Cadillac, long known as the big-engined, chrome-and-fin brand, is shading green this month as it launches a hybrid version of the Escalade, which will start at $71,685, including destination.
The sport-utility vehicle uses dual-mode hybrid technology and a cylinder shut-off feature to get 20 mpg in city driving and 21 mpg on the highway.
During slow driving or idling situations, the vehicle can run entirely on the electric motor, and unless the driver is heavy on the throttle it will launch from a stop under electric power is most situations, Cadillac says. The steering and air conditioning units are also electrically powered.
Options include four-wheel drive and power-actuated running boards.
The Escalade is the first vehicle in the greening of Cadillac, but more are on the way, says David Leone, GM's global vehicle chief engineer for luxury and small rear drive cars. He's not revealing specifics, but expect to see hybrid powertrains in Cadillac passenger cars as well.
"We do have some products in queue," he said.
Speaking on the sidelines of a Detroit-area event on Friday, Leone also said to expect more Cadillacs that run on E85 in the next two years. Currently, the Escalade in the only Cadillac vehicle to run on the ethanol fuel. Diesel powerplants, which are used in the CTS in Europe, are also under consideration for North American Cadillacs.
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