Two years ago, Cadillac introduced its new flagship model, the Celestiq, an electric liftback that is assembled almost entirely by hand. It offers a wide array of customization options, leading to its exclusivity: it is claimed that no two identical units will exist. Now, the flagship has been reimagined as the Cadillac Sollei convertible, showcasing the potential for expanding the lineup.
At first glance, the front of the Sollei convertible is unmistakably recognizable as the Cadillac Celestiq. However, differences become apparent upon closer inspection. For instance, the windshield frame is crafted from aluminum, which is also utilized for other body embellishments. The doors can open 90° and lack the usual handles; instead, discreet buttons have been installed for unlocking. The hardtop has been replaced with a soft roof that is finished in the same Manila Cream color as the body, a color first featured on Cadillacs in 1957. The separate taillights on the liftback pillars have been replaced with a continuous strip on the rear of the convertible.
Even more differences are present within the luxurious interior of the Cadillac Sollei convertible, although the 55-inch full-width “TV” screen remains the same as that in the original Celestiq liftback. The interior is adorned with intricately patterned wood inserts, created using five types of veneer, with each piece meticulously cut and installed within a metal frame. The seats are upholstered in nappa leather with a pink pigment that subtly shifts in color under sunlight.
A mycelium-based material has been utilized for the wireless charging pad and door pockets, suggesting that this fiber might replace genuine leather in interior finishes. A minibar featuring a custom decanter and glasses is situated between the rear seats. Bird motifs play a significant role in the interior design; for instance, specialized decoys have been installed to attract North American bullfinches and nuthatches. Additionally, the convertible comes with a magazine featuring illustrations of birds and an album containing accessories for sketching them.
The technical specifications of the Cadillac Sollei electric vehicle have not been disclosed. The original Celestiq liftback is built on the Ultium platform and features a fully controlled chassis, air suspension, and Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 adaptive shock absorbers. The combined output of the dual-motor all-wheel drive system is 608 hp and 870 Nm of torque. The traction battery has a capacity of 111 kWh, and the driving range is 483 km.
Considering the manual production of the base liftback, the Cadillac Sollei convertible has the potential to enter serial production, or at least be produced in limited numbers. However, Cadillac has yet to announce such plans, presumably gauging the response of potential buyers.
Discover the Luxurious Cadillac Sollei Convertible
Introduction to the Cadillac Sollei Convertible
Two years ago, Cadillac unveiled its new flagship model, the Celestiq, an electric liftback that is assembled almost by hand. It offers a wide range of customization options and corresponding exclusivity: it is stated that no two identical examples will be found. Now, the flagship has been transformed into the Cadillac Sollei convertible, an exquisite addition to the luxury car segment, showcasing the potential expansion of the range.
Exterior Design Features
At first glance, the front of the Sollei convertible is unmistakably recognizable as the donor Cadillac Celestiq. However, the differences begin further. Notable exterior features include:
- Aluminum Windshield Frame: The windshield frame is made of aluminum, used for other body decor as well.
- Unique Door Design: The doors swing open 90° and feature inconspicuous buttons instead of traditional handles.
- Soft Roof: The hard top has been replaced with a stunning soft roof, available in the Manila Cream color that first appeared on Cadillacs back in 1957.
- Solid Taillight Strip: The separate taillights on the liftback pillars are replaced by an elegant solid strip on the rear of the convertible.
Luxurious Interior Highlights
Even more differences are hidden in the luxurious interior of the Cadillac Sollei convertible. Although it retains the impressive 55-inch full-width “TV” from the original Celestiq liftback, other aspects of the interior offer a level of craftsmanship that sets it apart:
- Hand-Decorated Aesthetic: The interior is adorned with intricately patterned wood inserts, utilizing five types of veneers, each overlay meticulously cut and installed in a metal frame.
- Premium Seating: Seats are upholstered in nappa leather that incorporates a special pink pigment, changing hue slightly in sunlight.
- Mycelium-Based Material: This innovative material is used to trim the wireless charging pad and door pockets, offering a sustainable alternative to genuine leather.
- Minibar: Between the rear seats, a minibar features a custom decanter and glasses, enhancing the luxurious feel.
- Bird Motifs: The interior design celebrates nature with bird motifs, including decoys for attracting North American bullfinches and nuthatches.
Technical Specifications
While detailed specifications for the Cadillac Sollei electric car are yet to be disclosed, we can consider the features of the original Celestiq liftback for comparison:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Ultium |
| Chassis Control | Fully controlled chassis |
| Suspension | Air suspension |
| Shock Absorbers | Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 |
| Power Output | 608 hp |
| Torque | 870 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 111 kWh |
| Cruising Range | 483 km |
Market Potential and Reception
Considering the manual production of the base Celestiq, the Cadillac Sollei convertible has every chance of becoming a serial, or at least a small-scale production model. Cadillac has not yet made official announcements regarding potential production plans, indicating that they may currently be testing the market reaction from potential buyers.
Pros and Cons of the Cadillac Sollei Convertible
- Pros:
- Exceptional craftsmanship and design
- Utilization of sustainable materials
- High level of customization available
- Advanced technology integrated into the vehicle
- Cons:
- Limited availability may restrict buyer access
- High price point associated with luxury vehicles
Final Thoughts on the Cadillac Sollei Convertible
The Cadillac Sollei convertible is an exceptional melding of technology, luxury, and sustainability, making it one of the most anticipated vehicles in the luxury automotive market. As potential buyers await further news from Cadillac, one thing is clear—the Sollei is poised to create a significant impact in the world of automotive luxury.