In an exclusive interview with ArabGT’s Mousub Shsha, John Roth, Vice President of Cadillac, detailed the brand’s strategic direction, latest advancements, and unwavering commitment to innovation. The discussion, held in Dubai, underscored Cadillac’s mission to seamlessly integrate performance, luxury, and forward-thinking technology as it charts a bold path toward an electric future.
A Star Returns: The Escalade’s Electrified Evolution
The iconic Cadillac Escalade remains the centerpiece of the brand’s lineup. Roth emphasized its significance as Cadillac’s “franchise player” and detailed the latest enhancements, which go beyond a simple facelift. The refreshed Escalade offers premium materials, advanced design, and a standout 55-inch pillar-to-pillar screen for an enhanced driving experience. With the immediate launch of the V-series and Platinum trims, Cadillac reinforces its dedication to high-performance luxury.
Notably, the brand’s electrification journey now includes the all-electric Escalade IQ, delivering an impressive range of up to 800 km and improved aerodynamics. This dual approach — offering both traditional combustion and electric options — ensures Cadillac meets the diverse needs of its global customer base.
A Fully Electrified Future on the Horizon
Cadillac’s electrification strategy extends beyond the Escalade. Cadillac VP highlighted the upcoming lineup, including models like the Lyriq, Celestiq, Optiq, and the anticipated Vistiq. These vehicles mark Cadillac’s transition toward a fully electric portfolio while preserving ICE options for key models. Cadillac VP noted that Cadillac’s commitment to innovation has been in motion since 2015, positioning the brand at the forefront of automotive technology.
Performance Rooted in Motorsport Excellence
Cadillac’s heritage of performance shines through its active participation in motorsport. The brand competes in prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship (WEC). This commitment not only honors Cadillac’s racing legacy but also drives technology advancements that benefit production vehicles. The future of high-performance trims like Blackwing for the CT4 and CT5 remains strong, with hints of upcoming performance EVs to expand Cadillac’s offerings.
Luxury and Bespoke Customization
At the pinnacle of Cadillac’s luxury experience sits the Celestiq. This hand-built sedan embodies Cadillac’s vision for bespoke craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, featuring 135 patents. The Celestiq offers unparalleled personalization, allowing customers to tailor every detail, from interior finishes to intricate design elements. It reflects Cadillac’s commitment to delivering a sophisticated, personalized driving experience.
Charting a Bold Path Forward
As Cadillac looks ahead to 2025, Cadillac VP expressed confidence in the brand’s competitive advantage in the premium segment. By blending innovation, electrification, and exceptional customer experience, Cadillac is well-positioned to thrive in an ever-evolving market. From groundbreaking EVs to motorsport-driven performance models, Cadillac continues to honor its storied past while embracing an electrified, optimistic future.
Watch the full interview with Cadillac’s VP
