Electric vehicle range is one of the most important issues for buyers considering all electric vehicles including the new Cadillac Lyriq. Not only is the estimated driving range with an EV virtually always less than a comparable gas-powered model but the estimates can be unreliable. That's because the range numbers are based on ideal weather conditions which are rarely the case, especially in Michigan, and more extreme temperatures can reduce your driving range.
Let’s discuss the approximate driving range limitations and variations in the Cadillac Lyriq so you can decide whether an EV makes sense for you or whether you should explore the possibilities in one of our more proven gas- powered luxury Cadillac models. Above all, we want to be sure you're happy with your Cadillac purchase regardless of the powertrain you select here at Shaheen Cadillac in Lansing, MI
Cadillac Lyriq driving range estimates
The Cadillac Lyriq comes with a battery that provides 102 kilowatts of capacity and gives you an estimated driving range of 312 miles with a full charge in the single motor version. By comparison, the driving range for a comparable gas-powered Cadillac model like the XT5 SUV is up to 506 miles on a full tank of gas. With the more extreme weather conditions we experience here in Michigan, an EV can lose 17% of its range when temperatures reach 95°. What’s more, charging your EV in extreme heat can shorten the battery's life.
What technology is behind the Cadillac Lyriq’s driving range?
By introducing the new Lyriq, General Motors is introducing a new line of EV battery technology called Ultium. That allows GM to produce batteries that range in size from 50 kilowatts up to 200 kilowatts. The battery in the Lyriq has 102 kilowatts of capacity which means it only has about half as much electric power as the Ultium system is capable of delivering. In a real life test, Car and Driver checked the Cadillac Lyriq and found that it could only get about 220 miles of range with all-wheel drive and cold weather can cause the range to be even less.
Other factors that can reduce the Cadillac Lyriq’s driving range
Drivers who travel above the speed limit can cause the Cadillac Lyriq to have reduced driving range and, of course, most Michigan drivers go above the speed limit. Another factor that can reduce the Lyriq’s driving range is operating the air conditioning system. Here in Michigan, of course, it's simply not a realistic option for a Cadillac owner to operate a luxury car like the Lyriq without air conditioning, especially in our extreme summer heat. These are some of the key reasons the Cadillac Lyriq can lose 20 to 40 miles of range. That’s why it's important to have a realistic idea of what the Lyriq – or any EV – can actually give you in terms of driving range.
What are the charging times for the Cadillac Lyriq?
If you invest the money to install a 220-volt outlet in your garage, you can bring the new Cadillac Lyriq up to a full charge in somewhere between 7 and 14 hours depending on the power supply. It's possible to do a faster charge but it’s been reported that fast charging frequently causes the battery to produce more heat. Higher heat levels can shorten a battery’s life by speeding up cell deterioration over time. In addition, public fast charging stations can be difficult to find and often don't work properly so it's better to charge a Cadillac Lyriq at home overnight.
We want to help you find the right new Cadillac
At Shaheen Cadillac, we’re committed to giving you an outstanding Cadillac ownership experience and we want to be as realistic as possible about driving range and other factors that can affect your long-term satisfaction. EVs like the Cadillac Lyriq do have advantages like faster acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. We want you to understand all the pros and cons of buying any new Cadillac whether it's the Lyriq or one of our reliable gas-powered luxury Cadillac SUVs. We'll be happy to talk about your Cadillac options any time at Shaheen Cadillac in Lansing, MI.
