Cadillac’s best-selling SUV gets PHEV power, clever Chinese assisted driving tech

ADME commentary

The ADME angle

Cadillac's launch of a PHEV SUV will put pressure on Australian dealers to respond with their own electrified offerings, particularly in the luxury segment.

The inclusion of assisted driving technology from Momenta is a clear indication that Chinese tech companies are becoming major players in the automotive industry, and dealers should be prepared to educate customers on these new features.

What it means for the order bank

Dealers who have been slow to adapt to the shift towards electrification will be at a disadvantage, as customers increasingly expect to see a range of hybrid and electric options on the showroom floor.

The fact that Cadillac is belatedly launching a PHEV suggests that the brand is playing catch-up, and dealers should be prepared for a potential influx of customers looking for more established electrified brands.

Competitor response

Other luxury brands, such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW, have already established themselves in the electrified market, and dealers should be prepared to compare and contrast the features and benefits of these different models.

Dealers who can effectively communicate the value proposition of their electrified offerings will be well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for these vehicles.

Taking action

This week, dealers should review their current inventory and ordering processes to ensure they are well-stocked with electrified models, and consider hosting events or workshops to educate customers on the benefits of these vehicles.