G. David Felt

Drawing from every era and element of its rich heritage, Cadillac has delivered the most advanced, most luxurious and most important vehicles they might ever produce. Welcome to the Cadillac CELESTIQ, a handcrafted, all-electric, ultra-luxury flagship showing the world the "Standard of the World" is back for Cadillacs electric future. The CELESTIQ is built on legacy, cutting-edge technology integrated into a design with personalized luxury rooted in Cadillac's rich history of building handcrafted coached like the iconic 1933 V16 Aerodynamic Coupe and the 1957 Eldorado Brougham. Each CELESTIQ is a personally commissioned luxury sedan, no two will be alike. The client will work directly with their selected dealer and the Cadillac Design team to realize their unique vision for the car. Unprecedented levels of personalization tailored to reflect each owner's tastes. Per Global Vice President of Cadillac Rory Harvey, “CELESTIQ is like no Cadillac before it and the client experience is equally exceptional,” “Each vehicle is a unique expression of its owner, leveraging leading-edge technologies that make the driving experience personal and rewarding.” “With an extremely low volume of hand-built vehicles to be offered globally each year and an exclusive declaration process, CELESTIQ will truly be a custom-commissioned one-of-one,” “Each client will experience a personalized journey to make their vehicle exactly the way they desire.” Exhilarating performance and range come from the foundation of the revolutionary Ultium Platform that makes up the CELESTIQ. A dedicated 111-kWh battery pack, two-motor, all-wheel-drive propulsion system to offer an estimated 600 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque with an estimated driving range of 300 miles on a full charge. Cadillac CELESTIQ will deliver one of the quickest 0-60mph accelerations in the segment of 3.8 seconds. This is accomplished by a unique among the Ultium-based EVs with a 11.59:1 front ratio and 11:63:1 rear gear ratio which were specially calibrated to optimize range and performance. The Ultium Platform also serves as a structural element of the vehicle, contributing to its overall strength and feeling of solidity, in addition to its performance. The CELESTIQ’s battery cells are mounted horizontally, enabling the vehicle’s long, low and lean proportions, while the low mounting position of the pack drops the vehicle’s center of gravity, enhancing handling and ride comfort, as well as maximizing interior spaciousness. Regen on Demand Braking2 is standard and helps maximize driving range by converting the kinetic energy of the vehicle’s forward momentum into electricity that’s stored in the battery pack. It also includes One-Pedal Driving3, which can slow the vehicle to a complete stop using only the accelerator pedal, for very fine vehicle control. Cadillac has had an exceptional reputation for isolated precision, meaning CELESTIQ offers the ultimate in ride refinement without sacrifices, Best of Both Worlds in the "Standard of the World". Tony Roma, CELESTIQ chief engineer stated the following: “CELESTIQ offers responsiveness and athleticism typically associated with smaller performance vehicles,” “We have incorporated Cadillac’s expertise developing advanced chassis and suspension systems into an entirely new experience for the client.” CELESTIQ's Isolated Precision includes the following: Adaptive Air Suspension: CELESTIQ makes use of an air suspension system, rather than the coiled springs used in a traditional suspension system. Compared to traditional suspension systems, air suspension offers a softer, more isolated ride for greater ride quality. Active Rear Steering: CELESTIQ will offer up to 3.5 degrees of out-of-phase rear steering, in which the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels for greater maneuverability at low speeds. At higher speeds, the rear wheels will turn in-phase with the front wheels. Magnetic Ride Control 4.0: A signature Cadillac engineering innovation will find a new home in CELESTIQ. Originally developed for the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, the system is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology, which allows for greater responsiveness and enhanced isolation from road imperfections. Advanced AWD: CELESTIQ offers a two-motor electric drive unit. These motors work with torque optimizer modules that analyze torque requirements for given vehicle inputs. These modules turn the front or rear motors on and off as required to provide optimal torque to enhance ride quality and electric driving range. Active Roll Control: The Cadillac-first Active Roll Control feature is a significant contributor to the vehicle’s nimble handling. It employs stabilizer bars embedded at the front and rear of the chassis to mitigate the rolling force exerted on the vehicle during turns and other maneuvers, enhancing the feeling of stability, control and occupant comfort. Active Rear Spoiler: The CELESTIQ Active Rear Spoiler deploys at lower speeds to help improve aerodynamic efficiency and further raises at higher speeds to help keep the vehicle balanced. Ride-focused tires: CELESTIQ will feature available 23-inch forged aluminum wheels with 23-inch summer-only Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires. This combination will offer strong rolling resistance performance and precision steering. Designed specifically for Cadillac, the tread pattern, self-sealing technology and foam inserts enable a quiet tire for greater ride isolation. Electric Power Steering: CELESTIQ features a variable ratio front electric power steering system, similar to that found on the Cadillac Blackwings but calibrated specifically for CELESTIQ, that works in coordination with active rear steering to automatically adjust to the ideal steering ratio depending on vehicle speed resulting in an engaging and intuitive driving experience. 