Official: Cadillac Elmiraj Concept
08-16-13, 12:00 AM
#1
Official: Cadillac Elmiraj Concept
Cadillac Elmiraj Concept
Gallery: Monterey
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/cadil...#photo-716170/
Gallery: Concept
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/cadil...#photo-716147/
Two years ago, Cadillac absolutely floored us with the debut of its gorgeous Ciel concept at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. And since that droptop four-door's debut, we've seen plenty of its design language worked into the latest Cadillac products. Now, we're seriously hoping that history will repeat itself with this stunning new Elmiraj coupe concept, which makes its first public appearance in Monterey this week.
Cadillac states that the Elmiraj concept simply showcases the next step forward for the brand's Art & Science design DNA, and doesn't necessarily preview an upcoming model. But if you told us the Elmiraj was a conceptual look at the next-generation CTS Coupe, or a smaller, two-door version of a new flagship, we'd believe you. At 207 inches long, 76 inches wide and 55 inches tall, its dimensions are only slightly larger than the current two-door CTS.
Regardless of what the Elmiraj does or does not become, it's certainly a fantastic modern interpretation of the classic GT formula with its short front overhang, long hood, rakish roofline and petite rear deck. The strong character lines running along the sides and exaggerated 22-inch wheels round out the beautiful coupe, and Cadillac's signature vertical LED lighting elements are found at the front and rear. Also take note: the badge on the grille is a crest without a wreath, basically confirming our earlier report.
The Elmiraj wears Cadillac's new Vsport model designation, and for good reason. Under the hood is an all-new, twin-turbocharged 4.5-liter V8, estimated to produce 500 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. That should make for a rather quick coupe, even with the roughly 4,000-pound curb weight of this concept.
Inside, the Elmiraj follows the proper GT theme with a four-person seating configuration and a raised center console that spans the length of the cabin. Backlit titanium trim nicely contrasts the caramel-colored leather upholstery, and the interior is finished with fallen Brazilian Rosewood accents, which are hand-cut into three-dimensional sections for "perfect control of the grain flow," according to Cadillac. Special attention was paid to the rear seats, as well, where a new "valet feature" moves the front seat up a full 10 inches, and slides the rear seat four inches forward to meet the passenger. The rear seat then moves back into its original position with the passenger in tow. And hey, those rear seats even recline.
Elmiraj Concept Explores Top of Cadillac's Range
CARMEL, Calif. – Cadillac today revealed the Elmiraj Concept, a grand coupe expressing the pure enjoyment of driving and exploring new dimensions for Cadillac's ongoing expansion. The Elmiraj Concept showcases a new vision for luxury driving and the top of the brand's expanding range.
"Cadillac is fueled by the creativity of our designers, led by Ed Welburn," said Bob Ferguson, senior vice president, Global Cadillac. "Elmiraj provides a look inside the Cadillac Studio on how we envision performance and luxury for the next generation of luxury drivers."
A modern update to the classic format of a two-door grand coupe, Elmiraj is a pure expression of streamlined design and engaging rear-wheel drive performance.
At 205 inches (5207mm) in overall length, Elmiraj is four-seat coupe with presence and poise. Taking up from where the memorable Ciel Concept left off, Elmiraj is a statement of pure luxury and performance with a purposeful character and proportion.
The concept advances Cadillac's philosophy of dramatic design and performance, and its commitment to lightweight, agile cars. Elmiraj is constructed with chassis and structural elements of an ongoing Cadillac vehicle development project slated for future production. This new vehicle architecture expands the brand's commitment to lightweight RWD performance, exemplified in the ATS sport sedan and the all-new and elevated 2014 CTS launching this fall in the U.S.
"Elmiraj advances Cadillac's provocative modern design and performance, contrasted with bespoke craftsmanship and luxury," said Mark Adams, Cadillac design director. "It explores performance driving, as well as how we're approaching elevating the Cadillac range and new dimensions of Art & Science philosophy."
Elmiraj is powered by a 4.5-liter twin turbocharged V8 delivering an estimated 500 hp. The engine takes the baseline technology from the new Cadillac Twin Turbo V6 featured in the upcoming 420-hp 2014 CTS Vsport edition, and expands it to the classic performance format of a V8 engine.
