Three years ago, Cadillac trademarked the Optiq name and now it is finally time to use it in a production model. The all-new Cadillac Optiq is a fully electric SUV that is expected to go on sale in China in the second half of 2023, positioned below the Lyriq.
According to the spec sheet from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Optiq measures 4,822 mm (189.8 inches) long, 1,912 mm (75.3 inches) wide, and 1,642 mm (64.6 inches) tall with a wheelbase of 2,954 mm (116.3 inches). This makes it 174 mm (6.9 inches) shorter than the Lyriq but similar in size to the ICE-powered XT5 (189.6 in / 4,815 mm long with a 112.5 in. / 2,857 mm wheelbase).
More: Cadillac Spied Testing Baby Lyriq Electric SUV In The USA
The exterior of the Optiq has many references to the Lyriq, but also integrates styling cues from Cadillac’s ICE-powered range. The aerodynamic silhouette is combined with flush door handles and a fully covered grille. At the front, the slim DRLs are connected with vertically-stacked LED headlights next to the bumper intakes.
The sculpted profile has a full-width greenhouse, 20-inch alloy wheels, and glossy black cladding matching the front and rear bumpers. Finally, the tail is characterized by a wide stance and large LED taillights with additional strips on the sides of the rear glass.
In China, the Cadillac Optiq will be available with a single electric motor, which comes in two power outputs. The first option produces 201 horsepower (150 kW / 204 PS), while the second offers 241 horsepower (180 kW / 245 PS). The specific details regarding the Optiq’s battery capacity have not been disclosed, but it is sourced from a SAIC-CATL lithium-ion battery pack. The top speed of the Optiq is limited to 180 km/h (112 mph). However, further information about its acceleration and range figures is currently unavailable.
The Optiq is one of the three Cadillac EVs set to debut in 2023. The electric SUV will be manufactured in Wuhan, China by SAIC as part of the joint venture with GM.
Will It Be Offered In North America?
Cadillac Electric SUV spied in the USA (Photos Baldauf)
While it remains uncertain whether General Motors intends to introduce the Cadillac Optiq in the United States, potentially leading to an additional production facility in North America, there are striking resemblances to a recent prototype spotted in the country.
Although the heavy camouflage makes it challenging to discern specific details, the two models appear to be remarkably similar. Moreover, Cadillac executives have confirmed that at least one of the three planned EVs slated for this year will be produced in multiple locations.
