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American automaker General Motors is determined to be one of the biggest names in the electric vehicle space. The company is making a huge effort across its portfolio of brands by electrifying some of its most notable nameplates and creating entirely new models. The Cadillac Escalade is a staple in the large luxury SUV segment. GM’s luxury brand Cadillac is giving the full-size SUV an electric powertrain, creating the Escalade IQ. Here’s what we know about the innovative new model thus far.

What is the Cadillac Escalade IQ?

A Cadillac Escalade IQ teaser image | Cadillac

The Cadillac Escalade IQ is a new electric version of the Cadillac Escalade full-size SUV. It will be built on the General Motors Ultium platform, similar to other upcoming GM electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox EV.

Cadillac has yet to release any major details on the new large electric SUV, but chances are, the Escadlade IQ will share many traits with other new large GM EVs. The Hummer EV is a large electric pickup truck with an incredible power output. It uses a tri-motor powertrain system to produce a whopping 1,000 horsepower. The Hummer EV Edition 1 can travel for 329 miles on a full charge. The EV 3X can travel for 355 miles.

The Cadillac Escalade IQ should have a high power output, a refined cabin, and plenty of cool features that push the envelope. The Chevrolet Silverado EV’s many available features (like exportable power) prove that GM is pulling out all the stops to make its new electric vehicle nameplates exciting.

We also know that the Escalade IQ will be pricey (compared to the average full-size SUV). The Hummer EV starts at $84,650. Its final configuration starts at $104,650. The 2023 Cadillac Escalade starts at $79,295. The V Series configuration starts at $149,195. The Escalade IQ is likely to start near $100,000 because of its complex powertrain system.

What do drivers want from a Cadillac IQ?

A black 2023 Cadillac Escalade full-size SUV is parked.
The 2023 Cadillac Escalade | Cadillac

The Escalade is designed for livin’ life large. It isn’t the average large family SUV. The Cadillac Escalade is built for more affluent consumers that desire a luxury ownership experience. It competes with popular models like the Lincoln Navigator, Land Rover Range Rover, and BMW X7.

Drivers want the Cadillac Escalade IQ to capture the spirit of previous Escalade interactions while bringing something new to the table. Ideally, the Escalade IQ will provide plenty of instant torque, a spacious frunk, and exportable power.

The Cadillac Escalade IQ is a big win for GM EVs

General Motors may not account for as much of the total electric vehicle market share as Tesla, but the American automaker is quickly gaining on many of its other rivals in the EV space. The company is producing several impactful nameplates across its portfolio of brands.

The Cadillac Escalade IQ, like the GMC Hummer EV, probably won’t break any sales records, but it has an important role to play in the company’s electric future. Cadillac claims that the Escalade IQ will debut later in 2023. Does the luxury brand have a hit on its hands, or is the new electric Escalade all buzz and no spark?

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