5-link front and rear suspension: CELESTIQ’s 5-link front and rear suspension provides exceptional performance tailored specifically for the high torque output of an electric vehicle motor. The suspension isolators are precisely tuned to minimize cabin disturbances yet allow proper road feel and handling response, delivering on Cadillac’s promise of isolated precision. Charging is a seamless experience for the clients, be it at home or on the road, Cadillac is dedicated to making this a quick experience. CELESTIQ is equipped with a 200 kW DC fast charging system capable of adding 78 miles of range in 10 minutes via a public DC fast charger. Client's can find EV charging via a simplified designed Ultium Charge 360 app on their smartphone showing charge points all over the U.S. and Canada through the current myCadillac Mobile app. This app will allow the client's to not only find nearby charging stations, but see real time charger availability, plane routes, start charging sessions and more. The Ultium platform integrates the propulsions battery pack as a structural element of the auto, contributing to the overall strength, durability, low center of gravity and performance. The CELESTIQ will be the first of the EVs to maximize Mega Castings where each mega cast will replace 30 to 40 components from a traditional stamping process. These benefits give more efficient use of interior and exterior space, simplicity and improved structural rigidity leading to superior isolation of the ultimate quiet ride. Cadillac-CELESTIQ-Walkaround.mp4 On top of the MEGA CASTINGs, you will find 115 3D printed parts allowing for the ultimate in custom manufacturing for each client. The steering wheel center is the largest metal part GM has printed in production, combining the show surface and the structural B-side of the part, while the seat belt adjustable guide loop is GM’s first safety-related 3D printed part. Other 3D printed parts include window switches, grab handles, console decor and structural pieces under the vehicle’s surface. Cadillac FLEX fabrication, what is this? Each CELESTIQ vehicle will feature over 300 fabricated pieces throughout the body structure, chassis, interior and electrical components. This process utilizes metal sheets that can be folded and manipulated into the unique shapes required for the CELESTIQ design, a process that GM says is more akin to metallic origami than traditional stamping and brings back the customized metal work that Cadillac was well known for in the early 1900's. CELESTIQ additional details: A long dash-to-axle ratio lends to CELESTIQ’s classic proportions that are evocative of performance vehicles. Precision advanced aluminum castings combined with advanced engineering and manufacturing allow CELESTIQ to house large 23-inch wheels. The use of advanced casting techniques allowed CELESTIQ engineers to efficiently package all technologies – never compromising on design or client comfort. Inside, the low, flat floor allows every seat to have equal levels of comfort – each with a full range of comfort adjustability. The Fixed Smart Glass Roof eliminates the need for a sunshade or headliner, maximizing headroom. The CELESTIQ architecture incorporates a unique 48-volt electrical system that's driven by a digital electrical architecture of its own, supporting the vehicles advanced feature technologies. Clients will find more than 30 virtual controls accommodating the vehicles high levels of seat and climate customization without the need for traditional buttons and switches. Cadillac's transformation to be all electric by 2030 is what has manifested in the CELESTIQ and the styling of the LYRIQ in what is the new "Art of Travel" design philosophy. Art of Travel considers the entire encounter with the vehicle, from its visual presence to the rich feel of its components, and the choregraphed experiences in which curated "sense of occasion" features transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Cadillac says this tailored approach to the CELESTIQ, LYRIQ and all Cadillac EVs will give every owner their own unique experience as their car makes common elements feel distinctly personal. Erin Crossley, design director of CELESTIQ had this to say: “CELESTIQ is the purest expression of Cadillac’s legacy of design excellence,” “It revives the spirit of handcrafted coaches in a vehicle that is both an artistic tour de force and a peerless sensory experience.” “The result is an automobile that redefines luxury through the experiences it offers its driver and passengers.” “Everyone poured their passions into CELESTIQ,” said Crossley. Cadillac - Embracing the Avant-Garde The striking, bold, fastback profile silhouette of the CELESTIQ is what challenging the ultra-luxury space is all about. The spirit of futurism and the avant-garde begins with the boldness of the grill, vertical lighting, but with a sense of modernity unlike anything else in its segment. Taki Karras, exterior design manager for CELESTIQ said the following: “Every element and every surface was pushed to the next level with meticulous detailing, delivering a visionary design that is unique and breathtaking.” “It’s a progressive vision of Cadillac exterior design language that breaks from the norm of the ultra-luxury paradigms.” Every metal surface seen on the exterior of the vehicle is real metal — including an aluminum grille, brushed aluminum bodyside, aluminum eTrunk™ lining, rocker, taillamp and headlamp trim, and brushed metal liftgate body openings. The aluminum grille and Goddess in the fender is milled into cast aluminum, then the piece is machine-polished, brushed and tinted. The Goddess trim also features a unique crystal element to house premium LED lighting elements. CELESTIQ’s full exterior embodies thoughtful details for an ultra-luxury experience. CELESTIQ innovative technologies include the following: Fixed Smart Glass Roof: In an industry-first feature, Suspended Particle Device Technology, multi-color ambient lighting, and lighting choreography create a unique interplay between the exterior and the amount of light allowed into the cabin through the four-zone Fixed Smart Glass Roof. Automated Illuminated Charging Indicators: The charge port is surrounded by a ring of light that responds when the CELESTIQ is plugged in for charging. Visual cues indicate the state of charge, including a lit Goddess emblem above the charge port — a visual representation of how electrification is the soul of CELESTIQ and Cadillac. Additionally, the vehicle’s vertical lighting signatures in the headlamps and taillamps offer charging status indicators, indicating 10% charging increments. Materials: Carbon fiber comprises several areas of the exterior, this material choice enables the designers to create distinctive forms not possible with traditional metal body panels. The visible metallic surfaces are authentic metal, including the aluminum grille, header, rocker, taillamp and headlamp trim, brushed aluminum bodyside trim, aluminum eTrunk™ lining, and brushed metal liftgate body openings. 