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First Bespoke Electric AMG Could Have Nearly 1,000 Horsepower

In 2013, Mercedes introduced the SLS AMG Electric Drive, its first venture into performance EVs. However, only nine cars were sold, making it rarer than the Audi R8 E-Tron, which had less than 100 examples. Fast forward to the present day, and AMG still doesn’t have a fully-fledged EV, with the EQE 53 and EQS 53 not considered bespoke AMGs.

But there have been hints of a dedicated AMG.EA platform, with Mercedes revealing a swoopy four-door concept last year. And now, spy shots of a prototype undergoing testing have emerged, indicating a 2025 release. Although Mercedes hasn’t disclosed the specifications, Autocar reports that the first AMG EV developed from the ground up will have astounding power.

Lamborghini Waiting To See If Synthetic Fuel Has A Future Before Retiring ICE Supercars

In 2014, Lamborghini made its first attempt at electrification with the Asterion hybrid concept. However, it wasn’t until this year that the company introduced its first production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) – the Revuelto, which is powered by a V12 engine. Lamborghini’s plan for the future includes a Huracan replacement and an updated version of the Urus, both with a combustion engine and a charging port. In 2028, they also plan to release the fully electric Lanzador, followed by a second-generation Urus as an electric vehicle (EV) in 2029.

As for the future of their combustion engine supercars, Lamborghini has not yet made a decision. Chairman and CEO, Stephan Winkelmann, stated in an interview with Autocar that they are waiting to see if synthetic fuels can save internal combustion engines (ICE). They believe it is worth waiting a few more years to determine whether e-fuels will be widely accepted by regulators and if production can meet the demand.

Stellantis Predicts Combustion Engine Cars Will Remain in Use Until 2050

As automakers move towards an all-electric future, Stellantis reminds us that internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will still be around for a while. Stellantis’ Senior VP Christian Mueller states that many of the company’s current combustion vehicles will continue to operate long after the electric vehicle (EV) revolution takes place.

In partnership with energy company Aramco, Stellantis has been working to develop and use synthetic e-fuels. By testing various engines with e-fuel samples provided by Aramco, Stellantis discovered that 24 engines used in Europe by different brands ran smoothly without any modifications. The e-fuel is produced by reacting carbon dioxide with hydrogen, and Stellantis claims it can reduce vehicle lifecycle carbon emissions by 70 percent.

Biofuel oil research in laboratory

Stellantis remains committed to its Dare Forward 2030 plan, which aims to have a fully electric lineup for Europe by 2030. However, the company recognizes that customers will not immediately transition from their gas-powered cars to electric models. Stellantis acknowledges that approximately 25 percent of their vehicles are still in use after 20 years, illustrating the considerable exposure time to e-fuels and the importance of supporting long-term combustion engine use alongside the development of e-fuels.

“I think 25 percent of our vehicles are still in use after 20 years,” said Mueller. “Hence, this kind of exposure time to e-fuels is considerable, very considerable.”

Bentley Uses Biofuel At Goodwood And Crewe Factory
Bentley Uses Biofuel At Goodwood And Crewe Factory

The use of synthetic fuels for current and future combustion vehicles is not a new idea. Porsche, for example, made a significant investment into a biofuel company in April 2022. Bentley also showcased their vehicles running on biofuel at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The potential benefits of e-fuel have led the European Union to revise its 2035 ban on new combustion-powered cars, allowing for an exemption if the cars are running on e-fuel.

Furthermore, not only Europe but also US states like California, Oregon, and New York are aiming to ban new internal combustion vehicles by 2035. However, there has been pushback against these plans, and there is still time for policies to change. As the development of e-fuel progresses, the next few years promise to be fascinating.

“We are exploring all solutions to reinforce our ambitious strategy of becoming a carbon net zero company by 2038,” said Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer Ned Curic. “Drop-in e-fuels can have a massive and almost immediate impact on reducing the CO2 emissions of the existing vehicle fleet, offering our customers an easy and economically efficient option to reduce their carbon footprint – one as simple as choosing a different fuel pump at the station, with no additional modification to their vehicles.”

Why The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Will Be A Runaway Success

Summary

  • The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is an all-electric SUV powerhouse, emphasizing sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
  • With its impressive 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque, it stands as one of the most potent electric SUVs on the market.
  • The Escalade IQ offers an estimated range of 450 miles per charge, addressing the limited driving range issue and potentially boosting Cadillac’s EV sales.

