A few weeks ago, Cadillac unveiled the Sollei concept, a stunning convertible that could very well be a production car. Now, Cadillac has taken things a step further with the Opulent Velocity, a new concept that envisions what the V-Series could look like when it combines autonomy, luxury, and performance in an all-electric vehicle.
Cadillac paid close attention to the powertrain details of the Opulent Velocity, calling the concept an “experiential design study.” The design direction focuses on creating two distinct user experiences, controlled by a physical switch in the intricately molded center console. Luxury mode uses the car’s Level 4 autonomy to provide a more hands-free driving experience for the driver. There’s also a drive mode that puts the driver in full control of the steering wheel and pedals.
Customers can also opt for a higher level of autonomous driving that will allow Cadillac to create unique user experiences inside the vehicle’s interior. The additional computing power could support software that can teach drivers the best way to navigate a racetrack on demand, using the concept’s full windshield and video game-like augmented reality displays.
“Ultimately, it’s about how fast can I get a car around a track, what’s the best time and the best way to do it, and if I can enable that better through technology, what’s the potential of the car,” said Bryan Nesbit, managing director of Global Cadillac Design. “And that’s really what this research is about.”
The Opulent Velocity also served as a testbed for new battery packaging, cooling technology, and finishes. The car also featured large butterfly doors, which made it easier for the driver and passengers to get in and out thanks to the Concept’s low-slung design. Cadillac tested the brand’s signature vertical lighting system, and the brand also designed taillights that simultaneously illuminate the grille, the car’s logo, the center caps, and the spokes.
Inside, Cadillac designed an interior that wraps around the occupants. According to the brand, the car should have a light and floating driving feel. The car is also equipped with a full-screen display on the windshield and an enhanced HUD that will help display information to the driver, and the steering wheel also has a screen that helps the driver easily monitor information.
Cadillac’s V-Series brand celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, attracting new, younger, more progressive buyers to the brand. The automaker wants to build on that success, and the Opulent Velocity is a preview of what those buyers and fans might one day own and drive. The concept will make its public debut Friday at The Quail during Monterey Car Week.
