Cadillac News - Cheers and Gears http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/ Thu, 23 May 2013 22:21:18 +0000 86400 2014 Cadillac XTS Coming With An Optional Twin Turbo V6 http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/2014-cadillac-xts-coming-with-an-optional-twin-turbo-v6-r1571 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
May 15, 2013
 
As General Motors told us back in March and is now fact: The 2014 Cadillac XTS will get twin-turbocharged 3.6L V6 engine that premiered in the 2014 CTS. In the XTS, the twin-turbo 3.6L produces 410 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque (down 10 horsepower and 61 pound-feet compared to the CTS). The twin-turbo 3.6L will be paired with a six-speed automatic. Models equipped with the twin-turbo will have a unique grille and deck lid identification. The current DI 3.6L V6 will remain as the XTS' base engine.
 
Also new for the 2014 XTS is an optional Automatic Parking Assist which uses a ultrasonic sensors to find a spot and then the vehicle takes control of moving the vehicle into place. The driver controls the accelerator, brake, and transmission. 
 
Other changes for the 2014 XTS include electric power steering, Intellibeam headlights that automatically switch between high- and low-beam, optional rear-seat entertainment system, and number of other items.
 
No word yet if the 2014 Cadillac XTS will see a price increase or not.
 
Source: Cadillac
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
 
Press Release is on Page 2

 
Cadillac XTS - 2014

New for 2014
- Cadillac Twin-Turbo V-6 with 410 hp (306 kW) – SAE certified
- Automatic Parking Assist (FWD models)
- Electric power steering (FWD models)
- Intellibeam headlamps
- Rear-seat entertainment system
- Front passenger seat memory feature
- Revised rear-seat armrest with wood trim, radio controls and sunshade control (if equipped)
- Opaque sunroof sunshade

2014 CADILLAC XTS OFFERS TWIN-TURBO V-6, AUTOMATIC PARKING ASSIST

The Cadillac XTS is one of the most technologically advanced production cars in the brand's history, delivering the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are brand signatures in a unique package tuned for a new generation of luxury customers.

Cadillac's all-new, power-dense Twin-Turbo V-6 engine highlights new features for 2014, along with technologies including available Automatic Parking Assist and Intellibeam, as well as electric power steering on all front-wheel-drive models. Additional new and revised features include:
- An available rear-seat entertainment system with twin DVD screens that fold out of the backs of the front seats
- Available front passenger seat memory feature
- Revised rear-seat armrest with wood trim, radio controls and sunshade control (if equipped)
- Opaque sunroof sunshade.

XTS is offered in a well-equipped standard model and three optional collections: Luxury, Premium and Platinum. The XTS Platinum represents the highest level of technology and luxury, including a unique front appearance, wheels and interior colors, materials and trim.

Highlights for all collections include:
- Standard direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
- Available advanced all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
- Magnetic Ride Control, rear air springs, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo front brakes – all standard
- Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
- Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
- Folding rear-seat head restraints that enhance rear visibility
- Safety Alert Seat that pulses to alert the driver
- Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
- Short- and long-range radar systems that support adaptive cruise control, front/rear automatic brakes and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

XTS is the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control – the world's fastest-reacting suspension – while the advanced all-wheel-drive system uses Haldex technology with an electronic limited-slip differential to transfer power front-to-back, and side-to-side, along the rear axle. It is available on all three collections.

The XTS is also the most spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and is comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area, where it has 40 inches (1,016 mm) of rear legroom. That's about four more inches than the BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and about two more inches than the Audi A6.

And when it comes to trunk space, the XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding both midsize and full-size competitors – more than Audi A6 and A8L, BMW 5 and 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E- and S-Class. For XTS customers, the cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.

XTS design and exterior features
XTS's hardware and spatial dimensions are the foundational layers that support exceptional surface detail. Multidimensional elements, including the grille, headlamps and accent lighting, coalesce to give the XTS a presence and attention to detail unlike any Cadillac that has come before it.

The XTS's surface details also convey a more nuanced design philosophy, bringing elegance with refined, graceful forms and surfaces working harmoniously with established Cadillac linear forms. Additional features include:
- Unique "Twin-Turbo" grille and deck lid identification on models equipped with the 3.6L twin-turbo engine
- Premium chrome/satin-chrome grille finish on Platinum Collection
- Intellibeam automatic headlamp control is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Illuminating door handles are standard on all Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Capless fuel-filling system is standard on all models
- High-intensity discharge headlamps with Twilight Sentinel are standard on all models
- Adaptive Forward Lighting is standard on Premium and Platinum collections
- LED center high-mounted rear stop lamp is standard on all models
- Heated outside mirrors with auto-dimming feature, turn-signal indicators and puddle lamps are standard on all models
- Rainsense automatic windshield wipers are standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum collections
- Nineteen-inch polished aluminum wheels are standard on Luxury and Premium Collections
- Twenty-inch aluminum wheels with polished finish and chrome inserts are standard on the Platinum Collection
- Eight exterior color choices: Radiant Silver Metallic, Black Raven, Crystal Red Tintcoat, White Diamond Tricoat, Graphite Metallic, Black Diamond Tricoat, Silver Coast Metallic and Sapphire Blue Metallic.

XTS interior features
Like the exterior, the XTS's cabin extolls a multidimensional philosophy in a bold, elegant design that is also very efficient in the ways it encompasses passengers and cargo. It represents Cadillac's new expression of luxury also in its use of authentic materials and unprecedented connectivity. Platinum Collection models feature a fully wrapped leather interior with microfiber sueded headliner, as well as premium wood trim on the steering wheel, console, center stack, instrument panel and door panels.