Dramatic Exterior Proportion
With a heritage of imaginative designs, Cadillac approaches concept cars as a method for projecting design forward rather than simply exaggerating or "teasing" future production models. Elmiraj was created from this mindset, and therefore suggests new territory for Cadillac Art & Science.
"This concept is the second chapter, following the Ciel Concept, of our exploration of the personas of true luxury," said Clay Dean, executive director of advanced design. "This project originated around the simple persona of "the drive," or the visceral experience of driving a great luxury coupe. It's an expression of the confidence and poise you feel driving a high-performance car, which we feel is an essential element of top-level luxury."
The dramatic proportion communicates power and performance. A long dash-to-axle front profile, a Cadillac signature, gives the coupe a performance-oriented form. The long wheelbase and clean body side characterizes the car's spacious dimensions and elevated status.
The fast cabin sits within a fuselage where taut fender lines spline through the full sectioned body, literally blending art and science. Cadillac's vertical light signature is represented in both the headlamp graphic and tail lamp. A gently applied feature line in the sheet metal extends the full length of the body side, connecting those vertical front and rear elements.
"Elmiraj is about poise and proportion," said Niki Smart, lead exterior designer. "We wanted a mature statement for Cadillac, where simplicity and subtle adornments create a purposeful presence."
Elmiraj contains design elements emphasizing Cadillac's capabilities for engaging driving performance in its production portfolio. Two vents in the car's long hood are functional, acting as hot air outlets for the twin turbo engine. Elmiraj has 22-x-9-in. aluminum wheels are backed by large ceramic brakes with Cadillac monoblock calipers. The car's rich blue exterior finish wears the brand's Vsport designation, Cadillac's new level slotting directly under the high-performance V-Series.
The face of Elmiraj experiments with new visual elements, yet is unmistakably Cadillac. The grille emphasizes the car's substantial road presence. The Cadillac Crest appears in a conceptual form, streamlined and tailored to the car's overall design. This design idea for a revised crest reflects the fact that Cadillac's unmistakable symbol has evolved dozens of times through history to mark new eras or design achievements.
Exquisitely Crafted Interior
The interior of Elmiraj blends elegantly crafted luxury and generous space with driver-focused performance elements. The upper section of the instrument panel is a single piece extending across the full width of the car, while the lower forms a cockpit space tailored for performance.
"A concept provides not only an opportunity to explore new design ideas, but to pursue new techniques for elegant craftsmanship and materials," said Gael Buzyn, lead interior designer.
Backlit titanium trim curves from the cowl to the doors, dividing the rich upper camel leather from the wood trim. Cadillac Studio craftsmen handpicked fallen Brazilian Rosewood, a wood veneer prized for its use for hundreds of years in home furnishings and musical instruments. The wood is hand-cut into three dimensional sections for perfect control of the grain flow.
The car's instrumentation features an analog tachometer and speedometer that are transparent. Directly behind the analog gauges sits a wide screen, high resolution display which projects driver information and the output of a front-mounted camera. A 10-inch touchscreen for navigation and connectivity can be concealed inside the instrument panel when not in use.
The 2+2 layout features high-performance seats, designed to support spirited driving while also delivering luxury accommodation. Elmiraj passengers might actually lobby to sit in the back. The rear bucket seats each contain a valet feature to ease entry and exit. The front bucket seat slides 10 inches forward while the rear bucket seat slides 4 inches forward to meet the passenger, then slides him or her back into position once seated. The rear bucket seats recline for additional comfort.
Many of the most celebrated automotive designs through history have been luxury coupes
"We were influenced in particular by the 1967 Eldorado, both its actual design and the fact that in its time that car was a very stark contrast and a new direction. More recent design like the CTS-V Coupe and the ELR are provocative," said Dean, the advanced design director. "Both of these cars were major statements of performance and luxury and drove Cadillac forward into new territory."
Designers at General Motors' advanced design studio in North Hollywood, Calif., under the direction of Frank Saucedo, led the development of the car's interior and exterior. Elmiraj was hand-built by in-house craftsmen in Michigan.
Cadillac Elmiraj Specifications
Model Elmiraj Concept
Body Style 4-passenger, 2-door grand coupe
Dimensions
Height 55 in / 1397 mm
Width 76 in / 1930 mm
Length 205 in / 5207 mm
Curb Weight Approx. 4000 lb / 1814 kg
Powertrain
Engine 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8
Power 500 hp / 373 kW
Torque 500 lb-ft / 678 Nm
CARMEL, Calif. – Cadillac today revealed the Elmiraj Concept, a grand coupe expressing the pure enjoyment of driving and exploring new dimensions for Cadillac's ongoing expansion. The Elmiraj Concept showcases a new vision for luxury driving and the top of the brand's expanding range.
