This is the all-electric Cadillac Lyriq EV SUV. If you’re already sold on the looks then don’t worry, it’s just for looks. The Lyriq all-electric SUV is a show car, ergo it’s a concept. When it finally becomes retail-ready expect the Lyriq’s simple, modern lines to be toned down. One reason is that an easy to manufacture vehicle will offer better profitability. However, Cadillac intends to sell the Lyriq at below $60,000. If Cadillac is able to meet this price promise then the Lyric will be eligible for EV state incentives in New York and California.

The Lyriq will be powered by Cadillac’s 100 kWh Ultium battery, a single charge offers a theoretical range of 300 miles. The Ultium battery is one of the key drivers in reducing the cost of the Lyriq. The Ultium battery will use less rare-earth materials as opposed to current lithium-ion batteries. This in-and-of-itself will reduce costs compared to more expensive Lithium-ion batteries.

However, questions have been raised as to whether the so-called Ultium Battery is nothing more than marketing hype. General Motors have been promising a push into the EV market since 2017, all they have to show thus far is the Chevy Bolt EV. GM is certain Ultium batteries will bring price parity between EVs and ICE cars.

Nevertheless, the Cadillac Lyriq has some stiff competition to face such as the Mercedes EQC, Audi E-Tron and the Tesla Model X. But if the Lyriq does retail for below $60,000 it will be competitively priced, but will it be compelling enough for people to buy? Will it even be ready on time? that is the Ultium question.