Efficiency Upgrades: Optiq vs. Optiq-V
Whereas the usual Cadillac Optiq already provides spectacular efficiency, the brand new Optiq-V pushes the envelope additional. Outfitted with twin electrical motors that generate 515 horsepower, the Optiq-V accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds—placing it forward of many gas-powered efficiency SUVs. Compared, the usual Optiq delivers a decent 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque with its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup.
Powertrain and Drive Modes
The Optiq-V isn’t simply extra highly effective—it’s smarter on the observe. With 650 lb-ft of torque and entry to distinctive drive settings like Velocity Max mode, the efficiency variant is simply two-tenths of a second behind the Lyriq-V’s 0–60 mph time. Extra efficiency options embrace a customizable V-Mode (much like Hyundai’s N Mode or BMW’s M modes), a track-focused Aggressive Mode, Launch Management, and Brembo brakes with a selection of pink or blue calipers.
Vary and Battery Capability
That further energy comes at a price to driving vary. The Optiq-V is predicted to supply as much as 275 miles of GM-estimated vary from its 85-kWh battery. In the meantime, the usual Optiq achieves an EPA-estimated 302 miles. Regardless of the marginally shorter vary, the Optiq-V provides an distinctive mix of efficiency and practicality.
Charging Compatibility and the NACS Transition
The Optiq-V can also be a milestone for Common Motors, being the primary GM electrical car to come back geared up with the Tesla-designed North American Charging Normal (NACS) port from the manufacturing unit. This enhances compatibility with Tesla’s Supercharger community, however it’s not with out quirks. For the reason that Optiq-V’s charging port is positioned on the front-left fender—not like Tesla’s rear-left or front-right configurations—charging at V3 Superchargers with shorter cables might require awkward positioning till longer V4 cables develop into extra widespread.
Design Enhancements and Restricted Editions
Cadillac has made a collection of visible upgrades to set the Optiq-V aside. These embrace blacked-out 21-inch wheels, a revised entrance bumper, and a decrease lip that give the SUV a extra aggressive stance. Consumers may also go for a carbon fiber look bundle that enhances the entrance splitter, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler. Two unique colours will likely be out there at launch: Magnus Metallic Frost (a modern grey) and Deep Ocean Tintcoat (a wealthy metallic blue).
Pricing and Market Place
Beginning at $68,795 (together with vacation spot), the Optiq-V is priced $14,405 increased than the usual Optiq AWD. Nonetheless, it nonetheless undercuts the Lyriq-V, which begins at $80,090, by roughly $11,000—making it a compelling choice in GM’s electrical efficiency lineup.
Difficult the Skeptics
Regardless of current headlines suggesting Common Motors is pulling again from electrical automobiles in favor of conventional V8 engines, the launch of the Optiq-V says in any other case. It’s one of many quickest automobiles GM has ever produced, no matter powertrain sort. As identified by InsideEVs Deputy Editor Mack Hogan, whereas the change to NACS helps with entry, it does not totally get rid of the educational curve concerned in EV charging.
Conclusion: Efficiency Isn’t Going Anyplace
Between the Cadillac Lyriq-V, the Chevrolet Blazer EV SS, and now the Optiq-V, GM is making it abundantly clear: the period of efficiency is much from over—electrical or in any other case. With the Optiq-V, Cadillac provides an exciting drive expertise that competes with, and in lots of circumstances surpasses, its gasoline-powered counterparts.
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