Key Takeaways
- Cadillac’s Solei concept is a convertible EV based on the Celestique sedan.
- Features like the 55-inch display and mushroom-based materials could influence future automobiles.
- This is presumably intended to attract ultra-wealthy shoppers who can afford a custom, hand-built Cadillac.
Cadillac unveiled an unusual convertible electric vehicle concept this week, dubbed the Solei. Based on the company’s $340,000 Celestiq sedan, the car isn’t built for the masses; Cadillac says it “pushes the boundaries of future bespoke offerings.” In fact, the concept was unveiled at Cadillac House at Vanderbilt in Warren, Michigan, where Celestiq buyers will choose their materials. But it also has some features that could be seen again in affordable cars, such as the use of a biodegradable mushroom-based material for some surfaces.
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There’s also a 55-inch dashboard display that spans the width of the car. Such screens are still reserved for luxury cars for now, but we’ll see them become more common among the general public in the next few years. Apple is already developing the next generation of CarPlay for luxury cars, including customizable digital gauges. However, Cadillac hasn’t revealed what platform the Sollei will support, or even the specs of the motor and battery it will use; presumably they’ll be similar to the Celestiq. The Sollei announcement is focused on style.
For similar reasons, the car also has a sunburst pattern on the back of each seat, the “Manila Cream” color first used on Cadillac in 1957-1958, and a small beverage refrigerator in the back. It has multiple lighting zones, a bird calling set, a leather diary, and even a leather roll for pens and pencils. For reasons unknown, the theme of this car is bird watching.
Why did Cadillac build the Solei?
Solei is likely intended to sell the idea of a customized Cadillac and attract more affluent shoppers. The company was once known for catering to that market, but in recent decades has produced a number of more conventional (and affordable) models, such as the CT4 and XT4. In fact, the company is just starting to dip its toes into the EV market, and while its current electric product is the Lyriq, it is also developing two other SUVs, the Optique and Escalade IQ, which are due to go on sale by the end of 2024. Another model, the Vistique, is due to go on sale by 2026.
Many concept cars serve as test beds for new technology or design ideas, and the Sollei isn’t anything particularly radical. But don’t be surprised if you see a similar car in a dealership in a few years’ time.
