The Cadillac Optiq is an Electric SUV that will Sit Below the Lyriq

• This new model has been unveiled in documents from the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

• The Optiq will be smaller and more affordable than the Lyriq, but bigger than the XT5.

• Cadillac has yet to confirm if this model will be offered in North America.

Like most automakers, General Motors wants to increase its presence in the Chinese market, which is why many of its new models are launched there first.

The next one of those models is likely to be the Cadillac Optiq, a new electric SUV whose design and specifications have been uncovered in documents from the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Technology.

According to the dimensions stated in the reports, the Optiq will be smaller than the current Lyriq, but bigger than the gasoline-powered XT5.

In terms of design, the new Cadillac model features many of the design cues that were introduced on the Lyriq, such as the vertical headlamps and taillamps as well as the striped front “grille” panel.

Under the skin, the initial version of the Optiq offered in China will be powered by a single-motor drivetrain that will offer two power outputs of 201 horsepower or 241 horsepower.

We don’t know much about the expected range for this vehicle yet, except that the lithium-ion battery pack that will power it will be sourced from SAIC-CATL, a joint venture between one of GM’s Chinese partners and the world’s leading EV battery maker.

Speaking of SAIC, the Chinese automaker will be responsible for the assembly of the Cadillac SUV at its Wuhan assembly plant.

The luxury branch of General Motors is expected to unveil two other new electric vehicles by the end of the year, at which point the Optiq will already be on sale in China.

While Cadillac hasn’t said anything to this effect, it is possible that the Optiq will be offered in North America at a later date since prototypes have been spotted driving around the United States.

Source: Carscoops