheel-drive drive system capable of producing 600 HP and more than 640 lb-ft of torque — more than enough to compete with the opulent new Rolls-Royce Spectre.
The CELESTIQ has a number of fascinating technical features, which we’ve listed below, that GM highlighted in their official release. Take a look, then let us know in the comments what you think of this pricey Caddy.
Adaptive Air Suspension: CELESTIQ utilizes an air suspension technology as opposed to the typical suspension system’s coiled springs. For better ride quality, air suspension provides a softer, more isolated ride when compared to traditional suspension systems. Active Rear Steering: CELESTIQ will provide up to 3.5 degrees of out-of-phase rear steering, which increases mobility at low speeds by having the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels. The rear wheels will turn in sync with the front wheels at higher speeds. A defining Cadillac engineering breakthrough, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, will have a new home in CELESTIQ. The system, which was initially created for the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology, allowing for improved isolation from road irregularities and increased responsiveness. CELESTIQ provides a two-motor electric drive unit for advanced AWD. These motors use torque optimizer modules, which examine the necessary torque for specific vehicle inputs. These modules control the front or rear motors, turning them on or off as needed to deliver the best torque for improving the ride and the range of an electric vehicle. The Active Roll Control feature, a Cadillac first, significantly contributes to the car’s agile handling. It makes use of stabilizer bars that are integrated into the front and back of the chassis to lessen the rolling force that is applied to the car during turns and other movements, improving stability, control, and occupant comfort. The CELESTIQ Active Rear Spoiler elevates more at greater speeds to aid in maintaining the vehicle’s balance while also deploying at lower speeds to help with aerodynamic efficiency. With a focus on the ride, CELESTIQ will have 23-inch forged aluminum wheels with 23-inch Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires that are exclusive to the summer season. Strong rolling resistance performance and precise steering are also benefits of this combination. The tread pattern, self-sealing technology, and foam inserts provide a quiet tire for improved ride isolation and were specifically developed for Cadillac. Electric Power Steering: The CELESTIQ is equipped with a variable ratio front electric power steering system, akin to what is found on Cadillac Blackwings but calibrated specifically for CELESTIQ. This system works in conjunction with active rear steering to automatically adjust to the ideal steering ratio depending on vehicle speed, providing a fun and intuitive driving experience. CELESTIQ’s 5-link front and rear suspension offers outstanding performance that is especially suited for the high torque output of an electric vehicle engine. Delivering on Cadillac’s promise of isolated precision, the suspension isolators are precisely calibrated to reduce cabin disturbances while allowing adequate road feel and handling responsiveness. PHOTO GALLERY FOR THE CADILLAC CELESTIQ
Image source: GM.
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