Seating trim is offered with Soleil Keisel surfaces or premium Opus full leather – both with perforated detailing. Heated and ventilated seats are also offered. Additional interior features include:
- Adaptive remote start is standard on all models
- Audio system with Bose premium eight-speaker sound is standard on the base model and Luxury Collection
- Bose Studio Surround Sound with 14-speaker system with energy-efficient amplifier is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections
- Rear-seat entertainment system is available on Premium and Platinum Collections
- SiriusXM Satellite Radio (with free trial period) and HD radio are standard on all models
- Tri-zone automatic climate control is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard on the base model and Luxury Collection
- Leather-wrapped IP and door trim top pad, along with the center console, is standard on the Platinum Collection
- Color, reconfigurable 12.3-inch gauge cluster with driver information center is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections
- Head-Up Display with color readouts is standard on the Premium and Platinum Collections
- Illuminated entry and courtesy lighting is standard on all models
- Accent lighting, including LED spotlights with light pipes, is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Soleil Keisel leather seating surfaces with mini-perforated inserts are standard on the Standard model, Luxury and Premium Collections
- Opus full-leather seats with mini-perforated inserts are standard on the Platinum Collection
- Heated driver/front passenger and outboard rear passenger seats and vented driver/front passenger seats are standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Leather-accented steering wheel with wood accents and tap up/tap down transmission controls is standard
- Heated steering wheel is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Power rear window shade and manual rear side window shades are available on the Premium Collection and standard on the Platinum Collection
- Real wood trim is incorporated on all models
- Six interior color/trim combinations: Jet Black, Shale with Cocoa accents, Medium Titanium with Jet Black accents, Caramel with Jet Black accents, Jet Black with Light Wheat accents and Very Light Platinum with Dark Urban and Cocoa accents.

CUE details
Cadillac CUE is standard on all models. Its heart is the standard eight-inch (203 mm) screen in the center stack, the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls. Features include capacitive-touch control with proximity sensing, haptic feedback, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.

A 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable instrument cluster is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections. It features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS's technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car's design, capabilities and performance.

XTS powertrains
The new Cadillac Twin-Turbo 3.6L V-6 is available in the XTS, delivering SAE-certified 410 horsepower (306 kW) and 369 lb.-ft. of torque (500 Nm), making it one of the most power-dense six-cylinder engines in the segment. A pair of smaller turbochargers and an efficient charge air cooler help provide more immediate power delivery, while peak torque is sustained over a broad range – 1,900 to 5,600 rpm – for a confident feeling of power in almost all driving conditions, such as accelerating or overtaking traffic on the highway.

The twin-turbo engine is a comprehensive upgrade on the 60-degree, 3.6L DOHC V-6 that is offered as the standard engine in the XTS. However, almost every component is unique. New features include:
- All-new cylinder block casting
- Strengthened connecting rods
- Machined, domed aluminum pistons with top steel ring carrier for greater strength
- 10.2:1 compression ratio
- Patented, integrated charge air cooler system with low-volume air ducts
- Two turbochargers produce more than 12 pounds of boost (80 kPa)
- Vacuum-actuated wastegates with electronic control valves
- All-new direct injection fuel system
- Tuned air inlet and outlet resonators, aluminum cam covers and other features that contribute to exceptional quietness and smoothness.

The cylinder heads are also unique to the Cadillac Twin-Turbo. They feature a high-tumble intake port design that enhances the motion of the air charge for a more-efficient burn when it is mixed with the direct-injected fuel and ignited in the combustion chamber.

The XTS's standard 3.6L V-6 is rated at 304 horsepower (224 kW) and 264 lb.-ft. of torque (355 Nm). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold that saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.

The engines are matched with six-speed automatic transmissions with tap-shift control.

XTS driving experience
A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies – all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed, ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection, and serves as the foundation for the advanced chassis system.

A smart all-wheel-drive system with Haldex technology – with an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels – complements an advanced HiPer Strut front suspension and standard Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling traits. A linked H-arm design with "air springs" comprises the rear suspension.

HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride-and-handling characteristics in four significant ways:
- Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
- Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
- Reduces torque steer
- Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.

Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control – "reading" the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

New for 2014, a premium electric, variable-assist power steering gear is employed with all front-wheel-drive models. It is designed to deliver excellent response and on-center characteristics, while enhancing efficiency by drawing energy only when the wheels are turned.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and four-wheel disc brakes (front Brembo brakes) with four-channel antilock brakes – all features that add important layers of control to the driving experience. Like Magnetic Ride Control, XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac's V-Series of high-performance models.

XTS safety
The XTS's technology fundamentally supports a range of advanced safety features, based on a "control and alert" strategy that extends the vision around the vehicle. It helps drivers identify potential crash situations and even intervenes when a crash threat appears more imminent, employing visual, audible and tactile (vibration) alerts, depending on the feature.

The alerts are designed to identify obstacles with sufficient warning to give the driver time to react and make changes – including the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver's seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern. The intervening features, including Automatic Collision Preparation and front and rear automatic brakes, take over if the threat appears more immediate or the driver does not react to previous alerts.

The Driver Awareness Packageis standard on the Premium and Platinum Collections and available on the Luxury Collection. It includes:
- Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Alert
- Safety Alert Seat
- Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Reflected LED display.

The new Intellibeam feature automatically deploys high-beam headlamps when needed and instantly turns them down when oncoming traffic is detected.

The Driver Assist Package is standard on the Platinum and available on Premium Collections. It includes:
- The Driver Awareness Package
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Front Automatic Brake
- Rear Automatic Brake
- Automatic Collision Preparation.

Additional safety features include dual-stage frontal air bags, knee air bags, side-impact air bags, head-curtain air bags and seat side-impact air bags for outboard rear passengers. Also, a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections. Head-up display and full-speed adaptive cruise control are available.

The XTS also offers Automatic Parking Assist, which enables the car to parks itself in parallel spaces. It uses ultrasonic sensors to locate a suitable space and maneuver the car into the space. The driver is required to only engage reverse and apply the accelerator and brake pedals.

XTS and OnStar
One year of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on XTS. OnStar is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology.

OnStar's RemoteLink Mobile App allows smartphone users to control vehicle functions, access vehicle information and send directions directly to the vehicle. An opt-in service called FamilyLink allows subscribers to stay connected to loved ones by checking the location of their vehicle online or by signing up for vehicle location alerts.]]> Wed, 15 May 2013 17:07:30 +0000 20aeb8a8621709e3ac91e891e7c62f8f Cadillac To Avoid The German Automakers Drive For Volume http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-to-avoid-the-german-automakers-drive-for-volume-r1569 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
May 14, 2013
 
While Cadillac is attacking the German automakers with the compact ATS and upcoming CTS, one place you will not see the crest and shield do battle is in the volume race.
 
"We're not going to be in every single segment that they're in," said General Motors CFO Dan Ammann to Automotive News.
 
"In some ways, I think that not having the pressure to sell the last incremental car at whatever cost … is actually not a bad place to be right now."
 