3D Printing: The use of 3D printing and additive manufacturing is cutting-edge technology that produces several important CELESTIQ design elements, such as the steering wheel décor, which would be impossible to create with typical metal castings and CNC milling. Exterior Lighting: Every single point of light in a CELESTIQ lighting animation is its own light source rather than the banks of lights used in many other vehicles. These individual LEDs — more than 1,600 per vehicle (depending on the sales market) — create a richer, deeper lighting experience. The choreography is accented by the Cadillac-first Digital Micromirror Device headlamps with 1.3 million pixels per side. Lighting Choreography: The exterior lighting choreography begins when the client is approximately 15 feet away from the CELESTIQ and it detects the client’s key fob. The vehicle welcomes the client by illuminating the front Cadillac Crest, before light cascades from the middle of the black crystal shield grille to the headlamps, creating the impression the vehicle is powering up and preparing for the journey. Power Open and Close Doors: There are no exterior door handles, for a cleaner, more aerodynamic appearance. Instead, the client can power open and close the doors easily with the press of a button. Wheel Choices: Carefully proportioned to fit its frame and proportions, the 23-inch wheels offered on CELESTIQ are available in almost countless color choices. All are matched with Michelin tires in which the sidewall is adorned with the Cadillac Precision pattern to inform the client that the tire was designed specifically for CELESTIQ. The CELESTIQ interior design is a new standard of ultra-luxury and where Cadillac's Art of Travel design philosophy if fully realized. Craftsmanship is evident the moment a client enters the cabin, the sensory experience is ignited through the use of authentic worlds best materials and indulgent details. Clients will find hand-wrapped materials, immersive interior lighting and embellishments that embody Cadillac's vision for exclusivity and customization. Tristan Murphy, interior design manager has this to say: “With CELESTIQ, we’ve been able to push classic American luxury into a new modern space,” “Executed with exceptional craftmanship, there is a staggering variety of colors, trims and genuine materials that ensure no two vehicles will ever be alike.” “The interior is defined by long uninterrupted surfaces and theme lines; the sense of movement is all around you. With such a clean design, it allowed the details to shine, emphasizing precision in even the smallest of areas, truly highlighting a sense of space and scale,” The interior of the CELESTIQ features 450 distinct LEDs for an immersive sensory experience. Clients can personalize their color selections for each interior lighting zone or let the whole CELESTIQ curate lighting combinations to harmonize the cabin across the whole color spectrum. Clients will also find a default of 18 different lighting animations which showcase the interior's lighting capabilities where the choreography of light enhances the mood. CELESTIQ is the expression of Cadillac's artistic vision rooted in that each CELESTIQ will be a commissioned piece of art. From the seats to the dash, doors, floor and walls and roof, everything will be personalized and custom. Leatitia Lopez, lead colors, materials and finish designer stated this: “CELESTIQ provides an unparalleled freedom of expression for the client to create their dream vehicle with a multitude of possibilities to customize and personalize their interior and exterior through an immersive experience guided by the Concierge and Cadillac Design Team,” “CELESTIQ is so much more than the vehicle itself, it is a piece of art. We considered all aspects of the experience — from immersing the customer in the experience to creating an intimate connection with the vehicle through genuine materials, exceptional detailing and advanced technology.” Authentic metals, leathers and premium materials is what makes a commissioned piece of art unique to each client. Hand-Finished Metalwork: Many of the metal elements throughout CELESTIQ require detail and finish work such as fine milling, anodization and a final polishing by hand, reflecting the authenticity and high level of finish detail that goes into each handcrafted vehicle. Hand-Wrapped Leather: CELESTIQ leather surfaces are made with premium leather wrapped by artisans. Art and Color: The client is involved in every decision when it comes to the colors, materials and finishes, including the opportunity to develop new colors or paint to match in collaboration with the Cadillac design team. This enables an essentially infinite number of choices, ensuring each client’s vehicle will be a truly one-off creation. A Variety of Finishes: CELESTIQ will offer an endless range of exterior and interior colors, materials and finishes enabling clients to design a truly unique vehicle. Unprecedented innovation through technology is what each client will find in the CELESTIQ. Artfully integrated technologies that exhilarate upon first impression and become indispensable elements of every driving experience. The center piece of the interior and the CELESTIQ technology interface is the pillar-to-pillar, 55-inch-diagonal advanced HD display, the largest in the industry segment. Pixel density is comparable to 8K screens. This display will show the driver and shared vehicle information to the driver, while the passenger side allows the occupants to play media, use the internet, connect their smartphones and more. CELESTIQ has a Digital Blinds Active Privacy technology that provides a virtual privacy shield, dimming the passenger screen from the driver's view when in use. The expansive, 55-inch-diagonal advanced HD screen is one of five high-definition displays in the vehicle, including a front console mounted 11-inch-diagonal touchscreen Front Command Center and a rear console mounted 8-inch-diagonal touchscreen Rear Command Center, which allow clients to control many features within the vehicle such as the seating positions, cabin temperature, door opening and closing, tinting the all-glass roof panel and more. Rear passengers have their own 12.6-inch-diagonal advanced displays in front of them, mounted on the front seatbacks. A crystal multi-functional controller directs the primary screen and is the crown jewel of the front center console, offering intuitive control of