It’s seeming more and more likely the Cadillac brand will be introduced to Australia, among other right-hand drive markets.
UPDATE, 03/10/2023 – A GMSV spokesperson has provided the following statement.
“GM participates in select right-hand-drive markets around the world. We have previously said that the modular Ultium platform and EV architecture offer greater flexibility in vehicle configurations. We do not have any product announcements to share at this time but stay tuned,” said a GMSV spokesperson.
Sources have told GM Authority the company is currently in the midst of a project that would see a number of Cadillac models offered in right-hand drive markets like Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Japan.
It’s understood this latest venture into the Australian market will be all-electric, which makes sense given the carmaker’s push towards electric vehicles (EVs).
Lyriq
This latest follows a few months after a trademark filing appeared on IP Australia for the Cadillac Lyriq last year, which has also been spied in right-hand drive.
Two more trademarks for the smaller Optiq and the larger Escalade IQ appeared on IP Australia a few months ago.
GM Speciality Vehicles has yet to confirm the introduction of any Cadillac models to Australia to join the Chevrolet Silverado and Corvette.
Senior members of the General Motor team in Australia told CarExpert earlier this year there’s “a lot of exciting stuff coming this year”.
Optiq
When it comes to Cadillac a spokesperson for General Motors has previously said to “stay tuned”.
Cadillac last officially sold vehicles in Australia in 1969, but 40 years later it came extremely close to returning to the local market with the second-generation CTS.
It officially announced the luxury sedan’s launch in 2007 and obtained local certification for its sale, with multiple dealers signing up to carry the brand alongside Hummer and Saab models.
Escalade IQ
GM even imported several dozen CTS sedans, only for them to be diverted as the company cancelled plans to sell the brand in January 2009 just weeks before they were due to go on sale.
“Across Australia and New Zealand, we will remain focused on putting the customers first by bringing winning products and a world-class ownership experience,” said recently appointed GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala.
“GM Australia and New Zealand has a strong foundation for future growth, deploying new technologies, and building new partnerships to surprise and delight our customers.”
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