Now, Cadillac has a different set of circumstances than the German automakers.  For one, Cadillac has a much smaller lineup and sales when compared to the Germans. Now GM has announced that Cadillac will be expanding into other markets in the coming years and to fill out the lineup with new and redesigned models by 2015. 
 
But what Ammann said about Cadillac not being apart of every segment is a bit reassuring. With the German automakers going after every segment, it could cause damage in the long run with their premium position.
 
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 15:46:50 +0000 85b9a5ac91cd629bd3afe396ec07270a Cadillac Dealers Are Shown The ATS Coupe and New Escalade http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-dealers-are-shown-the-ats-coupe-and-new-escalade-r1544 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
April 29, 2013
 
Oh to be a fly on the wall during this meeting. Automotive News reports that at a at a national dealer meeting in Las Vegas last month, General Motors introduced the new ATS Coupe and 2015 Escalade.
 
As we reported last week, Cadillac has begun to work on the ATS Coupe. Dealers who were at the meeting say coupe is expected to reach showrooms next spring. Dealers also said that executives hope the new coupe will help bring in a younger crowd. Cadillac is keeping quiet on the powertrain lineup, but Automotive News guesses that ATS Coupe will have the same powertrain lineup as the ATS Sedan.
 
As for the 2015 Escalade, dealers say the exterior design is evolutionary  Inside sees some dramatic changes as wood and aluminum trim are placed throughout and the third-row will be electronically controlled.
 
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:11:45 +0000 049a632efba268d49b6a861759a4268a Spying: Cadillac ATS Coupe http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/spying-cadillac-ats-coupe-r1538 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
April 24, 2013
 
It has been speculated and talked about for months on end, and it now seems to be real. New spy photos released yesterday show  that there is an ATS coupe in development.
 
The photos reveal a mule looking like the current CTS coupe running around. The indication that has everyone believing that its an ATS coupe; the proportions. The mule appears to be using a short wheelbase, not a long one like you would see on the CTS coupe.
 
We'll be keeping a close eye on this story and report if we have any new updates.
 
Source: Autoweek
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Wed, 24 Apr 2013 02:37:30 +0000 cf55a3f1c3e9436d5febcd736ed7fc43 Rumorpile: What To Possibly Expect In The 2014 Cadillac Escalade http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/rumorpile-what-to-possibly-expect-in-the-2014-cadillac-escalade-r1536 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
April 23, 2013
 
CarScoops has learned from a contact of theirs some information about what to expect with the new 2014 Cadillac Escalade.
 
The contact says the new Escalade will stick with its boxy looks on the exterior and use headlights similar to the ones used on the ELR. The back end has taillights that "run from the roof down, being thinnest closest to the roof" and similar in looks to the CTS wagon.
 
Inside, the contact says the new Escalade will feature much higher quality materials, making it more luxurious.
 
"The interior design is real everything. Real wood, metal, leather," the contact said.
 
Source: CarScoops
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Tue, 23 Apr 2013 01:20:16 +0000 8ee7730e97c67473a424ccfeff49ab20 Cadillac Announces Some Executive Changes http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-announces-some-executive-changes-r1528 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
April 17, 2013
 
Cadillac has announced some executive changes to help take full advantage of the sale increases the brand is experiencing. 
 
Don Butler who is Cadillac's U.S. VP of marketing will become VP of global Cadillac strategic development. Butler's goal in this new position is to drive the next phase of Cadillac growth internationally," planning strategy and developing new markets.
 
Taking Butler's place as Cadillac's U.S. VP of marketing will be Steve Majoros. Majoros worked at Campbell-Ewald as its managing director and has "Like a Rock" and "American Revolution" campaigns under his belt.
 
Source: General Motors
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
 
Press Release is on Page 2

 
Cadillac Leadership Moves Drive Further Growth
  • New alignment supports global expansion
DETROIT, 2013-04-12 – As part of its ongoing global growth, Cadillac today enhanced its leadership team with two new executive appointments aimed at extending the brand's momentum.

U.S. Vice President of Marketing Don Butler will take on the position of Global Cadillac Strategic Development vice president. In this newly created role, Butler will drive the next phase of Cadillac growth internationally, including new market development and strategic global planning. He will continue to report to Bob Ferguson, GM vice president, Global Cadillac.

"Cadillac is continuing to expand in our home market and globally, which demands that we continually enhance our team's focus and capabilities," said Ferguson. "Don's international experience and deep product knowledge will be major assets as we take our global growth to the next level."

Steve Majoros is named director, Global Cadillac Marketing. He will report to Ferguson and will lead the Cadillac global marketing team. In his new role, Majoros will assume responsibility for domestic and global marketing to ensure tight coordination between Cadillac's marketing, advertising and sales field teams. Prior to joining Cadillac, Steve was managing director, Campbell-Ewald.

"Steve's extensive expertise in automotive marketing and his proven leadership record will significantly strengthen Cadillac's focus on global expansion," said Ferguson. "In our continuing effort to elevate Cadillac, Steve's unique perspective will complement our already-strong organization."

Cadillac ended the first quarter of 2013 as the fastest growing full-line luxury brand in the United States, with sales increasing 38 percent. Brand growth has been driven by the all-new ATS sport sedan, the current North American Car of the Year, and the new XTS luxury sedan. Cadillac began the next phase of its ongoing global growth plan recently, with the start of production of the XTS in China, leading the brand's expansion in the world's largest luxury market. Earlier this year, Cadillac revealed the next models in its product-driven expansion, the 2014 Cadillac ELR extended range electric vehicle and the all new Cadillac CTS.

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.]]> Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:14:26 +0000 62d75fb2e3075506e8837d8f55021ab1 Rumorpile: Yes To ATS Coupe, Uncertain On CTS Coupe, No To Wagons http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/rumorpile-yes-to-ats-coupe-uncertain-on-cts-coupe-no-to-wagons-r1507 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
April 8, 2013
 
Car and Driver recently checked in with their sources on what the future holds for certain Cadillac models. 
 
We'll start with the current generation CTS Coupe and Wagon. These two models will likely stick around for one more year and be built alongside the new CTS. After this, both models will be shown the door.
 
Don't expect a next-gen CTS Wagon to appear though. Sales of the CTS Wagon were only 7% of sales last year (about 3500 wagons) and the brand just doesn't see a reason to do another one. (Quick sidebar: out of those 3500 CTS Wagons, 1 out of every 3 were the V model.)
 