the infotainment system and other features. The exquisitely detailed dial is composed of fine metal and glass, and it houses the Cadillac Goddess emblem. Connected Cameras: Starting with CELESTIQ, Cadillac will introduce a new connected camera platform. This platform will provide clients added peace of mind by giving them access to interior and exterior cameras through an intuitive mobile interface along with theft detection, crash recording and other useful features. Google Built-In: Google built-in is a helpful, personalized and seamless way to enhance your in-vehicle experience. With Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play you get access to hands-free help, live traffic updates, some of your favorite apps and more. Fixed Smart Glass Roof: The all-glass roof panel, the largest in the industry, employs Suspended Particle Device technology to allow variable transmission, meaning the client can control the amount of light allowed into the vehicle in four zones — one for each passenger area. A feature unique to CELESTIQ. The effect enables ultimate control over the amount of light entering the vehicle. The tint levels for the zones vary from less than 1%, for the darkest level of opacity, to 20%, which is the standard tint level of a traditional sunroof. It is also treated with infrared reflective and low-emissivity coatings that help retain heat and prevent sunlight from raising the cabin’s temperature. Furthermore, acoustic laminated glass is used extensively throughout the exterior of the vehicle, including all windows, to maximize sound isolation and provide a truly luxurious experience. Advanced Climate System: CELESTIQ is the first vehicle to feature a Gentherm ClimateSense® four-zone microclimate system as standard equipment. It features 33 unique microclimate devices that allow each occupant to tailor their seat heating and cooling, along with advanced airflow technology that creates truly individualized comfort. All four-seating positions will feature the same level of individualized comfort, including a neck scarf, heated armrests as well as heated, cooled and ventilated seats. The system can also significantly reduce HVAC energy consumption. Ultra Cruise: CELESTIQ advances Cadillac’s expertise in hands-free advanced driver assistance technologies with Ultra Cruise. The vehicle will be equipped with all of the necessary Ultra Cruise hardware to enable incremental feature growth via over-the-air updates in 2024. Additional CELESTIQ technology highlights include: A full suite of advanced, active safety features that’s backed by the most advanced sensor systems available from Cadillac. Remote Auto Parking. When activated, it allows the vehicle to detect a parallel or perpendicular parking space and guide itself into the space — shifting gears, braking and steering, as needed. This is accomplished with the driver’s supervision, whether in the driver’s seat or outside the vehicle. The feature can also “unpark” the vehicle, pulling it out of the parking space without the client needing to be inside. CELESTIQ Sound Experience Sound is a fundamental component of the CELESTIQ sensory experience that plays a vital, complementary role to the visual and tactile elements. Designers and engineers approached CELESTIQ sound features holistically, involving them in almost every aspect of the driving experience to elevate clients’ sense of place and environment. CELESTIQ offers 41-speakers, including three exterior speakers. In the cabin, a 38-speaker AKG Studio Reference Audio System custom tuned by professional audio engineers utilizes three separate amplifiers powering 30 channels for complete audio immersion. The system features technologies such as 3D Surround, Vehicle Noise Compensation, Conversation Enhancement, Phone Zones, and more. Altogether, it is designed to deliver a crisp, nuanced and undistorted listening experience. The CELESTIQ sound experience also offers quietness when desired. The vehicle will be equipped with Next Generation Active Road Noise Cancellation which works much like noise-cancelling headphones to help eliminate road noise. When coupled with other vehicle sound reduction measures, Next Generation Active Road Noise Cancellation helps to provide a clean sound canvas within the cabin. The CELESTIQ sound experience is further elevated through Electric Vehicle Sound Enhancement technology, which balances and blends the propulsion system’s sound. When coupled with Cadillac’s curated sound library, the system provides an incredible aural experience. Even the Fixed Smart Glass Roof contributes to quietness, as it is made of 7.5-mm-thick advanced noise-dampening glass — twice the thickness of a high-grade acoustic windshield, which helps minimize road noise. Additionally, CELESTIQ introduces a Cadillac-first Vehicle Exterior Sound System, which provides Cadillac curated propulsion sounds while driving. CELESTIQ World-Class Quality and Manufacturing To deliver a Cadillac unlike any other, CELESTIQ is the recipient of a commensurately advanced quality program. It’s the most ambitious in the brand’s 120-year history, leveraging the full weight of its global testing centers for real-world validation, as well as the capabilities of state-of-the-art virtual testing that helps to reduce development time. An unprecedented, sophisticated artisan manufacturing process for CELESTIQ also contributes to its quality, as each handcrafted vehicle will be constructed with obsessive levels of detail. “Cadillac’s brand legacy was forged with hand-building the most advanced vehicles of their era,” said Roma. “We are returning to that tradition with CELESTIQ, creating a piece of automotive art with each one produced.” Every CELESTIQ will be constructed at the General Motors Global Technical Center, in Warren, Michigan. The CELESTIQ manufacturing area is a high-security “clean room”-type environment known as the Artisan Center, with access granted only to the artisans involved with construction. No more than six vehicles will be assembled at any time, ensuring the many layers of attention and quality control are painstakingly executed. CELESTIQ will go into production in December 2023 with an MSRP to begin north of $300,000 and will go up based on the customization and personalization of each CELESTIQ. CELESTIQ is currently available by waitlist only at this time. One can visit https://www.cadillac.com for more information on the CELESTIQ and to sign up for the waitlist. View full article

