Luxury, Sophistication & Economy: 2016 Cadillac ELR extended range coupe
The Cadillac ELR coupe is the production version of Cadillac’s Converj, a concept vehicle revealed at the North American International Auto Show in 2009. The Cadillac ELR luxury coupe blends dramatic design and industry-leading extended-range technology to deliver a driving experience that is sporty and environmentally friendly.
Updates and enhancements for 2016 include: an updated grille and Cadillac crest add to the sleek and aerodynamic exterior design of the vehicle; a revised electric drive system features an increase in horsepower and torque by more than 25 percent for improved acceleration time; more responsive brakes; a retuned chassis and steering for better handling. A new Performance Package available on the ELR also improves handling and braking with 20-inch summer-only performance tires on new sport wheels, front Brembo four-piston brake calipers, specific calibrations for the continuous damping control and electric power steering systems and a sport steering wheel with a thicker rim.
All 2016 ELRs contain both battery control software and drive system hardware upgrades that improve power and acceleration, with EV range growing on the base model. Additionally, the 2016 ELR has a modified Sport mode that enables the propulsion system to combine engine and electric motor power to take the ELR from 0-60 in 6.4 seconds.
The ELR is equipped with an electric propulsion system made up of a T-shaped lithium-ion battery, an electric drive unit, and a 1.4L four-cylinder gasoline engine-generator. It will use electricity as its primary power source to drive the car without using gasoline or producing tailpipe emissions. When the battery’s energy is low, the ELR seamlessly switches to a gasoline-powered electric generator to allow hundreds of additional driving miles.
Industry-leading Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology provides full driving range exceeding 340 miles, combining pure electric driving and an efficient, range-extending generator. The proven EREV technology is uniquely tuned for Cadillac in the ELR. Most daily commutes will require zero gasoline with zero emissions. Longer trips are free from electric-vehicle range anxiety because EREV technology enables the same long-distance freedom as a conventional car.
A solid, stable foundation underpins the ELR, featuring a body-frame-integral structure with main underbody rails running continuously from front to rear. Advanced, high-strength steels add strength and conserve weight. Additional contributors to the ELR’s driving experience include: HiPer Strut front suspension featuring lightweight forged aluminum components for reduced weight and more nimble, responsive action; dual-pinion, rack-mounted electric power steering system with premium ZF steering gear designed to provide excellent feedback while helping to save fuel; a semi-independent rear compound-crank suspension with Watts link that incorporates weight-optimized trailing arms to absorb lateral forces, allowing the suspension to be tuned to handle vertical, forward and rearward motions; and hydraulic ride bushings in the front and rear suspensions.
Driving confidence is enhanced by advanced suspension and damping systems, including Continuous Damping Control – which adjusts damping every two milliseconds – to maintain optimal vehicle ride control over varying road surfaces and profiles.
Inside the passenger cabin, luxury appointments, great proportions and a flowing, ergonomic cockpit incorporating the latest technology interface were top priorities for the ELR interior design team. A continuous feature line from the instrument panel through the doors to the back glass creates a complete and harmonious cockpit environment.
Connectivity through the Cadillac CUE system reaches new heights with phone integration technology through Apple CarPlay, as well as OnStar 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot, which technology provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected wherever and whenever they like. The hotspot is on whenever the vehicle is on and comes with a three-month/three gigabyte data trial.
ELR’s 2+2 layout features a blend of carefully selected materials, including available carbon fiber and ultra-premium Opus semi-aniline leather seating. Additional features include: eight-inch configurable instrument and driver information displays, offering four configurations ranging from elegantly simple to technologically detailed information; a power-assist covered storage/cup holder in the center console; fold-down rear seatbacks to accommodate longer items such as skis and golf clubs; and choreographed LED-powered accent lighting.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 106.1; overall length: 186.0; width: 72.7; height: 55.9
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: lithium-ion rechargeable battery system – 17.1 kWh and 1.4L four-cylinder gasoline-powered electric generator – 63 kWh at 4,800 rpm.
Transmission: front-drive Voltec electric drive motor – 160-174 kW
EPA Fuel Economy: 32 mpg (gasoline/electric); 85 MPGe (EV mode)
Cargo capacity: 10.5 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, StabiliTrak vehicle stability system, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, CUE (Cadillac User Experience) multi-media system, navigation system, Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, OnStar communications system, rollover mitigation sensors, and tire pressure monitoring system.
Optional safety features include: Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and full-speed-range adaptive cruise control.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile
Hybrid Battery: 8-year/100,000 mile
Corrosion: 4-year/50,000 mile
Roadside Assistance: 6-year/70,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Cadillac ELR extended range coupe starts from $65,000. Destination charges add $995.