"Cadillac is fueled by the creativity of our designers, led by Ed Welburn," said Bob Ferguson, senior vice president, Global Cadillac. "Elmiraj provides a look inside the Cadillac Studio on how we envision performance and luxury for the next generation of luxury drivers."
A modern update to the classic format of a two-door grand coupe, Elmiraj is a pure expression of streamlined design and engaging rear-wheel drive performance.
At 205 inches (5207mm) in overall length, Elmiraj is four-seat coupe with presence and poise. Taking up from where the memorable Ciel Concept left off, Elmiraj is a statement of pure luxury and performance with a purposeful character and proportion.
The concept advances Cadillac's philosophy of dramatic design and performance, and its commitment to lightweight, agile cars. Elmiraj is constructed with chassis and structural elements of an ongoing Cadillac vehicle development project slated for future production. This new vehicle architecture expands the brand's commitment to lightweight RWD performance, exemplified in the ATS sport sedan and the all-new and elevated 2014 CTS launching this fall in the U.S.
"Elmiraj advances Cadillac's provocative modern design and performance, contrasted with bespoke craftsmanship and luxury," said Mark Adams, Cadillac design director. "It explores performance driving, as well as how we're approaching elevating the Cadillac range and new dimensions of Art & Science philosophy."
Elmiraj is powered by a 4.5-liter twin turbocharged V8 delivering an estimated 500 hp. The engine takes the baseline technology from the new Cadillac Twin Turbo V6 featured in the upcoming 420-hp 2014 CTS Vsport edition, and expands it to the classic performance format of a V8 engine.
Dramatic Exterior Proportion
With a heritage of imaginative designs, Cadillac approaches concept cars as a method for projecting design forward rather than simply exaggerating or "teasing" future production models. Elmiraj was created from this mindset, and therefore suggests new territory for Cadillac Art & Science.
"This concept is the second chapter, following the Ciel Concept, of our exploration of the personas of true luxury," said Clay Dean, executive director of advanced design. "This project originated around the simple persona of "the drive," or the visceral experience of driving a great luxury coupe. It's an expression of the confidence and poise you feel driving a high-performance car, which we feel is an essential element of top-level luxury."
The dramatic proportion communicates power and performance. A long dash-to-axle front profile, a Cadillac signature, gives the coupe a performance-oriented form. The long wheelbase and clean body side characterizes the car's spacious dimensions and elevated status.
The fast cabin sits within a fuselage where taut fender lines spline through the full sectioned body, literally blending art and science. Cadillac's vertical light signature is represented in both the headlamp graphic and tail lamp. A gently applied feature line in the sheet metal extends the full length of the body side, connecting those vertical front and rear elements.
"Elmiraj is about poise and proportion," said Niki Smart, lead exterior designer. "We wanted a mature statement for Cadillac, where simplicity and subtle adornments create a purposeful presence."
Elmiraj contains design elements emphasizing Cadillac's capabilities for engaging driving performance in its production portfolio. Two vents in the car's long hood are functional, acting as hot air outlets for the twin turbo engine. Elmiraj has 22-x-9-in. aluminum wheels are backed by large ceramic brakes with Cadillac monoblock calipers. The car's rich blue exterior finish wears the brand's Vsport designation, Cadillac's new level slotting directly under the high-performance V-Series.
The face of Elmiraj experiments with new visual elements, yet is unmistakably Cadillac. The grille emphasizes the car's substantial road presence. The Cadillac Crest appears in a conceptual form, streamlined and tailored to the car's overall design. This design idea for a revised crest reflects the fact that Cadillac's unmistakable symbol has evolved dozens of times through history to mark new eras or design achievements.
Exquisitely Crafted Interior
The interior of Elmiraj blends elegantly crafted luxury and generous space with driver-focused performance elements. The upper section of the instrument panel is a single piece extending across the full width of the car, while the lower forms a cockpit space tailored for performance.
"A concept provides not only an opportunity to explore new design ideas, but to pursue new techniques for elegant craftsmanship and materials," said Gael Buzyn, lead interior designer.
