Cadillac Opulent Velocity: Caddy's future coupé?

Cadillac steps up once again: The long, flat coupé "Opulent Velocity" features gull-wing doors – and the typical vertical Cadillac front LEDs as well as a dazzling ambient lighting inside, huge display areas, and – optionally – a steering wheel.

Regarding the propulsion of the Opulent Velocity, Cadillac hasn't revealed any details yet, but the hypercar is meant to provide a glimpse into an electric model of the sporty V-series. Cadillac introduced the V-series as a performance label about 20 years ago.

Cadillac envisions Level 4 automated driving for its concept: When the digital chauffeur is active, the rectangular steering wheel remains hidden. In Velocity mode, the driver can take over the retractable steering wheel and activate the otherwise hidden pedals. This has been seen before, which is why Bryan Nesbitt, Executive Director, Global Cadillac Design, refers to it as an "experiential design study." He also speaks of the global technical leadership ambitions that they wish to reclaim:

"It is the futuristic vision of luxury performance, encompassing Cadillac’s leadership in autonomous capabilities, electrification, and performance excellence. Opulent Velocity expresses the artful integration of technology, luxury, and driving pleasure characteristic of Cadillac Halo variants of the V-series as well as future electrification designs."

Through the touch of the multifunctional controller, Opulent Velocity transforms from autonomous mode into a Velocity experience. Once Velocity is activated, the steering wheel and pedals present themselves, and the user is prompted to take the wheel. The front seats of the concept vehicle then connect directly to the cantilevered Y-shaped console and are linked with the door to secure the driver for high-speed maneuvers.

The Velocity mode also offers a "Ghost Car" function displayed on the HUD screen, serving as the vehicle user manual. This mode also provides a competitive driving track, allowing drivers to improve their lap times or compete against peers on various designated tracks. Additionally, the mode can explain driving improvements and provide active information about the ride.

Much new manufacturing technology inside

According to Cadillac, precision is achieved using 3D printing technology, along with linear two-tone embroidery with prismatic adornments to reflect the vehicle's light choreography. The cool-tinted flax fibers, sitting under a veil of tinted silver pearlescent flakes, aim to "capture the essence of lightweight performance material." In short, a lot of new things are being tried here as well.

Cadillac also aims to blend the precision of digital manufacturing with traditional craftsmanship. It combines elegant with vibrant modern hues to create – as the American opulent press statement puts it – a "convergence of past, present, and future."