The world of all-electric SUVs continues to expand as more automakers announce plans. Now, the iconic Cadillac Escalade will have an EV version for the 2025 model year. Of course, Cadillac has not revealed much about the upcoming Cadillac Escalade IQ, but people are already drawing comparisons. Many wonder how the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ will compete with the latest Rivian R1S. Here are a few guesses. 

What we know so far about the all-electric Cadillac Escalade

Not much is known about the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. However, the automaker has revealed that the upcoming all-electric SUV will use GM’s Ultium battery packs. Because of the choice in battery technology, the Cadillac Escalade EV joins the ranks of several other upcoming electric SUVs. The Honda Prologue SUV and the Chevy Blazer EV are other SUVs that will use the GM battery.

The Cadillac Escalade EV is the third model in the Cadillac IQ all-electric lineup. It’s the second SUV, following the Cadillac Lyriq. There have been rumors of an all-electric Escalade since 2021 when GM trademarked Escalade IQL. As practically everyone knows, the Escalade is Cadillac’s most iconic vehicle, so this upcoming EV version is a huge deal.

A Look at the Rivian R1S

The Rivian R1S is one of the most talked about all-electric SUVs. This is despite its relatively long delivery time. According to Car and Driver, it has dual and quad-motor options, with the latter having a maximum output of 835 horsepower. The dual-motor Rivian R1S is also a powerhouse, as it makes a combined 600 hp. 

Regarding speed, the Rivian R1S quad-motor edition can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in an astounding 3.1 seconds. This is pretty awesome for a full-size SUV that seats up to eight, as the Cadillac Escalade does. The R1S is also notable because it offers adjustable air suspension, allowing for ground clearance between eight and 15 inches.  

How the Escalade IQ will compete

The Rivian R1S all-electric SUV is considered royalty for more reasons than one. However, the Cadillac Escalade has a strong reputation for being the most powerful full-size luxury SUV. This is particularly the case regarding the Escalade V. This means that the all-electric version will have much to compete against. There’s no way Cadillac would let the EV version of its most sought-after vehicle get beaten by a relative newcomer.

Cadillac didn’t reveal any concrete information about the Escalade EV. However, it’s probably safe to say the automaker plans to beat the R1S. This also means the upcoming all-electric SUV will perhaps also offer improved suspension over even the V trim of the Escalade in order to compete with the R1S. It’ll be interesting to see what Cadillac announces ahead of the newest addition to its EQ lineup in the coming months.