There are very few electric convertibles on the market today. Just the Fiat 500C and we are eagerly awaiting the MG Cyberster. It was in the United States where a step in this direction was taken with the Cadillac Sollei ConceptIt is still a prototype, fully electric and convertible, with which the company wants to show a “vision of the future that explores the possibilities of custom vehicle design.”
It was presented at Cadillac House in Vanderbilt, within the campus of the GM Global Technical Center in Warren (Michigan, USA) and represents the first step towards the brand’s return to the large convertible segment, absent for 15 years –when it stopped manufacturing the XLR–, but in which it shone with models such as the Cadillac El Dorado.
The Cadillac Sollei Concept is named after the words “sun” (Sol) and “leisure” (Lei) and its design is similar to the Celestiq – a prototype presented in 2012 – to the point that the front end is very similar, as is the passenger compartment. Both have been built on the Ultium platform.
Its design was inspired by the classic Cadillac convertibles of the 1950s, with a contemporary touch. They chose the color Manila Cream for the bodywork, which pays homage to historic models of the brand and 23-inch aluminium wheels. Its doors are very long, 1.68 metres (without conventional handles) and a central line runs along the side, connecting the front headlights and the rear lights, which extend across the rear in a single element.
The entire cabin (four seats) is surrounded by aluminum frame, with an interior in vibrant yellow Sola Yellow Iridescentwith an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication. Materials such as wood and Nappa leather have been used. There are details such as a drinks cooler, a 55-inch screen or a set of specially designed crystal glasses.
It is the brand’s first concept car to feature bio-based materials, in floor mats and door pockets. Developed in conjunction with MycoWorks, they are grown from mycelium (the renewable root structure of mushrooms). Included is a brushed metal, leather-wrapped case with 3D-printed birds, a journal with hand-painted bird illustrations, and a bespoke pen and pencil case to match the interior.
The metallic finishes (which are real metal) have been tinted with a finish called Aurora, reminiscent of the northern and southern lights. The windshield frame and grille have been made of solid aluminum. Will it go into production? It will depend on public opinion, but surely some of these options will be added to the brand’s customization catalog, in which customers can vary materials and colors according to their tastes and needs.
