Cadillac, the esteemed General Motors brand, has taken a bold step forward in the electric vehicle (EV) market by unveiling the Optiq, its new entry-level EV crossover. This compact-sized addition is set to enhance Cadillac’s electric lineup, coming in as the fourth EV offering, trailing the midsize Lyriq crossover, which has paved the way with a starting price of around $59,000. The Optiq is poised to debut in the competitive EV space, setting the stage for Cadillac’s transition to an all-electric portfolio by 2030.
The Optiq marks a significant milestone for Cadillac, which aims to reposition itself at the forefront of the electric revolution. Despite the challenges of slower-than-anticipated demand and the hurdles of supply chain disruptions, Cadillac remains steadfast in its commitment to an electric future. A Cadillac spokesman echoed this dedication on Friday, reaffirming the brand’s ambition to transition exclusively to EVs within the next seven years, aligning with GM’s goal for 2035.
Cadillac’s electric journey began with the Lyriq, followed by the luxurious and bespoke Celestiq sedan, pegged at over $300,000, and an impending electric iteration of the Escalade SUV, with a starting price of about $130,000. While Lyriq’s sales figures have been modest, with fewer than 5,400 units sold through September, the brand is setting its sights on global expansion. This expansion includes introducing a right-hand-drive version of the Lyriq to tap into markets with strong EV adoption rates, such as Australia and New Zealand.
John Roth, Cadillac’s vice president, optimistically stated, “Cadillac is experiencing great sales momentum thanks to our strong product portfolio — and we are now expanding our business globally. Introducing a right-hand-drive Lyriq will enable new opportunities in important markets where EV adoption is strong.”
The announcement of the 2025 Optiq is a clear signal of Cadillac’s dedication to innovation and global reach in the EV sector. While details remain sparse, the anticipation for this compact crossover is high, with potential buyers and industry onlookers eager to see how Cadillac will price and position the Optiq in an increasingly crowded market. With a strategic focus on electrification and global expansion, Cadillac is not just revving up its engines but charging its batteries for a future where luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.