Electric power only for Cadillac in Australia, Lyriq large SUV due here end of 2024

GENERAL MOTORS Makes a Bold Entry into the Australian Market with Cadillac Lyriq: An Electric SUV on the Horizon
GENERAL MOTORS, renowned for its significant presence globally, is all set for a fresh stint in the Australian market. The company is preparing for its debut in Australia with the much-anticipated Cadillac Lyriq, a fully imported and fully electric large SUV, marking the first-time factory right-hand drive vehicles will be introduced in the country.

Cadillac, a prestigious US luxury brand that had previously not established a factory presence in Australia, is venturing into the “premium” market segment with its right-hand drive Lyriq scheduled for arrival by the end of 2024, albeit without confirmed specifications.

GM’s withdrawal from Australia in 2017 seemed to stem from the challenge of manufacturing right-hand drive cars locally. However, this obstacle has seemingly been surmounted by the decision to produce these vehicles in the United States.
The company’s initial foray back into the Australian market will primarily be through two Experience Centres (stores), strategically positioned in Melbourne and Sydney (along with Auckland), supplemented by the “Direct to Customer Experience” online portal.

When pressed about potential pricing, GM and Cadillac executives at a brand media launch in Melbourne refrained from divulging specifics. Nevertheless, considering the Lyriq’s US pricing range of $US50,000-$US62,000 and in comparison with competitors like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi, the anticipated price of the Lyriq in Australia may hover around $A150,000.

Vice President of Global Cadillac, John Roth, hinted at a competitive edge by positioning the Lyriq against competitors like the Mercedes-Benz EQE, BMW iX, and Audi Q8 e-tron.

GM’s vision for the future entails a range of vehicles built on GM’s dedicated Ultium BEV architecture, encompassing various 2WD and AWD configurations. The showcased Lyriq 600e 4 AWD variant unveiled at the Melbourne event showcased its immense torque capabilities.

2024 Cadillac Lyriq EV SUV.

The company’s ambitious plan includes a lineup of diverse BEV models, including sedans, coupes, SUVs, and pick-ups, contingent upon production as part of a broader global EV expansion program focusing on right-hand drive models from the US.

Jess Bala, Managing Director of GM Australia and New Zealand, emphasised Cadillac’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled sales and ownership experience for its customers, targeting tech-savvy early adopters in the premium market segment.

Assured of the Australian market’s readiness and the revival of GM’s brand reputation post its local withdrawal, Bala expressed confidence in Cadillac’s re-entry, citing the brand’s rich history and its prominence in pop culture as key recognition factors.

The launch of the Lyriq in Australia and New Zealand signifies a personal milestone for Bala, who has been actively involved with the Lyriq’s development and is ecstatic about bringing it back home.

The Cadillac Lyriq, the automaker’s pioneering BEV built on the Ultium platform, represents Cadillac’s future, blending technology, craftsmanship, and performance seamlessly. Engineered from the ground up for global markets, the vehicle promises luxury and style while spearheading Cadillac’s EV journey into new territories.

GM’s substantial investment in the Ultium battery platform paves the way for efficient development of right-hand-drive variants, extending the brand’s reach into new markets globally.

Amidst their focus on introducing Cadillac into the Australian market, the GM representatives highlighted the extensive presence of GM’s various business units in Australia and New Zealand, laying a strong foundation for future developments in the GM business realm Down Under.

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