Cadillac unveiled its new Opulent Velocity concept vehicle in August, showing off a high-tech, sci-fi-styled design and some rather interesting technology propositions. Although some of these propositions are definitely “pie in the sky,” others are bit more down to earth, including the concept’s active underbody spoiler. In fact, we’d wager that the Cadillac Opulent Velocity’s active aero actually hints at things to come on the production side of things.
This very topic was discussed in a recent episode of the Cadillac Society podcast, which can be found above. During the podcast, GM Authority Executive Editor Alex Luft and The Man Known As “G” go in-depth in discussing the new concept, picking it apart in detail and providing theories as to what bits and pieces may make it to production – and how.
Among the features discussed is the concept’s active aero treatment. As the podcast hosts point out, the Opulent Velocity concept incorporates a sleek rear end design that’s completely devoid of any trunk-mounted spoiler or wing, which maintains the vehicle’s elegant look without distraction. That said, the “Velocity” half of the concept necessitates some sort of aero treatment, which is where the active bits come into play.
Underneath the tail, we find a pair of aero elements that jut out from either side of the rear bumper and incorporate an inner lighting element. Between these aero elements is a large, empty space.
“Instead of having a trunk-mounted or deck lid-mounted spoiler that is deployable at different speeds, this Opulent Velocity concept essentially has a deployable valance as a spoiler,” Luft states in the podcast.
With a hidden, deployable valance, the Cadillac Opulent Velocity would keep the clean look of a wingless trunk, all while benefitting from the aero benefits of an active rear valance. This is particularly beneficial for a concept like this, as the high-performance side of the concept seeks to find balance with the “Opulent,” luxury side of the concept, all while maintaining the slippery aero efficiency of an all-electric vehicle.
The big question is this – will Cadillac employ this sort of design in its production vehicles, as well? For now, that remains to be determined, but it’s still entirely possible that the active aero on the Opulent Velocity is indeed a sign of things to come.
Comments
Opulent Velocity? Is that something similar to a Back To The Future thing, lol?
I think the first part of this concept that we will see go into production is the front end design. WSJ recently posted a video on YouTube (Inside GM’s Newly Updated ‘Willy Wonka Factory for Car Design’) that should a number of model’s currently being worked on in the studio. At the 4:00 mark, they show a clay model of what looks like the body of the Lyriq, but with the front end more similar to the Opulent Velocity. Perhaps hinting at a mid-cycle refresh for Lyriq. Hopefully they keep some sort of unique lighting animation from the Lyriq though.
Looks great, sign me up……make mine the 2×4, LS version.
👍