This is so true: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella puts his finger on the problem with WFH | Fortune We have way too many business leaders using worthless data to either justify forced office work or stupid reasons that they have to monitor you to have a hybrid works system. Microsoft has nailed this as has Dell and the profits prove it. Work from home or Hybrid work from home can allow a business to excel if the leaders can inspire the workers to deliver.

The Green energy change over to solar, wind, geothermal, etc. alternative ways to power away from Oil, coal, natural gas. Yet as long as we pump oil out of the ground, we will have natural gas and they will continue to power things. Also, a renaissance of sorts is happening as nuclear power plants are instead of being shut down, getting refurbished, opened back up and new one planned. The Nuclear Energy Renaissance Has Arrived | Opinion (newsweek.com) Why nuclear energy is on the verge of a renaissance (cnbc.com) Westinghouse sale another sign of new nuclear age • The Register These are all interesting and I feel we will see this help power a change over to electric motivation for autos, freight movement, trains, etc. With Solid State Batteries having huge increase in density, power plants will need to supply the increase and as such, while green energy will be pushed big to help fill in the gap, nuclear is another source that can help.

@oldshurst442 @surreal1272 @Robert Hall @ccap41 @smk4565 @Drew Dowdell Thought you guys would find this interesting as OIL reserves tend to gauge how things are going and of course we all know that more than Autos use OIL in so many products. As such, thought you all would find this info interesting. Saudi Arabia Reveals Oil Output Is Near Its Ceiling - Bloomberg Saudi Arabia's oil reserves: how big are they really? Kemp | Reuters How Much Oil Does Saudi Arabia Really Have? (forbes.com) So based on the info above, Saudi Arabia who supposedly has the largest oil reserves in the world has only 60 to 70 years left of supply based on today's consumption and of course consumption keeps going up. Based on this interesting web site of tracking oil reserves and consumption, we have about 47 years left. I do find this site info interesting and upon looking at Venezuela as they are listed as #1 oil reserves, it appears half of their oil in the ground is what is called heavy oil and requires extensive processing to be of use. As such, this still puts Saudi Arabia in first place since their reserves is what is called lite sweet crude. World Oil Statistics - Worldometer (worldometers.info)

I see the ability to manage electricity as the next big thing as Bloomberg says Saudia Arabia that made 70% of their GNP in the 70's from oil is now only making 40% of GNP from OIL and has about 60 years left at current consumption before they are dry. The U.S. is now the worlds largest producer of OIL. So moving off it for auto's is even more important and I think those that can afford to have storage systems at their homes with Solar panels and be able to go V2H or V2G or H2G will benefit big time as I think we will see micro markets of people buying and selling their surplus electricity.

