Reviving Luxury: Will the Cadillac Celestiq EV Restore GM’s Prestige?
After nearly three years since introducing the concept version, Cadillac has officially launched the Celestiq EV, a luxury electric vehicle priced in the mid-$300,000 range that is designed to turn heads. This flagship model aims to reestablish Cadillac’s reputation as the “Standard of the World”. I took the Celestiq for a spin around Los Angeles to determine if it lives up to the hype.
First Impressions of the Cadillac Celestiq EV
Sliding into the driver’s seat of the Cadillac Celestiq is an experience in itself. The interior features:
- Luxurious Leather: The seats are upholstered in buttery leather, offering exceptional comfort. They’re fully adjustable, ensuring a tailored fit.
- Meticulous Craftsmanship: The vehicle’s fit and finish resemble that of high-end watches, with a hand-crafted aesthetic, though many components, including parts of the steering wheel and console, are 3D printed.
Innovative Battery Design and Storage Challenges
Cadillac has set out to create an electric vehicle with no compromises, but the battery pack design posed unique challenges. Unlike the flat battery layout in the Lyriq, the Celestiq features:
- Modules of varying heights, with the front seats having nine-inch tall modules and the rear seats accommodating taller, twelve-inch modules.
- A compact storage compartment that struggles to fit everyday items like wallets and glasses due to the battery placement.
Driving Experience of the Cadillac Celestiq EV
The Celestiq’s striking design catches attention, boasting a graceful silhouette complemented by an LED light signature. Here’s what I experienced while driving:
- Performance: The Celestiq is powered by 655 horsepower and 646 pound-feet of torque, making it a formidable presence on curvy roads.
- Suspension: Despite its size, the vehicle’s air suspension handles rough urban surfaces well, resulting in a smooth ride.
- Handling: The Magnetic Ride Control system enhances driving confidence, providing stability through turns.
Interior Technology and Features
Inside, the Cadillac Celestiq is equipped with:
- High-Resolution Screens: A stunning 55 inches of digital display stretches across the dashboard, with separate screens for passengers.
- Dolby Atmos Sound System: A 38-speaker system delivers an immersive audio experience.
- Smartphone Integration: While Google Built-In offers useful features, the connectivity can be finicky, leading to frustration for users.
Concierge Service and Customization
Each Cadillac Celestiq is handcrafted at GM’s Global Technical Center in Michigan, offering a truly bespoke experience for buyers. During my visit, I had the opportunity to:
- Choose from a vast array of colors and materials, creating a car that reflects personal style.
- Experience a personalized concierge service, catering to every whim, from refreshments to meal preferences.
Market Position and Availability
In the competitive world of ultra-luxury electric vehicles, the Cadillac Celestiq EV stands out, primarily competing with models like the Rolls-Royce Spectre. However, Cadillac plans to produce a limited run of just 25 vehicles for 2025, with most already claimed. For 2026, production numbers will be capped at less than two units per day, making it a rare find in the market.
For more information on Cadillac’s electric offerings, visit the Cadillac electric vehicles page.
Overall, the Cadillac Celestiq EV is a testament to luxury and innovation, but potential buyers should weigh the technology challenges against the vehicle’s many striking features.
