Summary
- Cadillac and Mercedes are set to offer large battery-powered SUVs at high prices
- Cadillac announced the 2026 Vistiq SUV with 300 miles of range and starting price of $78,790
- The Vistiq production will begin early next year in Tennessee and offer bi-directional charging
- Mercedes is developing a new full-sized electric SUV based on the AMG.EA platform
- The new SUV from Mercedes will prioritize EV performance and feature innovative technology
Article
Large SUVs continue to be popular, despite their size, inefficiency, and cost. Many buyers are looking for an electric option to replace their large gas-guzzlers, leading Cadillac and Mercedes to introduce battery-powered SUVs for those willing to pay the price. The Cadillac Vistiq Electric SUV, set to be released in 2026, offers a three-row design with a 300-mile range and a starting price of $78,790. The vehicle will be produced at GM’s factory in Tennessee and feature design elements from the Lyriq and Celestiq models. The Vistiq will also include bi-directional charging, allowing for vehicle-to-home operation in case of blackouts.
The Vistiq will come with a dual-motor system and a 102 kWh battery, providing ample acceleration and range. It will also feature Android-powered infotainment system, offering Google Maps navigation and access to Google Play Store apps. Cadillac will offer three trims initially — Luxury, Sport, and Premium Luxury — with a Platinum trim planned for 2025. The impact of the new administration’s policies on EV incentives and production credits remains unknown, which could influence the cost of batteries for automakers like GM.
Mercedes is also joining the trend with a new full-sized electric SUV based on the AMG.EA platform, designed for performance models and developed as the first SUV from AMG. The new SUV, with a working title of “Born in Affalterbach,” will be a high-performance off-roader combining EV technology with classic AMG attributes like emotion and performance. The AMG.EA platform aims to introduce innovative technologies, such as axial-flow engine technology, and a high-performance high-voltage battery.
Details about the AMG.EA platform are still scarce, but Mercedes has emphasized its pioneering role in technological advancements. The development of the platform is based on the Vision EQXX concept vehicle, which showcased impressive range capabilities by covering 1,008 kilometers on a single battery charge. Mercedes-Benz is testing the vision EQXX extensively to ensure performance and efficiency standards are met. The price range for the new AMG Electric SUV from Mercedes is expected to be high, catering to luxury vehicle buyers.
Overall, the shift towards electric SUVs by manufacturers like Cadillac and Mercedes reflects the growing demand for larger electric vehicles as buyers seek more sustainable alternatives to traditional gas-guzzling SUVs. With innovative features like bi-directional charging and advanced technological platforms, these electric SUVs aim to provide a luxurious and efficient driving experience for those willing to invest in the future of sustainable transportation. The success of these high-end electric SUVs will depend on factors like government incentives, battery costs, and consumer preferences in the evolving market for electric vehicles.
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