I have to say I am very excited for this truck to come out. Wonder how different it will be from the Chevrolet truck. ?

@oldshurst442 The FreeWire Chargers are able to do 200 miles in 15 minutes due to the built-in battery pack that allows lower voltage electrical connections so it can store power for repeated charges fast.

According to the CDC infections have broken down as follows here in the U.S. based on type of blood. Type A - 41.8% of the overall infected had this blood type. Type B - 29.93% of the overall infected had this blood type. Type AB - 21.19% of the overall infected had this blood type. Type O - 7.08% of the overall infected had this blood type. Clearly Type O is the most resilient to being infected. AB is second and Type A is the most common that gets infected. @oldshurst442 Do you know what type your Wife, Kids and you are? Maybe your wife is type O so she is very resistant to it naturally. I am glad to hear you and your family are mending.

GMC Sierra Denali EV Truck is set to be revealed on October 20th, 2022, @ 5pm EST here in the U.S. and to wet our appetites, they gave us the following: They also have it on their Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjtCpdgDPKb/ GMC - GMC (@gmc) • Instagram photos and videos Meet The First-Ever GMC Sierra EV: Electric Truck Will be interesting to see the truck and hopefully some actual details on everything from the Powertrain to mileage, options, etc. View full article

The picture of the BP logo'd FreeWire Ultra-Fast Charger is the fueling dispenser of the 21st Century.

The future is charging and with-it Chevron and Texaco, a subsidiary of Chevron are moving forward with EV Ultra-Fast Charging using FreeWire battery backed chargers. Both company owned and franchised retailer/marketer stations will have FreeWire Charging available. FreeWire's approach is an integrated one that couples battery integration and energy management software with analytics to optimize the ultra-fast charging of ones EV. FreeWire calls these Boost Chargers that will allow a customer to charge 200 miles of range in 15 minutes. Boost Chargers are able to use existing low-voltage utility service and deliver high-power charging that normally requires upgraded electrical connections and in some areas grid upgrades. Per Jesse Love, Chevron's retail brand experience manager: “Chevron believes the future of energy is lower carbon, and our program with FreeWire is another step on our journey to deliver all forms of energy to our customers,” “We are committed to investing billions in lower-carbon projects over the next 10 years and are excited to join with companies like FreeWire that develop technologies that enhance our retail offerings and can grow our Chevron and Texaco brands.” This agreement will allow the Chevron/Texaco stations to unlock new relationships with EV drivers as it expands the options for fueling and shopping especially when on the road. The Chevron and Texaco mobile apps will be upgraded starting this fall 2022 to show what stations have EV Ultra-Fast Chargers and current availability. This is what Chevron/Texaco say is delivering a great customer experience. FreeWire is continuing to disrupt the EV charging market as they offer unique solutions to traditional fueler, including additional brands such as bp and Phillips66 who have already started rolling out their own branded EV chargers built by FreeWire. Home - FreeWire Technologies FreeWire is actively involved at many levels in the NEVI (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) program. Expect to see these kinds of chargers become very common across the U.S. View full article

