Cadillac to add Optiq EV compact crossover to lineup

Cadillac said Friday it will reveal the Optiq, a new entry-level electric nameplate, next year.

The brand confirmed the Optiq compact crossover will slot below the midsize Lyriq, its first electric vehicle, and serve as the gateway to Cadillac's upcoming all-electric portfolio in North America. General Motors' luxury brand released images of the Optiq on Friday and said it would share more details, including features and pricing, when it is formally revealed in 2024.

The Optiq appears similar in size to the XT4, Cadillac's smallest and least-expensive crossover. In addition to North America, Cadillac appears ready to sell the Optiq in key markets such as China — the government there released images and dimensions of the model this summer — and most likely Europe.

"Optiq's spirited driving dynamics are designed to appeal to global luxury customers," Cadillac said in a statement.

The brand plans to have an all-EV lineup by 2030.

Cadillac sold 5,334 Lyriqs in the U.S. through September as it continues to ramp up production, compared with just 36 through the third quarter of 2022. Its second EV, the ultraluxury Celestiq sedan, is expected to begin production in December.

In August, Cadillac revealed the electric Escalade IQ full-size SUV expected to begin production in summer 2024 and be built at GM's Factory Zero plant in Detroit. The Escalade IQL, the electric counterpart to the longer-wheelbase Escalade ESV, is expected in 2025, though the brand has not confirmed it.

Rory Harvey, Cadillac's former global vice president before being promoted to GM's president of North America, in February said Cadillac was preparing to debut three EVs this year that should enter production in 2024. The Escalade IQ and Optiq have been announced so far.