As we’ve covered extensively in the past, Cadillac is ramping up its electrification efforts with a number of new models and fresh powertrain options, including a new all-electric variant of the iconic Cadillac Escalade. But what about Caddy’s existing sedan models, specifically the Cadillac CT5 and Cadillac CT4? Well, as it turns out, the two remaining CT’s won’t be part of the automaker’s upcoming push into the EV segment.
According to our sources, the Cadillac CT5 and Cadillac CT4 will remain internal-combustion-only affairs – that is, no all-electric drivetrain, and no hybrid or plug-in hybrid variants, either.
Instead, Cadillac’s forthcoming all-electric offensive will launch with the Lyriq crossover, which will be roughly the same size as the Cadillac XT5. Cadillac will also release another, smaller EV crossover that will slot in below the Lyriq in terms of the model cadence. These two EV crossovers will be the first all-electric Cadillac models out the gate, with several others to follow after.
As of this writing, it’s uncertain what Cadillac’s strategy will be with regard to electrification for D- and C-segment sedans like the Cadillac CT5 and Cadillac CT4, respectively. However, we do know that the the very top of the Cadillac sedan lineup will belong to the forthcoming Cadillac Celestiq. As we’ve covered previously, the Cadillac Celestiq will be huge, with styling inspired by the Cadillac Escala concept and a sleek profile. Outside of the battery packs, electric motors, and underlying structure, it’ll also be mostly hand-built, and carry a price tag of at least $200,000.
Descriptions of the Cadillac Celestiq are impressive, no doubt about it. On the flip side, Cadillac buyers who want to stick with internal combustion will be able to do so with the Cadillac CT5 and CT4, at least for the foreseeable future.
We’ll keep our ear to the ground to see how this story develops. In the meantime, subscribe to Cadillac Society for more Cadillac CT5 news, Cadillac CT4 news, and around-the-clock Cadillac news coverage.
Greg
I wonder if this is because the CT’s aren’t expected to live very long? Are the upcoming “VSS” products capable of both ICE and electric powertrains?
Eric Nast
Well, Camaro’s gone after 2023, with no replacement announced, and certainly not on Alpha. Unless stellar sales numbers warrant it, I can see the CTs EOL’d around the same time and production capacity transitioned to VSS-R. I would reasonably expect that the newest platforms would have both the future electrical architectures and allowance for some degree of electrification built in.
Reagan
Leave well enough alone
Greg
Come to think about it, the Alpha platform is fairly old now, development having begun at least 10 years ago. I’m sure electric propulsion was not considered.
Marshall Sumner
When are we going to see a CT5 with a six cylinder engine?
Eric Nast
Seek, and ye shall find CT5-V…or Premium Luxury with a detuned version of the same 3.0TT. 😉
Greg
@Eric Nast:
Marshall has been posting that every couple of days for weeks now.
Alex Luft
Already available in CT5-V form.
Joe Booky
European automakers are scaling back the EV programs for US, or so I read. Is GM in too far to back out? There was some discussion in the forum about the CT5 chassis and engine bay in regards to electrification.
Celestiq, I’ll believe it when I see it. Maybe in concept form. GM must be burning through dollars like crazy making masks and ventilators instead of cars. Also, cheap gas and Trump lowering mileage standards. I’m really no expert though.