Cadillac Showcases Design And Innovation At Geneva Motor Show

GENEVA – Cadillac accelerates into 2008 with moves that advance the brand’s dramatic design and innovative performance technology. At the Geneva Motor Show, Cadillac will present the CTS-V and Escalade Hybrid as well as the Provoq Concept and CTS Coupe Concept. “These four vehicles powerfully showcase three critical elements of Cadillac vehicles -- dramatic design, great performance and advanced technology,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager.

Cadillac CTS-V

The all-new CTS-V combines the serious performance of an elite sports car with the poise and elegance of a prestigious luxury sedan. Part of Cadillac’s acclaimed V-Series of high-performance models, CTS-V delivers an estimated 550 horsepower* (410 kW) via a new 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine. More than just power, CTS-V also includes a comprehensive list of technical and design enhancements, including Magnetic Ride Control, an automatic transmission with paddle-shift control and an industry-first Performance Traction Management program borrowed from championship racing teams. This technology uses advanced electronics to manage engine torque for optimal traction during acceleration. In situations such as acceleration from a stop or exiting corners, Performance Traction Management regulates torque delivery for the best possible launch.

The CTS-V embodies Cadillac’s signature design, both inside and out. The V-Series includes all the elements of the CTS sport sedan’s cabin, while offering performance features such as Recaro performance driving seats. Supporting Cadillac’s ongoing global expansion, the CTS- V is planned to be offered outside North America in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

The Escalade Hybrid is the world’s first fuel-saving 2-Mode hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV. By delivering more than a 50-percent improvement in fuel economy in city driving, the Escalade Hybrid enables consumers to use less fossil fuel and reduce vehicle emissions while still reaping the benefits of a full-size luxury SUV. It will be available in the U.S. this summer, and the potential for sales in Europe are being evaluated with a decision expected within the next few months.

Escalade’s 2-Mode hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand in an efficient package. Escalade Hybrid is available in 2WD and 4WD configurations and delivers up to 2,721 kg (6,000 pounds) of usable towing capacity on 2WD models and 2,585 kg (5,700 pounds) on 4WD models.

Cadillac Provoq Fuel Cell Concept

This concept provides a look into Cadillac’s vision for the future of luxury transportation in the form of a hydrogen fuel cell crossover vehicle. Provoq continues GM’s commitment to displace petroleum use in vehicles through advanced technology. Using GM’s groundbreaking E-Flex propulsion system, Provoq combines the new fifth-generation fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery to produce an electrically driven vehicle that uses no petroleum and has no emission other than water. The fifth-generation fuel cell is half the size of its predecessor, yet it has been developed to produce more power and can drive 483 km (300 miles) on a single fill of hydrogen – with 450 km (280 miles) from hydrogen and 32 km (20 miles) on pure, battery electric energy.

If produced, the Provoq could be driven without using a single drop of petroleum while emitting only water vapor exhaust. A solar panel integrated in the roof helps power onboard accessories such as the interior lights, audio system and more. Fender-mounted charge ports allow overnight, plug-in charging to extend the vehicle’s driving range.

Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept

The CTS Coupe extends the dramatic design of the award-winning CTS sedan with all-new sculpted bodywork aft of the front fenders. The CTS Coupe casts a profile unlike anything else on the road with fast-rake styling – it has the same wheelbase as the CTS, but an overall height that is approximately 50 mm lower and an overall length that is 50 mm shorter. Among the CTS Coupe Concept’s signature design cues are several elements that suggest the look of a carefully cut diamond, particularly at the rear. These elements are seen in everything from the chrome header above the rear license plate holder to the indents that comprise the basic form of the rear fascia.

On the inside, a classic 2+2 environment enhances the CTS Coupe’s personal feel. It shares the hand-cut-and-sewn instrument panel and center console with the CTS, but features unique front and rear seats, a continuous console running between the front and rear seats, and custom door panels.

The Coupe Concept was designed to accommodate a range of engines for the global luxury market, including Cadillac’s popular 3.6L direct injection V-6, and a new 2.9L turbo-diesel currently in development.