As for the CTS Coupe, that's a bit murky. C&D says the CTS Coupe will not return for a second performance. Instead, an ATS Coupe will be introduced. 
 
Not so fast though... This past week, Edmunds wrote that a next-generation CTS Coupe is a possibility. This comes from an interview with Jim Vurpillat, Cadillac global marketing director who said this,
 
"We will see where we go (the current CTS coupe) was the No. 1 selling luxury coupe in the industry. It is a good segment for us."
 
Source: Car and Driver, Edmunds
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Mon, 08 Apr 2013 03:27:37 +0000 a1d438de7c606094c7a374b8da4418ad Cadillac Unveils New A Twin-Turbo 3.6L V6 For The 2014 CTS http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-unveils-new-a-twin-turbo-36l-v6-for-the-2014-cts-r1440 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
March 18, 2013
 
The new Cadillac CTS will be introduced next week at the New York Auto Show, but the brand decided to announce the engine lineup for it this week.
 
The big news for the CTS is the introduction of the twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 good for 420 horsepower and 430 pound-feet. That is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination runs to 60 MPH in 4.6 seconds, a top speed of 170 MPH, and returns an estimated MPG of 17 City/25 Highway.
 
“The new Cadillac Twin-Turbo brings a new dimension of technologically advanced performance to the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan,” said David Leone, executive chief engineer. “Delivering power and sophistication, it marks another large step forward in the product-driven expansion of Cadillac.”
 
This engine will also be available in the 2014 XTS.
 
Other engines for the 2014 CTS will include the 2.0L turbo-four making 272 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and the 3.6L V6 with 321 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque.
 
Source: Cadillac
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
 
Press Release is on Page 2

 
Cadillac Twin-Turbo Debuts in All-New 2014 CTS Sedan
 
2013-03-18
 
  • 420 horsepower (313 kW) / 430 lb-ft of torque (583 Nm) – SAE certified
  • Most power-dense six-cylinder in segment at 118 hp/liter
  • Cadillac’s first twin-turbo engine and eight-speed automatic transmission
DETROIT – Cadillac today announced details of a new Twin-Turbo V-6 engine and eight-speed transmission – firsts for the brand and signature features of the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS midsize luxury sedan debuting next week at the New York Auto Show.
 
The Cadillac Twin-Turbo V-6 is the most power-dense six-cylinder engine in the midsize luxury segment – a 3.6L with 118 horsepower per liter (88 kW/liter) – and the eight-speed automatic enhances fuel economy and acceleration over a six-speed automatic.
 
“The new Cadillac Twin-Turbo brings a new dimension of technologically advanced performance to the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan,” said David Leone, executive chief engineer. “Delivering power and sophistication, it marks another large step forward in the product-driven expansion of Cadillac.”
 
Rated at an SAE-certified 420 horsepower (313 kW) and 430 lb.-ft. of torque (583 Nm), it is the most powerful V-6 ever from General Motors. It also has 15 percent greater power density than BMW 535i’s turbocharged 3.0L six, which is rated at 300 horsepower (223 kW), for a ratio of 100 horsepower per liter (74 kW/liter) – and even the BMW 550i’s TwinPower 4.4L V-8, rated at 400 horsepower (298 kW), or 91 horsepower per liter (68 kW/liter). Power density is a measure of efficiency for an engine’s size.
 
A pair of smaller turbochargers and an efficient charge air cooler help provide more immediate power delivery. Additionally, approximately 90 percent of the 3.6L Twin-Turbo’s peak torque is available from 2,500 rpm to 5,500 rpm, giving the engine a broad torque curve that customers will feel as strong, willing power in almost all driving conditions, such as accelerating or overtaking traffic on the highway.
 
Those features help the new CTS sedan reach 60 mph from a standstill in an estimated 4.6 seconds and achieve an estimated top speed of 170 mph (274 kph).
 
The new Cadillac Twin-Turbo will expand the performance envelope of the upcoming 2014 CTS midsize luxury sedan, launching this fall in the United States. The engine will also will be offered in the 2014 XTS large luxury sedan this fall.
 
The new engine is a comprehensive upgrade on the 60-degree, 3.6L DOHC V-6 offered in today’s SRX, XTS and ATS. However, almost every component is unique. New features include:
  • All-new cylinder block casting
  • All-new cylinder head castings
  • Strengthened connecting rods
  • Machined, domed aluminum pistons with top steel ring carrier for greater strength
  • 10.2:1 compression ratio
  • Patented, integrated charge air cooler system with low-volume air ducts
  • Two turbochargers produce more than 12 pounds of boost (80 kPa)
  • Vacuum-actuated wastegates with electronic control valves
  • All-new direct injection fuel system
  • Tuned air inlet and outlet resonators, aluminum cam covers and other features that contribute to exceptional quietness and smoothness.
The 2014 CTS sedan will also feature the naturally aspirated 3.6L V-6 rated at 321 horsepower, as well as a 2.0L turbocharged engine rated at an estimated 272 horsepower.
 
Proven foundation, new features
Because the Cadillac Twin-Turbo is based on the same architecture as the existing naturally aspirated 3.6L V-6, it benefits from many proven technologies including dual-overhead camshafts, variable valve timing and direct injection. Key features also include:
  • A durable forged steel crankshaft that contributes to greater high-rpm smoothness
  • A friction-reducing polymer coating on the piston skirts, as well as fully floating wrist pins that help reduce friction
  • Pressure-actuated oil squirters drench the underside of each piston and the surrounding cylinder wall with an extra layer of cooling, friction-reducing oil
  • A cast aluminum oil pan is stiffer to improve powertrain rigidity and reduce vehicle vibration. It bolts to the transmission bell housing as well as the engine block, eliminating points of vibration.
The cylinder block casting is unique to the turbocharged engine with cast-in provisions for turbocharger coolant and oil connections, as well as positive crankcase ventilation passages. It uses nodular iron main bearing caps for greater strength to manage the higher cylinder pressures that come with turbocharging.
 
The cylinder heads are also unique to the Cadillac Twin-Turbo. They feature a high-tumble intake port design that enhances the motion of the air charge for a more-efficient burn when it is mixed with the direct-injected fuel and ignited in the combustion chamber. The topology of the pistons, which feature centrally located dishes to direct the fuel spray from the injectors, is an integral design element of the chamber design, as the piston heads become part of the combustion chamber with direct injection.
 