The Cadillac Escalade has always been synonymous with luxury and power, becoming a pop culture icon. Now, it is set to redefine its legacy with a shift towards sustainability and cutting-edge technology. The upcoming 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport represents a significant milestone in the evolution of luxury SUVs.

Breaking away from tradition, the Escalade IQ will debut as an all-electric powerhouse, symbolizing Cadillac’s commitment to eco-friendly innovation. Expected to be released in the summer of 2024, this SUV marks a new era for GM’s luxury EV lineup, following the success of the Lyriq compact crossover and the anticipation for the Celestiq.

The Escalade IQ aims to exceed expectations by combining performance with sustainability. Beneath its robust exterior, an electric heart beats, capable of generating an impressive 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque in Velocity Max mode, positioning it as one of the most powerful electric SUVs in the market. With an estimated range of 450 miles, the Escalade IQ Sport sets new standards in the EV landscape. This could potentially be the best era of Escalade for the brand.

The All-New 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Is Turning Heads

Already hailed as the “king” of electric SUVs, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ will revolutionize the perception of Cadillac as a whole. Its sleek design and wide frame capture attention, reimagining the iconic Escalade. This model has always been a cornerstone of the Cadillac brand since its rise to fame in the early-mid 2000s. However, Cadillac has shifted its vision to greener alternatives, resulting in the birth of the IQ Sport.

The 2025 model is expected to feature luxurious add-ons, along with an impressive 750 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque in ‘Velocity Max’ drive mode. The IQ has already taken the internet by storm with its appearance and rumored specifications, which are crucial for its highly anticipated release. Transforming the most popular model into an EV can either make or break a brand, and Cadillac is aiming for success.

2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Specs

Motor

Dual-motor setup

Horsepower

750 horses

Torque

785 pound-feet

Battery

24-module 200 kWh battery

Range

Est. 450 miles

Starting Price

$130,000

While these figures may change slightly as the release approaches, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ already boasts impressive estimates. It promises to redefine consumers’ and drivers’ perception of an electric SUV.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Offers Range For Days

White 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ
Cadillac

In addition to its impressive battery, torque, horsepower, and price, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ boasts an estimated range of 450 miles per charge. This puts it among the best in terms of range for an electric SUV. Many EVs currently on the market have ranges of 250-350 miles, which often deters potential buyers. Electric SUVs face challenges in extending driving range due to their size and weight, which place greater strain on the battery and deplete it faster.

By offering an extended range, the Escalade IQ addresses this issue and may lead to a significant increase in EV sales for Cadillac. People are not averse to driving electric; they simply do not want to spend their time constantly recharging due to limited range. Additionally, the 2025 Escalade IQ is rumored to be compatible with 800-volt charging, potentially allowing users to charge up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. This feature would be a valuable addition, as most individuals would not mind a brief stop between errands, work, school, or vacations.

The all-new Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport is expected to offer 450+ miles of range per full charge, making it one of the highest-range SUVs on the market and potentially boosting EV sales for Cadillac.

Going Green Might Be The Best Move For The Escalade

The release of the 2025 Escalade IQ Sport represents a significant moment in the brand’s history, garnering international attention. The Escalade was once perceived as a gas-guzzling vehicle exclusively for the rich and famous, and to some extent, that stereotype still holds. With a starting MSRP of around $130,000, this electric SUV remains unaffordable for many. Nevertheless, with an extended range, new body design, advanced interior, and cutting-edge technology, Cadillac is heading in the right direction with this electric SUV.

As part of GM’s larger green initiative, Cadillac, along with other brands, will transition towards a greener, cleaner fleet by 2030 and 2050. The company has committed to going fully electric by 2035, utilizing its ‘Ultium’ platform. While this transition may be slower for luxury brands like Cadillac, they recognize the importance of renewable driving. However, with the 450+ miles of range per charge and 750 horsepower offered by the Escalade IQ, customers will likely embrace the shift from traditional gasoline to electric vehicles within the next decade. GM is a powerful player in the US auto industry, ensuring that their plans for the future will be carefully executed.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Is Hitting The Roads Very Soon

2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport Exterior
Cadillac
  • The all-new Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport is set to release in the summer of 2024.
  • Mass availability is expected by the fall of the same year.

