Cadillac Won't Go Full EV Just Yet

Michael Accardi
by Michael Accardi

Cadillac expects electric vehicles to account for 35% of its U.S. sales by the end of 2025 as the brand works to ramp up its EV strategy.


Key Points

  • Cadillac expects EVs to account for 35% of U.S. sales in 2025, a sharp rise from 18% in 2024, supported by a lineup of five electric models, including the Lyriq, Escalade IQ and IQL, Optiq, and Vistiq
  • The brand is no longer committing to an all-EV lineup by 2030, instead choosing to keep internal combustion models available as long as demand exists
  • General Motors is adjusting its EV strategy amid changing market conditions and potential policy shifts, balancing electrification growth with continued gas-powered vehicle sales

The automaker will have five EVs in its lineup by year’s end, including the Lyriq, Escalade IQ and IQL, Optiq, and the upcoming three-row Vistiq. The ultra-luxury Celestiq will also be part of the push, offering a high-end option with a $300,000+ price tag.


Despite the growing EV momentum, Cadillac is adjusting its initial plans to go fully electric by 2030. Gas-powered models will remain available as long as consumer demand exists, a shift from the brand’s earlier stance. This change isn't unique to Cadillac—almost every automaker that jumped head first toward the inEVitable electric vehicle future is walking back their initial promises—EV adoption is rising but at a far slower pace than automakers anticipated.

Cadillac’s U.S. sales grew by 8.8% in 2024, with Lyriq sales tripling since its late 2022 debut, demonstrating strong potential for its expanding EV portfolio. However, with the possibility of a new administration less supportive of federal EV incentives, General Motors appears to be hedging its bets—investing in electrification while maintaining traditional combustion-powered models for the foreseeable future.


Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Michael Accardi
Michael Accardi

An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.

More by Michael Accardi

Comments
Join the conversation
Next