Published

Caddy’s “iq” Factor

EV lineup spells the end of alphanumeric names
#hybrid

Share

Cadillac’s upcoming Lyriq crossover will be the first in a new wave of electric vehicles for the brand.

It also will usher in a new naming convention—replacing the current alphanumeric system (CT-based sedans and XT crossovers) with models ending in “iq.” The Escalade SUV is the only model that doesn’t follow the CT/XT # structure.

What’s in a Name?

The new nomenclature “signals that Cadillac is bringing a different type of vehicle to market, one that works in concert with man, nature, and machine,” Phil Dauchy, Cadillac’s head of global brand strategy, tells GM Authority.

This primarily means switching from internal combustion engines to electrified powertrains. Cadillac expects EVs will account for the bulk of its lineup by 2030.

Sounds Good

Dauchy notes the iq suffix also provides alteration with Cadillac, with both names ending in an “ick” sound.

Lyriq was chosen in part for its lyrical nature. Not so much in how it sounds itself but in the fact that the Cadillac name is used so frequently in songs. In fact, Dauchy claims the luxury marque is the most cited brand (automotive or otherwise) in music history.

Coming Soon

After several delays, Cadillac is due to take the wraps off the Lyriq on Aug. 6. The EV will be about the same size as current XT5 crossover.

The Lyriq will be followed by the Celestiq fullsize sedan. Dauchy vows the future flagship model’s presence and scale will live up to its celestial sounding name.

All of the future EVs will ride on GM’s new BEV3 architecture, which is designed to support a wide array of body styles with front-, rear- and all-wheel-drive electric powertrains.

RELATED CONTENT

  • On Automotive: An All Electric Edition

    A look at electric vehicle-related developments, from new products to recycling old batteries.

  • Cobots: 14 Things You Need to Know

    What jobs do cobots do well? How is a cobot programmed? What’s the ROI? We asked these questions and more to four of the leading suppliers of cobots. 

  • Mustang Changes for 2018

    On Tuesday Ford unveiled—using the social media channels of actor Dwayne Johnson (this has got to unnerve some of the auto buff book editors)—the 2018 Mustang, which has undergone some modifications: under the hood (the 3.7-liter V6 is giving way to a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four, and a 10-speed automatic is available), on the dash (a 12-inch, all-digital LCD screen is available for the dashboard), at the tires (12 wheel choices), on the chassis (MagneRide damper technology is being offered with the Mustang Performance Package), and on the exterior (three new paint colors). And while on the subject of the exterior, there are some notable changes—a lower, remodeled hood, repositioned hood vents, new upper and lower front grilles, LED front lights, revised LED taillamps, new rear bumper and fascia.

Gardner Business Media - Strategic Business Solutions