The electric vehicle (EV) market is largely focused on affordability, but Cadillac is taking a different approach with the Celestiq. This hand-built EV is designed to be an exclusive, ultra-luxury statement piece, and it comes with a price tag to match. Forget affordability – this car is for those seeking unparalleled customization and a truly unique driving experience.
Cadillac CELESTIQ interior view of a woman driving and the passenger seat.A woman enjoys the luxurious interior of the Cadillac Celestiq. Cadillac
Design and Customization: A Bespoke Masterpiece
The Cadillac Celestiq is a luxury hatchback sedan with a striking design. While it incorporates some familiar Cadillac design cues, its long, sweeping roofline and distinctive rear lighting set it apart from other Cadillacs and EVs in general.
The interior is equally impressive, featuring ambient lighting, a massive electrochromic glass sunroof that adjusts opacity, and plush leather seating. But the true differentiator is the level of customization. Cadillac allows customers to work directly with designers to create a truly bespoke vehicle, with virtually limitless options for colors, materials, and finishes.
Price: Exclusivity Comes at a Cost
The Celestiq is positioned as an ultra-luxury vehicle, and its price reflects that. Cadillac has indicated a starting price above $300,000, making it one of the most expensive EVs on the market. Given the extensive customization options, the final price for each Celestiq is likely to vary.
Cadillac Celestiq ControlsThe Cadillac Celestiq features advanced controls and a large touchscreen display. Cadillac
Release Date and Availability: Joining the Elite
The Cadillac Celestiq is slated for release as a 2024 model, with production beginning in December 2023. Deliveries are expected to commence around January 2024. Those eager to join the exclusive ranks of Celestiq owners can sign up for the waitlist on Cadillac’s website.
Colors and Models: A Blank Canvas
Customization is at the heart of the Celestiq experience. Unlike most vehicles with pre-defined color options, the Celestiq offers a blank canvas. Customers collaborate with Cadillac designers to select the precise colors, finishes, and materials for their vehicle. While press images showcase a stunning deep blue, the possibilities are virtually endless.
Rear 3/4 view of Cadillac CELESTIQ on a plateau overlooking mountains in the background.The Cadillac Celestiq stands out with its unique design and luxurious features. Cadillac
Charging and Range: Room for Improvement
The Celestiq utilizes GM’s Ultium platform, shared with vehicles like the Hummer EV and Cadillac Lyriq. It offers an estimated range of around 300 miles on a single charge. While respectable, this figure falls short of some competitors in the luxury EV segment, such as the Lucid Air Grand Touring, which boasts a range exceeding 500 miles.
The Celestiq supports DC fast charging at up to 200kW, allowing for approximately 78 miles of range to be added in just 10 minutes.
Performance: Effortless Power
The Celestiq features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain delivering 600 horsepower. This configuration propels the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.8 seconds, offering exhilarating performance. Real-world driving dynamics and handling remain to be seen.
Cadillac Celestiq WheelA close-up view of the Cadillac Celestiq’s wheel while charging. Cadillac
Technology and Features: A Digital Sanctuary
The Cadillac Celestiq is packed with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance comfort and convenience. It features quad-zone climate control, an electrochromic sunroof, and a massive 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, serving as both the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Rear passengers enjoy individual 12.6-inch infotainment screens. A 38-speaker AKG Studio Reference sound system provides an immersive audio experience.
Cadillac Celestiq FrontThe Cadillac Celestiq’s front interior showcases the impressive 55-inch display. Cadillac
The Celestiq will also feature GM’s Ultra Cruise hands-free driving technology, along with standard driver-assistance features like automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning. The absence of CarPlay and Android Auto, however, might be a disappointment for some.
Tax Credit: Not Applicable
Due to its high price, the Cadillac Celestiq does not qualify for the federal EV tax credit.
Conclusion: Redefining Automotive Luxury
The Cadillac Celestiq represents a bold departure from the mainstream EV market. It prioritizes exclusivity, craftsmanship, and bespoke customization over affordability. While some aspects, such as range and the lack of CarPlay/Android Auto, could be improved, the Celestiq promises a unique and unparalleled driving experience for those who can afford it. For those seeking the ultimate in automotive luxury, the Celestiq may be the perfect EV.
