Cadillac’s Elevated Velocity Concept previews a V-Series-inspired electric crossover with gullwing doors, 24-inch wheels and on-road/off-grid tech modes.
Cadillac pulled the cover off a new design study at Monterey Car Week on Thursday, introducing the all-electric Elevated Velocity Concept as a performance-oriented crossover that nods to the brand’s V-Series heritage while previewing future styling cues.
Positioned alongside the Lyriq-V and Optiq-V in Cadillac’s performance-EV family, the Elevated Velocity is pitched as a dual-purpose machine “designed to exhilarate on-road and off-grid alike,” the company said. The name reflects that split brief: “Elevated” for its luxury cabin and ride height, “Velocity” for its high-performance intent in desert-grade conditions.
The concept adopts an aero-efficient silhouette finished in Vapor Blue and rides on 24-inch wheels. Access is via gullwing doors that open automatically as part of a “Welcome Mode” sequence that also bathes the 2+2 cabin in soft white ambient light and triggers entry animations. Inside, red upholstery underscores the vehicle’s sport focus, while a minimalist dash and slim roof pillars emphasize forward visibility.
Cadillac previewed a suite of tech-driven drive modes that blend theatrics with function. “Elevate Mode” engages hands-free driving, retracting the steering wheel and pedals, shifting the ambient lighting to red, and activating seatback-mounted infrared lighting that the company says is intended to “promote optimal performance” for passengers. Door-panel backlighting can synchronize with occupants’ breathing patterns for relaxation. “Velocity Mode” returns manual control, switches the lighting to cool white for focus, and brings up an augmented-reality head-up display with navigation overlays.
For harsher environments, specialized settings include “Sand Vision,” which is designed to enhance visibility in sandstorms, and an “elements-defy mode” that uses a “dust-phobic vibration” feature to help keep surfaces clean. Ground clearance and approach angles were not detailed, but the lifted stance and short overhangs suggest off-pavement capability beyond typical luxury crossovers.
Cadillac did not release powertrain specifications, range estimates or charging details, framing Elevated Velocity primarily as a styling and technology demonstrator. Likewise, the brand did not discuss production timing or pricing, consistent with recent GM show vehicles that serve as design beacons rather than near-term market entries.
The concept arrives as luxury automakers court buyers seeking EV performance with SUV practicality. By pairing V-Series visual cues with adventure-leaning hardware and immersive cabin tech, Cadillac is signaling that future performance EVs may expand beyond track-day tropes to include off-grid aspirations.
The Elevated Velocity Concept will be displayed at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, during Monterey Car Week.
