EVs continue to create a major buzz in the auto industry, with plenty of the upcoming big SUVs being tipped to run on electric power. The latest entrant in this club is Cadillac's mammoth SUV: the Escalade IQ. The vehicle, which is currently being redesigned to be part of GM's all-electric future, is set to be unveiled in New York City. Cadillac released new images and a teaser video in anticipation of its announcement.
The Reveal and Teaser Leaves Much to Imagination
Cadillac's preview of the makeover it is doing to its biggest SUV– and biggest moneymaker– just offers a few glimpses of the vehicle. The teaser image shows the front part of the SUV shrouded in darkness, with the only things you can make up being the headlights, logo, and side mirrors.
Cadillac also posted a brief teaser video on its YouTube channel, primarily focusing on the same elements evident in the earlier image. The shadowy view, however, gives a glimpse of the size of the full-size SUV and several hints about some of its other front parts. This includes a vertical front lighting design, similar to those found on the Lyriq midsize SUV, and an illuminated faux grille.
Some other parts evident in the teaser video are the upcoming SUV's wheels and a partial view of the roof. The wheels will resemble those showcased on the Cadillac's upcoming $300,000 Celestiq. A quick peek through the sunroof suggests that the Escalade IQ could also have a full-width screen across its dashboard.
What to Expect
While Cadillac is yet to release the full details about the features and specs of its upcoming Escalade IQ, some aspects are easy to deduce. The car will differ completely from the current version, which is powered by an internal combustion engine. It will rely on the same Ultium vehicle platform that GM is using for the Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup and the GMC Hummer EV.
GM unveiled the Ultium electric motors in 2021, when the company hinted about its all-electric future. It has a vast lineup of upcoming electric models that it plans to base on the battery-powered platform, including the Escalade IQ. The company is building the vehicles at its Factory Zero Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center in Michigan. Earlier, GM had stated that it was rebuilding the factory as the "launchpad" for its EV strategy.
The new Ultium batteries are large-format, pouch-style cases, typically packed horizontally or vertically within a battery pack. This means that you can expect the new Escalade IQ to have a driving range of about 500 miles on a full charge, with energy options that range from 50 to 200 kWh.
Cadillac's Brave Electric Future
Earlier this year, Cadillac's VP stated that the company will unveil three electric models this year, with plans to start producing them in the coming year. While he didn't specify the type of vehicles back then, he did say that some of the cars would be sold in various markets worldwide. After the company Escalade IQ preview, it is evident that the SUV is one of the cars he was talking about.
Back in 2020, when GM announced its EV onslaught, it discussed the flagship Cadillac Celestiq and the Cadillac Lyriq SUV. For now, only Celestiq's production is confirmed to start this year in December. Other EV models in Cadillac's plans include a three-row SUV and a small crossover.
Looking To Buy a Cadillac SUV?
While it may still take some time before you lay your hands on the upcoming Escalade IQ, there are plenty of other impressive Cadillac SUVs you can buy. From the iconic Escalade to crossovers such as XT5 and XT4, you can see them up close at our car dealership. Contact us at (941) 932-8852 or pass by today to make an inquiry.
