The Cadillac Elmiraj concept has been revealed, showcasing the iconic American luxury brand’s vision for its next-generation flagship sports models.
An evolution of last year’s open-top Ciel concept, Cadillac design director Mark Adams says the Elmiraj grand coupe concept explores new dimensions for Cadillac’s expansion and aims to express the pure enjoyment of driving.
“Elmiraj advances Cadillac’s provocative modern design and performance, contrasted with bespoke craftsmanship and luxury,” Adams said.
“It explores performance driving, as well as how we’re approaching elevating the Cadillac range and new dimensions of ‘Art & Science’ philosophy.”
The 5.2m-long rear-wheel-drive Elmiraj concept features a 373kW/678Nm twin-turbocharged 4.5-litre V8 petrol engine that borrows technology from the manufacturer’s new twin-turbo V6 destined for the 2014 CTS Vsport.
Signature Cadillac design elements are emphasised in the Elmiraj, headlined by the concept’s long bonnet and wheelbase, clean side panels, assertive grille and vertical headlights and tail-lights.
The revised Cadillac crest appears for the first time in modern history without the wreath, which is intended to underscore the car’s tailored and streamlined design.
Long bonnet vents that act as hot air outlets for the meaty V8, massive 22-inch aluminium wheels and large ceramic brakes with monoblock calipers highlight the car’s performance credentials.
The four-seat cabin aims to blend crafted luxury with generous space and driver-focused performance features. Bespoke trim elements of hand-cut Brazilian Rosewood veneer, camel leather and titanium embrace the seats, doors and other surfaces.
Unique to the Elmiraj is a transparent instrument cluster arrangement, with the speedometer and tachometer positioned in front of a high-resolution display that projects driver information and images from a front-mounted camera.
A 10-inch touchscreen for navigation and other infotainment functions can be concealed in the dashboard when not in use.
The Cadillac Elmiraj was created by designers at the brand’s North Hollywood studio in California and was hand-built by in-house craftsmen in Michigan.