@regfootball Thank you for posting, I just do not have enough time to cover everything that gets press released. Here is the official press release: 2024 Chevrolet Trax Delivers Beyond Expectations Starting MSRP of $21,495 with the following: Five distinct personalities — LS, 1RS, LT, 2RS and ACTIV — offer design and content choices, while all trims add enhanced features and technologies, including: Chevy Safety Assist2 with six advanced safety and driver awareness technologies Larger infotainment3 screens — a standard 8-inch-diagonal system and an 11-inch-diagonal screen on LT, 2RS and ACTIV trims Wireless Apple CarPlay4 and Android Auto5 capability LED headlamps 17-inch, 18-inch or 19-inch wheels Four-wheel disc brakes Active Noise Cancellation Additional new features on most trims include push-button start, automatic climate control, wireless phone charging6 and more. Cruise control is also standard equipment on all models and Adaptive Cruise Control2 is available on some trims, a first for Trax. The new Trax is powered by a 1.2L turbocharged inline-three engine rated at a GM-estimated 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It is matched with a proven six-speed automatic transmission. The turbo contributes to excellent on-demand power, particularly for passing maneuvers and on-ramp acceleration. Each trim has specific design cues, including specific grille designs and wheels, as well as unique décor, depending on the model: LS and LT feature clean, straightforward designs, with additional bright trim on LT. 17-inch steel wheels are standard on LS and 17-inch machined aluminum wheels are standard on LT. RS trims offer the Trax’s sportiest design with additional exterior trim accents, as well as a unique grille with an embedded RS badge. The 1RS trim includes unique 18-inch machine-faced aluminum wheels and the 2RS features 19-inch machine-faced aluminum wheels. The new ACTIV has a monochromatic look including titanium chrome accents and an aggressive-looking rear skid plate motif. It also features unique black 18-inch wheels.. The different trims also receive their own décor and accents, including: LT features black seats with Sky Cool Gray accents 2RS features red accents on the seats and a racing-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel ACTIV features Evotex seats with yellow accents RS and ACTIV trims feature black bowtie emblems Additional standard and available content include: Center console with ergonomically optimized shifter location An electronic parking brake opens up more storage space in the console Four bottle holders and two cupholders Heated front seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors are standard on 1RS, 2RS and ACTIV and available on LT. Heated front seats and outside mirrors are available on LS Remote start standard on 1RS, LT, 2RS and ACTIV and available on LS Automatic climate control, push-button start and added rear-seat USB ports on LT, 2RS and ACTIV Power-adjustable driver’s seat on ACTIV Available sunroof For the first time on Trax, customers can wirelessly connect Apple CarPlay4 or Android Auto5 to the infotainment system, while wireless phone charging6 is a new available feature on LT, 2RS and ACTIV. Trax also continues to offer Wi-Fi Hotspot capability7. 2024 Chevy Trax Trim Starting at Pricing1 LS 1RS LT 2RS ACTIV $21,495 $23,195 $23,395 $24,995 $24,995 Full Specs can be seen on this Press Release: 2024 Chevrolet Trax Delivers Beyond Expectations

You still do not get it, any auto selling in the car space with a starting MSRP $44,600 is a competitor to the C-Class. Any SUV/CUV that starts at $44,900 is a competitor to the GLC. STOP, JUST STOP trying to move everything to fit your narrative and open your eyes to the fact that auto companies are no longer playing the game of: "This Size is SubCompact, This Size is Compact, This Size is Mid-Size and This Size is Full Size." Every auto company is trying to offer what they believe is the right size for each category of auto and the sizes are all over now. Mercedes plays in the mass market space and in the luxury space as well as the commercial space all under one name unlike other auto companies. END OF LINE!

Very cool Tech. Very cool read. NASA EV cable tech could charge electric vehicles in 5 mins - or less (usatoday.com)

@smk4565 Per your own Chart that you posted, the bulk of Sales comes from two models, C-Class and GLC. MSRP starts for C-Class at $44,600 for the GLC $44,900. Regardless of other higher-level trims, the starting point shows these are prices to compete with Chevrolet, Toyota, VW, etc. and as such are not a luxury product but a mass market product. This is the Grey area that Mercedes loves to sell in and take ones money but still also be a snob to look at high end models and think it covers the whole product line.

@surreal1272 This whole thread has clearly shown the fear of those that want to believe lies rather than facts and truth. A major problem we have in America. It is going to be interesting to see how people respond to the expanded GM business model of auto sales, Ultium Home, Ultium Commercial and Ultium Charge 360. If anything, GM has a better marketing story as they give a complete solution than to anything Europe or Asia currently has. The only other company to offer complete solutions is Tesla and yet they have not done one thing that is an interesting observation is the V2G and V2H which only Kia and Hyundai have included in their EVs. None of that tech is found in Mercedes, BMW or Audi products let alone the rest of the European autos. GM is truly leading the move to the future of Technology, Autos and power management.

My own observation is how does an auto company generate additional revenue when the repair side shrinks due to the nearly maintenance free part of an EV? The energy business seems a smart solution for GM to expand into ensuring long term revenue growth that is far more consistent than the auto business selling could provide.