News of the SUV hitting the market in the summer of 2024 has sparked considerable excitement, with many eager customers already anticipating the release of the Cadillac Escalade IQ. Since leaks and rumors about this high-performance EV emerged, the automotive world has been buzzing with anticipation for this iconic redesign. As previously mentioned, the Escalade has been a major player in the SUV market and a staple for the Cadillac/GM brand, making any changes to its engine and motor significant.

Furthermore, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Sport is expected to be widely available by the fall of 2024 to meet the demand. Given the current shortages across the industry, there is a possibility of back-orders or limited supplies. However, Cadillac may offer pre-orders or reservations for this highly sought-after model. Interested buyers should stay updated on press releases and the official website. With 2025 already shaping up to be the year of the electric SUV, the Escalade IQ has the potential to elevate the Cadillac brand to new heights.

2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV First Drive Review: A Practical Missile

Mercedes-AMG is wasting no time in rolling out its revamped lineup as it moves towards full electrification by 2030. The latest addition to its electric vehicle (EV) family is the 2024 AMG EQE SUV. This SUV shares many similarities with its sedan counterpart, the AMG EQE Sedan, but offers extra practicality with increased interior and cargo space. While the shift towards electrification may result in a less thrilling driving experience, the practicality and comfort of the AMG EQE SUV compensate for it.

The design of the AMG EQE SUV closely resembles that of the sedan. It features the same aerodynamic-focused design language that is becoming a trademark for the brand’s EQ models. The front of the SUV is adorned with a Panamericana-style “grille” finished in gloss black, while the lower front fascia incorporates a subtle splitter and air inlets on each side. The SUV maintains the sleek and sporty look of the sedan, with short front and rear overhangs, a sloping roofline, and a tall shoulder line. The rear of the SUV is equipped with a roof spoiler, a small rear window, and a glossy black diffuser in the bumper.

Despite its muscular appearance, the AMG EQE SUV falls on the smaller end of the mid-size SUV segment. It offers 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 59.2 cubic feet of space with the seats folded down. Under the hood, the SUV is powered by two permanently excited synchronous motors, which deliver a combined output of 617 horsepower and 701 pound-feet of torque. With the Race Start feature engaged, the power output increases to 677 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque for a faster sprint to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds.

On the road, the AMG EQE SUV provides a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. It features adaptive air struts and AMG’s Active Ride Control to minimize body roll and maintain a smooth ride. The SUV offers multiple drive modes, including Slippery, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, which enhance power output, responsiveness, and suspension stiffness. However, the handling in corners may feel less controlled due to the SUV’s weight and body motions. The brake pedal of the EQE SUV varies depending on the amount of electrical regeneration, which can affect the smoothness of the braking experience.

Inside the cabin, the AMG EQE SUV offers a high level of quality and luxury. The centerpiece of the interior is the massive hyperscreen, which combines a digital instrument cluster, central infotainment display, and a passenger screen. The hyperscreen integrates the graphics and systems of all three screens seamlessly, creating a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. The SUV’s interior also features Nappa leather upholstery and minimal use of plastic materials, emphasizing the premium feel of the cabin.

While official range figures for the AMG EQE SUV have not been released, it shares the same 90.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack as the sedan, which has an EPA-estimated range of 225 miles. The SUV is expected to have a slightly lower range due to its heavier weight. It can charge at 170 kW, allowing for approximately 100 miles of range to be recuperated in just 15 minutes. The EQE SUV includes advanced charging features, such as preconditioning the battery based on navigation data to ensure the quickest charging time.

Pricing for the AMG EQE SUV has not been announced yet, but it is expected to start around $110,000, with fully-equipped models reaching closer to $120,000. While the EQE SUV may not deliver the same thrilling driving experience as some of its competitors, its blend of power, comfort, and practicality make it an enticing option for those seeking a high-performance luxury electric SUV.

2024 Kia Picanto Revealed with Significant Design Changes

In a market that is increasingly dominated by crossovers and SUVs, the A-segment in Europe is gradually shrinking. However, there are still a few brands, such as Toyota with its Aygo X, that are eager to offer tiny hatchbacks. Kia is also a player in this niche segment with its new Picanto. The flagship GT-Line trim, shown here, boasts substantial design changes on the outside while maintaining a familiar cabin.