“The high-tumble heads were developed with advanced modeling programs that helped us determine the optimal design in less time and with less trial and error,” said Richard Bartlett, assistant chief engineer for the 3.6L engine. “Literally hundreds of simulations were performed to optimize the port flow, injector spray angle and pattern, and piston topology to produce a highly efficient yet powerful combustion chamber.”
 
Large, 38.3-mm intake valves and 30.6-mm sodium-filled exhaust valves enable the engine to process tremendous airflow. In some conditions, the continuously variable valve timing system enables overlap conditions – when the intake and exhaust valves in a combustion chamber are briefly open at the same time – to promote airflow scavenging that helps spool the turbochargers quicker for faster boost production.
 
Hardened AR20 valve seat material on the exhaust side is used for its temperature robustness, while the heads are sealed to the block with multilayer-steel gaskets designed for the pressure of the turbocharging system.
 
As with the naturally aspirated 3.6L, the heads feature integral exhaust manifolds, although upper and lower water jackets were added to the heads to provide uniform temperature distribution and optimal heat rejection. On top of the heads, new aluminum cam covers enhance quietness and are designed with greater positive crankcase ventilation volume to support the turbo system.
 
Integrated charge air cooling
Another unique feature of the Cadillac Twin-Turbo is its efficient manner of processing the pressurized air charge through the cylinder heads and into the combustion chambers. A single, centrally located throttle body atop the engine controls the air charge from both turbochargers after the temperature is reduced in the intercooler. This efficient design fosters more immediate torque response, for a greater feeling of power on demand, and reduces complexity by eliminating the need for a pair of throttle bodies.
 
Using a pair of smaller turbochargers rather than a single, larger turbo also helps ensure immediate performance, because smaller turbochargers spool up – achieve boost-producing turbine speed – quicker to generate horsepower-building air pressure that is fed into the engine. The Cadillac Twin-Turbo’s integrated charge air cooling system also contributes to its immediate response, because the compressors blow through very short pipes up to the intercooler.
 
With no circuitous heat-exchanger tubing, there is essentially no lag with the response of the turbochargers. In fact, airflow routing volume is reduced by 60 percent when compared with a conventional design that features a remotely mounted heat exchanger.
 
“It is a very short path from the turbos to the throttle body,” said Bartlett. “The compressors draw their air directly from the inlet box and send their pressurized air through the intercooler basically immediately, giving the new CTS a tremendous feeling of power on demand.”
 
The charge-cooling heat exchangers lower the air charge temperature by more than 130 degrees F (74 C), packing the combustion chambers with cooler, denser air for greater power. The twin-brick configuration of the heat exchangers is similar in design and function to the 6.2L supercharged “LSA” engine used on the current CTS-V Series.
 
“The LSA engine showed us the efficiencies of mounting the intercooler on top of the engine, especially when it came to packaging and maintaining a short, unobstructed path for the air charge,” said Bartlett. “It’s efficient and effective – and we wanted to build on that experience.”
 
The air cooler system achieves more than 80 percent cooling efficiency with only about 1 psi (7 kPa) flow restriction at peak power, for fast torque production.
 
Vacuum-activated wastegates
Unique vacuum-actuated wastegates – one per turbocharger – and electronic vacuum-actuated recirculation valves are used with the 3.6L Twin-Turbo for better management of the engine’s boost pressure and subsequent torque response for smoother, more consistent performance across the rpm band.
 
A wastegate is used to regulate the boost pressure of the engine. It provides a method to bypass the exhaust flow from the turbo’s turbine wheel, which can be reintroduced into the exhaust stream – via a bypass tube – to maintain optimal turbine speed across the rpm band. Conventional wastegates are pressure-activated, allowing control of the actuator.
 
The Cadillac Twin-Turbo’s vacuum-activated wastegate valves provide more consistent boost control, particularly at lower rpm, to enhance low-rpm torque, for a greater feeling of power at low speeds. They are independently controlled on each engine bank to balance the compressors’ output to achieve more precise boost pressure response.
 
The wastegates also work in concert with the recirculation valves to eliminate co-surge from the turbos – a condition that can result in dynamic flow reversal, such as the moment immediately after the throttle closes. This overall system integration contributes to the engine’s smoother, more consistent feeling of performance.
 
In addition to the vacuum-actuated wastegates and recirculation valves, the engine employs dual mass air flow sensors and an integral inlet air temperature/humidity sensor, a dual-compressor inlet pressure sensor and dual manifold pressure sensors.
 
Eight speeds, no waiting
The Cadillac Twin-Turbo is paired with a high-performance, paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission that offers efficiency and performance advantages over a six-speed transmission – including 1.5-percent greater fuel economy.
 
The new paddle-shift eight-speed delivers smooth, quick shift performance – as quick as 0.3-second on wide-open-throttle upshifts – with the quietness, smoothness and refinement Cadillac customers expect. Smaller gear steps – closer ratios – support world-class performance, with quicker, more imperceptible shifting.
 
The wide, 6.71 gear spread of the transmission enables the CTS to deliver strong performance at all rpm levels, while achieving good fuel economy on the highway. A “tall,” 0.69-ratio eighth-gear also helps maintain a low engine speed of approximately 1,800 rpm at 70 mph – about 200 rpm lower than a six-speed – which not only enhances efficiency but contributes to a quieter driving experience.
 
Complete electronic control of the transmission enables it to select the best gear for the driving conditions, allowing the transmission to “skip” one or more gears, if appropriate, when up-shifting or down-shifting. In manual mode, torque converter lockup is used in gears two through eight to balance performance and efficiency, while preserving the maximum torque multiplication in first gear for optimal launch performance
 
The CTS development team tailored the transmission for the high torque output of Cadillac 3.6L Twin-Turbo, which included stronger gear sets and a greater number of clutch plates. The team also wove in driver-selectable performance features enable the transmission to hold lower gears during certain performance-driving situations, for a more connected and responsive driving experience with the new turbocharged engine.
 
