Cadillac’s next-generation Escalade could offer electric power for the first time, and, somehow, the massive and heavy SUV might even be able to net 400 miles (643 km) of battery range.
According to anonymous inside sources speaking to the Cadillac Society, the fifth-generation Cadillac Escalade will offer more than just the standard 6.2-litre V8 gasoline powertrain—there will also be a high-performance version that uses Cadillac’s 4.2-litre twin-turbo “Blackwing” motor.
Both will allegedly use a 10-speed automatic transmission, and be available in either two- or four-wheel-drive. But rumours are for buyers wanting to go green, we’re looking at a plug-in hybrid a la the CT6 PHEV; as well as a fully electric model with a surprising amount of range.
It isn’t that surprising, however, because when you have a truck that’s already heavy and huge, you don’t have to worry about adding a bunch of battery weight—the chassis can already handle it. The next-generation Escalade will debut in 2021, but the electric option won’t arrive right when the vehicle debuts. It will likely come later in the life cycle of the truck, the sources say.
When it does debut, however, it will give the Tesla Model X a run for its money, as currently the top model of that vehicle only gets 325 miles to the charge. Of course, that number might be upgraded by the time the Escalade EV is released.
The luxury-minded Escalade will also see NVH (noise/vibration/harness) levels drop thanks to the electric powertrain. And if you flick on the latest version of Cadillac Super Cruise while you’re behind the wheel, it might be hard to shake the feeling you’re sitting in your living room at home.