General Motors Ultium Eco system of products and services will be run under the new GM Energy business unit. This covers the following: Ultium Home Ultium Commercial Ultium Charge 360 This is a holistic ecosystem of energy management products and services that will help drive growth beyond the core auto business portfolio. The GM solutions are designed to provide customers with a more seamless and integrated energy management while helping to improve grid resiliency. GM has a growing number of large-scale companies across the U.S. that have signed on to receive energy solutions through the GM Energy portfolio of products and services and collaborate with GM to pilot and develop expanded offerings through the energy ecosystem. GM Energy connected product and service offerings are a cohesive energy management for home, commercial and EV customers. The bi-directional charging with vehicle-to-home (V2H) and vehicle-to-gride (V2G) applications, to stationary storage, solar products, software applications, cloud management tools, microgrid solutions, and more. GM Energy's services will also enable the sale of energy from EV and stationary storage batteries back to utilities during peak, high energy consumption periods, unlocking even more potential value for customers and increasing resiliency for the electrical grid. GM has realized that the Ultium Home solutions might not apply to all and each auto division that includes the home charger is also allowing alternative solutions such as a value amount for using Ultium Charge 360 power for charging versus an installed home 220V charger. "Everybody In" is the moto at GM and this is expanding beyond the traditional auto buyer to include both home and commercial owners of buildings as the way one looks at charging has become a fluid motion of charging and returning power to the home or more importantly grid via access to charging. Be it home, workplace, public or fleet charging, the way one looks at how they use and support the electrical grid is changing. Ultium Charge 360 is so much more than just GM's own charging network as GM has signed agreements with the following seven major charging providers: Blink Charging ChargePoint EV Connect EVgo FLO Greenlots SemaConnect Through the GM vehicle mobil apps, EV customers will be able to see real-time information from nearly 60,000 charging plugs throughout North America allowing for one to find stations along a route, initiate and pay for charging or use the credits on your account to charge your EV. The first GM Ultium Charge 360 sites are live in Washington, California and Florida covering 2,700 fast chargers in cities and suburbs at the end of 2021. Each charge point delivering up to 350 kW of power with an average of four fast chargers per site. New sites as they come online will show up in your vehicle mobile app. GM has already signed several large-scale companies covering the U.S. from coast to coast to provide energy solutions for customers through GM Energy. One of the largest agreements is with Sun Power, one of the nations largest solar technology and energy services providers. Together, Sun Power and GM Energy will continue to develop and offer customers home energy systems which will consist of integrated EV and battery solutions, solar panels and home energy storage. A primary feature of the home energy system is expected to enable drivers to deliver power to their homes with the battery in their compatible EV, designed to give them the ability to power their homes necessities in a blackout or draw from stored energy during peak rate times reducing electric costs. Sunpower will be a preferred installer for the home energy system and offer customers the opportunity to add solar to their homes. The Ultium Home energy solutions will be available for purchase along with the launch of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV in the fall of 2023. GM Energy Ultium Commercial is another area that will roll out services as they come online with various energy providers. Pacific Gas and Electric Company of California has signed an agreement with GM Energy enabling residential customers to have V2H along with bi-directional charger as a backup power for their essential home needs during short-term power outages. A testing subset of customers is now underway and an expanded California offering is to begin at the start of 2023. Another GM Energy agreement is with Con Edison, Graniterock and New Hampshire Electric cooperative (NHEC) that will deliver energy solutions to customers, while also working with GM Energy on advanced future electric offerings. To quote the GM Energy press release: “GM Energy’s mission is to offer customers access to a full suite of energy products and services, including solutions beyond the vehicle, accelerating the seamless transition to an all-electric future,” “With the expansion of our enterprise business through GM Energy and one of the most comprehensive portfolios of energy management products and services available, we will help to reduce the barriers of entry for sustainable power and further accelerate the mass adoption of EVs.” Mark Bole, VP and head of V2X Battery Solutions at GM made the following statement: “The massive scale of GM Energy’s solutions will allow us to better address current challenges with grid infrastructure, energy storage and energy management head on,” “By leveraging GM’s flexible technology platforms and the power of Ultium, we’re able to provide resilient and accessible energy solutions for all customers and the grid, helping to further advance the all-electric future.” More information about GM Energy and the available offerings through Ultium Home, Ultium Commercial and Ultium Charge 360 are available at GM Energy: An Electric Ecosystem, Reimagined View full article

Yes, the are a full auto company, not a luxury only auto company. They compete in all Segments. With the Avereage transaction price of $72,100 for all of 2021 for SUVs/Crossovers. Mercedes is not just a luxury auto company, but a mass market company with their two best products right in the middle competing with everyone else. U.S.: Average new vehicle price by vehicle type | Statista Full Chart shows that Mercedes is a mass market auto company. Welcome to the New Generation.

@smk4565 You already know as you can as well as I can if I wanted to waste any more time post the sales volume of Mercedes-Benz auto's by model from their own reporting page and it shows that MB makes the bulk of their sales and money from the low to middle class of auto sales and as has been posted way too many times, the E-Class Taxis sales across Europe and Asia. As such, Mercedes is a mass auto company that makes some money off selling a luxury product in small quantities and bulk off of mass low to mid level products. They are not a dedicated Luxury only Auto maker. END OF LINE!