In terms of the front fascia, the range-topping version of the Picanto showcases an intricate design. It’s evident that design cues from the Niro have influenced the new Picanto (known as the Morning in some markets like South Korea), giving the small car a distinctive appearance. The vertically stacked headlights meet in the middle with the help of an LED bar positioned at the upper section of the “tiger nose” grille. The rear of the car follows a similar design language, with upright taillights connected by a light bar on the tailgate.

How Cadillac Is Taking On Tesla As Well As Rolls-Royce

General Motors (GM) is committed to revolutionizing all of its brands towards electric vehicles (EVs). By 2030, GM plans to make Cadillac an all-exclusive EV brand. Cadillac aims to compete head-to-head with Tesla, the EV market leader, and wants to change the game. To target different segments, Cadillac will release the Lyriq to compete with the Tesla Model Y and the Celestiq to compete with the Rolls-Royce Spectre. This bold move by Cadillac will certainly catch the attention of other giants in the industry such as Ford, Nissan, Tesla, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Rolls-Royce Spectre Is Worth Over $400,000

Cadillac Has The Might To Take On Both Tesla And Rolls-Royce

Red Color Cadillac Lyriq
Cadillac 
Front three quarter shot of Cadillac Lyriq parked outside of a buidling

The Lyriq is Cadillac’s first electric vehicle that will compete with the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Polestar 3. This SUV features an all-wheel-drive version with a range of 307 miles, 500 horsepower, and 450 pound-feet of torque. The Lyriq offers a 33-inch diagonal screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The base model starts at $58,000 and the top-of-the-line model costs over $70,000.

Cadillac Lyriq Sport Specs

Electric Motor

Dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup

Horsepower

500 horses

Range

450 pound-feet

Electric Range

307 miles

Price

$74,590

The Celestiq is a luxurious sedan that will rival brands like Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Mercedes. This sedan offers 600 horsepower, a 300-mile range, and can go from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.8 seconds. The Celestiq is expected to cost around $300,000.

Cadillac Celestiq Specs

Electric Motor

Dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup

Horsepower

600 horses

Range

640 pound-feet

Electric Range

300 miles (est.)

Price

$300,000

Cadillac also has plans for the Escalade IQ, a three-row electric SUV expected to start at over $100,000.

Related: 15 Solid Alternatives To The Tesla Model Y

The Cutting-Edge Ultium Platform: The Secret Ingredient To Potential Success

Ultium platform
General Motors
Wide shot of three battery skateboards built using the Ultium platform

The Ultium platform, developed in collaboration between General Motors and LG, is the key to Cadillac’s potential success. The platform’s design allows for efficient packaging of batteries, maximizing space and power. It also incorporates advanced chemistry that reduces cobalt usage by 70 percent and extends battery life. With the Ultium platform, Cadillac’s vehicles can easily achieve the industry-standard 300-mile range.

Related: Why The Cadillac Lyriq Is The Best Electric SUV

GM’s Undivided Attention To Make Cadillac An Exclusive EV Brand

An interior shot of the dash of the 2024 Cadillac Celestiq
Cadillac
2024 Cadillac Celestiq interior shot

GM is fully committed to making Cadillac an exclusive EV brand. The company has divested from money-losing projects like its European brands, Opel and Vauxhall, to focus on investing in the future of its own brands, especially electric vehicles. GM plans to invest over $81 million in the Celestiq project alone, demonstrating its seriousness about Cadillac’s electrification. Cadillac aims to have a fully electric lineup by 2030, but it will have to convince current Escalade owners to upgrade to its electric version. In addition to electrification, Cadillac has set a goal to run its operations in the United States on 100 percent renewable energy by 2025, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.

Cadillac Celestiq
Cadillac
A rear 3/4 view of Cadillac Celestiq on a plateau overlooking mountains in the background

Only time will tell if Cadillac can successfully challenge automotive giants like Tesla and Rolls-Royce. However, their transition to electric vehicles is a necessary step in the industry, and Cadillac seems to be moving in the right direction. One potential challenge for Cadillac could be the production capacity of the Ultium platform’s batteries. Overcoming this challenge and ensuring a sufficient supply of batteries will be crucial for the success of Cadillac’s EV lineup and to compete with Tesla and other automakers.