Paddle-shift control enables the driver manual control of the gear changes, for the ultimate feeling of control of the turbocharged CTS.]]> Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:30:01 +0000 acf8b366843afe53ac7efe9af8c1b90b Rumorpile: Good and Bad News For Cadillac http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/rumorpile-good-and-bad-news-for-cadillac-r1369 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
February 18, 2013
 
Motor Trend has gotten their hands on some new information on what's coming down the pipeline at Cadillac. Some of it is good news, while other has us worried.
 
We'll start with the bad stuff first. Apparently GM's bean counters are making a comeback. A source says that the new Omega-based flagship has seen its door handles switched from ones that cost $5.00 to ones that cost $1.80. On the surface this seems a bit ridiculous, but considering this new model will compete with the likes of the BMW 7-Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and others, every little thing counts.
 
There is also talk about the next-generation CTS Sportwagon and Coupe not appearing due to the bean counters. Now I have been hearing that there would not be CTS Sportwagon mostly due to the poor sales. We'll be keeping a close eye on this.
 
Now onto some happier news. Multiple sources tell Motor Trend that Cadillac is giving second thoughts to its naming convention. No one seems to like the ELR name that will be appearing on Cadillac's upcoming electric vehicle. Cadillac is looking through their back catalog to see what names they could use.
 
Also in the pipeline is the ATS-V. Motor Trend reports that a twin-turbo V6 will be the engine of choice. Those who were hoping for V8 might want to stay tuned as there is a chance of V8 ATS-V coming towards the end of the ATS' lifecycle.
 
Finally is next-generation CTS-V. Motor Trend reports that GM is considering using using a variation of the C7's LT1 engine that will either use supercharging or turbocharging. 
 
Source: Motor Trend
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Sun, 17 Feb 2013 22:14:28 +0000 a6a38989dc7e433f1f42388e7afca318 <![CDATA[Cadillac's Global Vice President Reveals Some New Products]]> http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillacs-global-vice-president-reveals-some-new-products-r1349 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
February 11, 2013
 
Bob Ferguson, Cadillac's global vice president revealed some interesting information about what's coming down the pipeline for the wreath and crest.
 
For starters, Ferguson revealed that the next Cadillac CTS would be unveiled at March's New York Auto Show, confirming what we've been hearing for the past month or so. Furguson also said the CTS would be going on sale sometime in the fall.
 
"It's just gorgeous. We are positioning that car as a step up, so there will be a marketing challenge to reposition that car," Ferguson told the Detroit Free Press just outside of the National Automobile Dealers Association Convention in Orlando.
 
Ferguson also said GM would soon be introducing a coupe version of the ATS. Ferguson didn't say when, but did say it would go on sale sometime in 2014.
 
Source: Detroit Free Press
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 02:45:02 +0000 56710c488f68ac4f0fc3d54a7464821f Cadillac Working On An Update For CUE http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-working-on-an-update-for-cue-r1331 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
February 6, 2013
 
Stop me if you heard this before. An automaker introduces a new and shiny infotainment system that uses a large screen, capacitive touchscreen and buttons, fancy graphics, and number of other features. Reviewers and people who buy said vehicles with the new infotainment system complain the system is too slow and laggy, thus prompting the automaker to issue an update. Ford is one of those automakers that has and is still going through this process and will soon be joined by Cadillac with their CUE system.
 
According to Wired Autopia, Cadillac will launch an update to CUE that will improve the haptic feedback of both the touchscreen controls and the capacitive buttons on the center stack.
 
“We’re hearing about our haptics and the desire for quicker responses. And we’re making a modification that will be released sometime later this year,” said CUE’s design manager Jeff Massimilla.
 
The update will be done at Cadillac dealers, even though models equipped with CUE do have an embedded data connection.
 
“The Cadillac customer expects the dealership to do the work,” said Massimilla.
 
Source: Wired Autopia
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Wed, 06 Feb 2013 20:36:26 +0000 53dbbe2e28590c4e6831e07f3f0f798a Cadillac Could Double Their Lineup http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-could-double-their-lineup-r1281 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
January 17, 2013
 
The 2014 Cadillac ELR is the first model of a new global product offensive by the brand that could see the lineup expand up to ten models by 2016. According the Reuters, Cadillac hopes to grow global sales. The models potentially include a flagship sedan, a small crossover, and a small car.
 
Currently, almost 75% of Cadillac sales come from the U.S. In 2012, Cadillac dropped from forth to fifth place due to sales sliding.
 
"We're saying it over and over and over that we want Cadillac to be a truly global luxury brand. We have the core of a very good product set now and we're working hard at examining the options to make it even better. You can expect a more robust lineup," said Bob Ferguson, vice president of global Cadillac.
 
Sources tell Reuters that after the ELR, Cadillac is working on a flagship sedan named the LTS to compete with the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The LTS will use the new Omega RWD architecture. Also in the cards is the expansion of Cadillac's crossover lineup by adding a smaller model to compete with the BMW X1 and a larger seven-seat model. There is also a ATS coupe and a smaller Alpha sub-compact car.
 
Analysts have doubts about this plan, citing that certain markets like Europe could take up fifteen years to gain a size-able share.

"I'm not convinced Cadillac can pull it off," said Jim Hall, managing director of consulting firm 2953 Analytics. "They may still be suffering from 'Lincoln disease' - the lack of long-term commitment by the parent company."
 
GM will also focus on building Cadillac's presence in China, where it will start building the full-size XTS sedan in about two weeks.
 
Analysts do agree that with the expansion of the lineup, it will help strengthen the brand.
 
"Even if Cadillac's not commanding the same price as the Germans or selling as many cars, people for the first time in decades are saying these are good cars," said John Casesa, senior managing director with Guggenheim Securities.
 
Source: Reuters
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Thu, 17 Jan 2013 06:29:05 +0000 33b5450d73826812cafc8a866624da7a Detroit Auto Show: 2014 Cadillac ELR http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/detroit-auto-show-2014-cadillac-elr-r1271 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
January 15, 2013
 
In 2009, Cadillac unveiled the Converj concept which melded the Volt's Voltec powertrain in a drop-dead gorgeous body. Today at the Detroit Auto Show, Cadillac revealed the production model of the Converj, which is named the ELR.
 
The ELR stays very much true to the Converj's styling. The result is a very handsome and daring vehicle to wear the crest and wreath. The design features a low, fast roofline; strong shoulder line running from the doors towards the end of the vehicle, twenty-inch wheels, and LED head and taillights.
 
