What We Know: 2014 Cadillac ELR (Updated)

With Cadillac’s press conference commencing tomorrow morning, now would be a perfect time to recap on everything we know — and what’s been rumored — regarding the upcoming ELR plug-in coupe.

Don’t Call It A “Cadillac Volt”

The Cadillac ELR may, in many ways, will be similar to the Chevrolet Volt we know today. Early spy photos of the luxurious extended-range-electric-vehicle even featured the shell of the Volt covering its chassis and drivetrain, because both models rely on GM’s Delta II global compact vehicle architecture. But the similarities will likely stop there, since the upcoming Cadillac ELR will be the latest example of plug-in vehicle technology from The General, surpassing the Volt’s already futuristic drivetrain.

As such, expect the ELR to feature an estimated electric range greater than that of the Chevrolet Volt, while even using a different gasoline engine as its range-extender for long distance trips. The ELR will use the same powertrain as the Volt, but will make more power. Also, expect completely different looks and materials in the cabin compared to the Volt.

Expect A Spitting Image Of The Converj Concept

All signs point to the Cadillac ELR being very, very close in resemblance to the Converj — the concept car that inspired it. In fact, the Converj was at one point destined for production, but development was shelved. But with the latest Voltec technology, and a need to expand Cadillac’s portfolio, the Converj will live on as the ELR, giving the brand a direct competitor to the upcoming BMW i8 plug-in coupe. All spy photos, and even official teaser photos, tell us that the design of the Converj is very present in the ELR, save for perhaps widened headlights and functional mirrors. However, the interior of the ELR is expected to be drastically different from that of the Converj, in that it will utilize Cadillac’s recent interior design language, instead of the spaceship-themed cabin found in the concept car.

Expect The Latest Version Of Cadillac CUE

For better or worse, Cadillac will continue to use CUE for the foreseeable future. This includes the ELR, though this doesn’t mean that we can expect the exact same system that made its debut in the large XTS sedan last spring. Expect incremental improvements to the Linux-based system, but don’t expect any radical layout changes.

Stay tuned to GM Authority for more on Cadillac’s exciting new vehicle as the hours tick away. But if you have any questions you would like to have answered, please ask them in the comment section below.

Update: Cadillac has just announced the ELR; check out the details of the industry’s first plug-in extended-range vehicle, complete with specifications and photos, right here.