The quarter panel behind the rear passenger door is another hallmark of the Optiq and is made using laminated glass.
Inside, the EV majors on technology and luxury materials. The dashboard is dominated by a 33in horizontal LED display with 9K resolution. This houses the digital driver’s display and touchscreen infotainment system, which is supported by Google, and controls a 19-speaker sound system.
The Optiq will get Cadillac’s Super Cruise driver assistance technology, which features a driver attention monitoring system, autonomous lane-changing capabilities and a steering-wheel light bar.
Cadillac says that it has focused on adding “innovative materials and a new approach to material application” to its line-up of models.
The accent fabric used inside the car is made from 100% recycled materials, while the Paperwood veneer is made from tulip wood and recycled newspaper.
Buyers will be able to choose between Luxury and Sport trims.
The Optiq starts at $54,000 (£42,340) in the US; Cadillac hasn’t yet disclosed the pricing for European markets.
Q&A – Jaclyn McQuaid, President and Managing Director GM Europe
Does Cadillac’s new line-up of electric models play on the firm’s values and heritage despite being European focused?
“I think it can be both. When you purchase a Cadillac you’re purchasing a car from an iconic brand that has a lot of history; we know how to design cars, we’ve been doing it for a long time and the DNA of Cadillac is very strong.
“We’re moving forward with our new all-electric portfolio that we’re continuing to build on, and we recognize that Europe is a different market than the United States.
“We’re incredibly proud of that, but we also need to make sure that what we’re offering in Europe matches with the desires in this market.”