The ELR's interior is very luxurious. Designers lined the interior with stitched leather, suede microfiber, wood, and carbon fiber. There is also a load new tech including Cadillac's CUE infotainment system, digital instrument panel that is configurable, 10-speaker Bose system with noise cancellation, and a industry first; "power-assisted" sliding cupholder cover. (Not a joke).
 
Under the ELR's skin is the same Voltec powertrain that is in the Chevrolet Volt. That means a 1.4L inline-four that acts as the generator, two electric motors, and the T-shaped, 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Total output is 207 horsepower and and 295 pound-feet of peak torque thanks to a reprogrammed electric-drive controller. 0-60 MPH takes about eight seconds. The ELR will be able to travel up 35 Miles on electric power alone, a decrease from 38 Miles on the Volt. Total range also decreases from 380 Miles on the Volt to 300 Miles on the ELR.
 
Cadillac says the ELR will be a pleasure to drive thanks to stiffer body structure, electronically controlled, variable-rate dampers; and an available sport program that changes throttle response, steering effort and damper settings. The ELR also features a "Regen on Demand" feature that temporarily increases the regenerative braking level by the driver using the steering-wheel paddles.
 
The Cadillac ELR begins production in late 2013, with sales beginning in 2014.
 
 

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Album: 2014 Cadillac ELR
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Album: 2014 Cadillac ELR from the show floor
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William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
 
Press Release is on Page 2

 
Cadillac ELR Electrifies the Luxury Market

Luxury coupe blends dramatic design, industry-leading extended range technology

DETROIT – Cadillac unveils the 2014 ELR today at the North American International Auto Show. The sleek luxury coupe features the first application of Extended Range Electric Vehicle technology by a full-line luxury automotive brand.

"ELR is an unprecedented combination of luxury, advanced engineering and progressive design in a coupe that is both sporty and environmentally friendly," said Bob Ferguson, Cadillac global vice president. "This is a pivotal moment in Cadillac's history, as we continue our product-driven expansion."

The ELR delivers on the promise of the Converj Concept on which it is based. The exterior establishes a new, progressive proportion for the brand while the interior introduces a new design theme that will define future Cadillac models, emphasizing modern elegance, technology and precisely crafted details.

Industry-leading Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology provides full driving range exceeding 300 miles (480 km), combining pure electric driving and an efficient, range-extending generator.

"ELR marks a fresh, even surprising new dimension of Cadillac," Ferguson said. "An additional aspect of ELR's appeal to will be exclusivity. It will be a specialized offering produced in limited numbers."

ELR's confident and responsive EREV driving technology is enhanced with exclusive Regen on Demand and selectable drive modes that enhance driving and make the most of efficiency. Regen on Demand allows the driver to temporarily regenerate energy from the ELR's momentum into electricity that can be stored in the battery pack for later use. It is engaged via steering-wheel paddles adapted from traditional performance cars.

The industry-leading, proven EREV technology is uniquely tuned for Cadillac in the ELR. Most daily commutes will require zero gasoline with zero emissions. Longer trips are free from electric-vehicle range anxiety because EREV technology enables the same long-distance freedom as a conventional car.

Additional vehicle highlights include:

• Enhanced AT-PZEV emissions meet California's criteria for single-occupancy access to high occupancy vehicle lanes
• Light-emitting diode (LED) headlamps, daytime running lamps and taillamps, as well as signature front and rear lighting elements
• Twenty-inch wheels paired with tires designed to balance responsive handling and a comfortable ride with efficiency
• Interior design featuring cut-and-sew accented leather incorporating sueded microfiber, chrome, wood and available carbon fiber finishes throughout
• Cadillac CUE with Navigation is standard. CUE is Cadillac's breakthrough system for connectivity and control, using Natural Voice Recognition, capacitive touch and hand gestures used on smart phones and tablets
• Programmable charging schedules and downloadable energy efficiency reports available online and through smartphone notification charging alerts
• Cadillac's advanced active safety features, including Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, along with available Side Blind Zone Alert with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and full-speed-range adaptive cruise control
• Advanced chassis and suspension systems, including HiPer Strut front suspension, compound-crank with Watts link rear suspension and Continuous Damping Control, which adjusts damping every two milliseconds for optimal ride and handling in all conditions
• Standard premium Bose 10-channel audio system with active noise cancellation.

ELR production begins in the United States in late 2013 with sales starting in early 2014 in North America and expanding to global markets including China and Europe.

Design
The Cadillac ELR has an aggressive, forward-leaning profile that introduces a new, progressive theme and proportion in Cadillac's design evolution. It carries over almost unchanged from the 2009 Converj concept that inspired it. The overall shape is reinforced by a prominent, sweeping body line accented by 20-inch wheels pushed to the edges of the body.

"The ELR represents a new dimension of Art & Science, the guiding philosophy of Cadillac," said Mark Adams, Cadillac design director. "Cadillac's DNA is innovation, with dramatic and provocative design. ELR delivers this in a luxury coupe that stands alone among major luxury brands globally."

Vertical headlamp and taillamp elements create Cadillac's signature for the ELR, day or night and from the front or rear – a brand tradition since 1948.

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the design as airflow is managed to help the vehicle slip through the air with minimal drag. A flush front fascia and grille – with active shutters behind the grille opening – as well as tapered fascia corners, enable air to move easily around the car to reduce drag. In the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler also manage airflow. An aggressive rake on the windshield and back glass help reduce turbulence and drag and contribute to ELR's 0.305 coefficient of drag.

Inside, the ELR's classic 2+2 layout is driver focused, emphasizing modern luxury, connectivity and precisely crafted details. The leather-trimmed interior blends authentic chrome and wood accents – and available carbon fiber trim – as well as a sueded microfiber headliner and steering wheel covered in leather and sueded microfiber. Additional features include:
• Eight-inch configurable instrument and driver information displays, offering four configurations ranging from elegantly simple to technologically enhanced information
• Auto-glide/power-assisted covered storage/cup holder in the center console
• Fold-down rear seat backs accommodate longer items, including multiple sets of golf clubs
• LED-powered accent lighting in the instrument panel and doors
• Available Opus semi-aniline leather seating.

Cadillac CUE with Navigation is standard and accessible through a large, eight-inch, full-color capacitive-touch screen in the center of the instrument panel. It supports the electrified driving experience with displays on driving efficiency, energy usage, charging options and more, in addition to a broad range of infotainment options.

Using Cadillac CUE via the touch screen features gesture recognition, proximity sensing (revealing information when needed) and a three-core microprocessor for faster response. Some features are accessible via steering-wheel controls and the motorized screen pivots up to reveal a hidden storage compartment with a USB port for phones and other personal items.

Driving Experience
The Cadillac ELR's dramatic design is matched with an engaging driving experience, supported by the EREV propulsion system calibrated for uncompromising performance. With 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm) – about 12 percent more than the 3.6L V-6 in the SRX – acceleration in the city and on the highway, including merging and passing, is achieved with reassuring power on demand.

Driving confidence is further enhanced by advanced suspension and damping systems, including Continuous Damping Control – which adjusts damping every two milliseconds – to maintain optimal vehicle ride control over varying road surfaces and profiles. The ELR rolls on 20-inch wheels with specially engineered low-rolling-resistance tires designed to balance excellent control and cornering capability with efficiency.

A solid, stable foundation underpins the ELR, featuring a body-frame-integral structure with main underbody rails running continuously from front to rear. Advanced, high-strength steels add strength and conserve weight. Additional contributors to the ELR's driving experience include:
• Wide front and rear tracks – 62.1 inches (1,578 mm) in front and 62.4 inches (1,585 mm) in the rear – along with a long wheelbase (106.1 inches / 2,695 mm) and a low center of gravity
• HiPer Strut front suspension featuring lightweight forged aluminum components for reduced weight and more nimble, responsive action
• Dual-pinion, rack-mounted electric power steering system with premium ZF steering gear designed to provide excellent feedback while helping to save fuel
• A semi-independent rear compound-crank suspension with Watts link that incorporates weight-optimized trailing arms to absorb lateral forces, allowing the suspension to be tuned to handle vertical, forward and rearward motions
• Hydraulic ride bushings in the front and rear suspensions
• An electro-hydraulic regenerative brake system that captures energy and sends it to the battery pack
• Standard chassis control systems include antilock brakes, traction control and StabiliTrak electronic stability control.

Because the ELR operates so quietly in all-electric mode, a driver-activated feature sounds a noise to alert pedestrians, particularly those with visual impairments, in an intersection. The alert was developed in conjunction with the American Federation of the Blind.

Propulsion and Charging Technology
The ELR is powered by GM EREV technology, combining pure electric drive and an efficient, range-extending 1.4L gasoline-powered electric generator capable of 154 kW (207 hp) of total system power.

The ELR's battery is a T-shaped, 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located along the centerline of the vehicle, between the front and rear wheels for optimal weight distribution. The 5.5-foot-long (1.6 m), 435-pound (198 kg) pack supplies energy to an advanced electric drive unit capable of 295 lb.-ft. of instant torque (400 Nm) to propel the vehicle. Using only the energy stored in the battery, the ELR will deliver a GM-estimated range of about 35 miles (56 km) of pure electric driving, depending on terrain, driving techniques and temperature.

A driver-selectable Hold mode directs when the ELR uses its electric generator. This feature helps optimize the electric-driving experience, allowing owners who mix city and highway driving to save the battery charge for city travel, where the ELR EV mode operates most efficiently.

Charging the ELR's battery can be done with a 120V electrical outlet or a dedicated 240V charging station. The vehicle can be completely recharged in about 4.5 hours using a 240V outlet, depending on the outside temperature.




Once the vehicle is plugged in, owners can schedule either immediate or delayed charges, even coordinating charging according to departure time or when electricity rates are lower. Owners also can manage and monitor the ELR online or with their smartphone and RemoteLink, a mobile app powered by OnStar.

The ELR's battery is covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.

Manufacturing
The Cadillac ELR will be manufactured at General Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant, the world's only automotive manufacturing facility that mass-produces extended-range electric vehicles for global markets in 21 countries. It is also home to Southeast Michigan's largest photovoltaic solar array. The 264,000-square-foot feature generates up to 516 kilowatts of electricity – enough to charge 150 ELRs per day.




 ]]> Tue, 15 Jan 2013 05:15:00 +0000 15fa1fad1fc582dd65403f6f950b1e21 Cadillac to unveil the ELR in Detroit http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-to-unveil-the-elr-in-detroit-r1211 December 18, 2012
Drew Dowdell
Managing Editor - CheersandGears.com

It is looking like GM is gearing up for a very busy auto show in Detroit this year. Today Cadillac released this teaser of their upcoming ELR luxury electric hybrid. Based on Voltec technology, the Cadillac ELR will begin production in late 2013 at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck plant where the Volt is currently built.

Rumor has it that the ELR will forgo the 1.4 liter engine the Volt uses and instead run with a new Opel engine displacing around 1.8 liters. Further backing that up will likely be a larger battery.

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Cadillac ELR Concept Gallery

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Drew Dowdell is Managing Editor of Cheersandgears.com and can be reached at Drew.Dowdell@CheersandGears.com or on twitter as @cheersngears]]> Tue, 18 Dec 2012 15:08:39 +0000 68dfff284e90ee47fcc6b4941047edad Cadillac ATS Stealing Sales From CTS, GM Cuts CTS Output http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/cadillac-news/cadillac-ats-stealing-sales-from-cts-gm-cuts-c-r1140 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
November 26, 2012

The Cadillac ATS was designed to compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and of course the BMW 3-Series.

Surprisingly, the new ATS appears to be cutting into the sales of another Cadillac, the CTS. Since the ATS was launched back in September, CTS sales have taken a nose dive. In October, CTS sales dropped 40% when compared to the same time last year. Edmunds.com data backs up this up with the ATS being cross-shopped with the CTS. Thankfully, the data from Edmunds also shows the ATS being cross-shopped with the 3-Series.

Is GM panicking with news like this? Well no. Chase Hawkins, Cadillac's U.S. sales chief tells Automotive News that they are not surprised with the ATS cannibalizing sales of the CTS. Hawkins says GM has a plan to deal with this; build less CTSes.

"We've planned for ATS to take some CTS customers out of the market who we otherwise would have seen. We definitely are going to be producing fewer CTSs next year to create some of that space for ATS," said Hawkins.

The next CTS, due out in late 2013 will move up in price and space, giving the two models a bit more breathing room.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Sun, 25 Nov 2012 22:37:57 +0000 81f7acabd411274fcf65ce2070ed568a