Backlit titanium trim curves from the cowl to the doors, dividing the rich upper camel leather from the wood trim. Cadillac Studio craftsmen handpicked fallen Brazilian Rosewood, a wood veneer prized for its use for hundreds of years in home furnishings and musical instruments. The wood is hand-cut into three dimensional sections for perfect control of the grain flow.
The car's instrumentation features an analog tachometer and speedometer that are transparent. Directly behind the analog gauges sits a wide screen, high resolution display which projects driver information and the output of a front-mounted camera. A 10-inch touchscreen for navigation and connectivity can be concealed inside the instrument panel when not in use.
The 2+2 layout features high-performance seats, designed to support spirited driving while also delivering luxury accommodation. Elmiraj passengers might actually lobby to sit in the back. The rear bucket seats each contain a valet feature to ease entry and exit. The front bucket seat slides 10 inches forward while the rear bucket seat slides 4 inches forward to meet the passenger, then slides him or her back into position once seated. The rear bucket seats recline for additional comfort.
Many of the most celebrated automotive designs through history have been luxury coupes
"We were influenced in particular by the 1967 Eldorado, both its actual design and the fact that in its time that car was a very stark contrast and a new direction. More recent design like the CTS-V Coupe and the ELR are provocative," said Dean, the advanced design director. "Both of these cars were major statements of performance and luxury and drove Cadillac forward into new territory."
Designers at General Motors' advanced design studio in North Hollywood, Calif., under the direction of Frank Saucedo, led the development of the car's interior and exterior. Elmiraj was hand-built by in-house craftsmen in Michigan.
Cadillac Elmiraj Specifications
Model Elmiraj Concept
Body Style 4-passenger, 2-door grand coupe
Dimensions
Height 55 in / 1397 mm
Width 76 in / 1930 mm
Length 205 in / 5207 mm
Curb Weight Approx. 4000 lb / 1814 kg
Powertrain
Engine 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8
Power 500 hp / 373 kW
Torque 500 lb-ft / 678 Nm
08-16-13, 12:02 AM
#2
Cadillac Elmiraj Specifications
Model Elmiraj Concept
Body Style 4-passenger, 2-door grand coupe
Dimensions
Height 55 in / 1397 mm
Width 76 in / 1930 mm
Length 205 in / 5207 mm
Curb Weight Approx. 4000 lb / 1814 kg
Powertrain
Engine 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8
Power 500 hp / 373 kW
Torque 500 lb-ft / 678 Nm
Model Elmiraj Concept
Body Style 4-passenger, 2-door grand coupe
Dimensions
Height 55 in / 1397 mm
Width 76 in / 1930 mm
Length 205 in / 5207 mm
Curb Weight Approx. 4000 lb / 1814 kg
Powertrain
Engine 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8
Power 500 hp / 373 kW
Torque 500 lb-ft / 678 Nm
08-16-13, 07:41 AM
#7
Cadillac Elmiraj concept unveiled, hints at a possible flagship [videos]
Features a twin-turbo 4.5-liter V8 with 500 bhp (373 kW)
Cadillac has officially unveiled the Elmiraj Concept.
Designed to explore the "top of Cadillac’s range," the Elmiraj is a "grand coupe" that draws inspiration from the 1967 Eldorado and the stunning Ciel concept.
The front end is dominated by a massive grille which features a revised Cadillac crest that is "streamlined and tailored to the car’s overall design." The coupe also has a ventilated hood, vertical lighting units and 22-inch aluminum wheels that are backed up by carbon ceramic brakes.
The futuristic cabin comes nicely equipped with high-performance seats, camel leather upholstery and Brazilian Rosewood trim which was "hand-cut into three dimensional sections for perfect control of the grain flow." The model also has a full-length center console and a retractable infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen display. There's also a high-tech instrument cluster with a transparent tachometer and speedometer that sit on top of a high resolution display that provides vehicle information.
To ease access to the second row, a valet system slides the front seat 10 inches forward and the rear seat 4 inches forward to meet the passenger. When the person is seated, the seat slides back into position.
Cadillac didn't have much to say about the car's technical specifications but confirmed it has a twin-turbo 4.5-liter V8 engine that develops approximately 500 bhp (373 kW) and 500 lb-ft (678 Nm) of torque. The company also said the concept uses "chassis and structural elements of an ongoing Cadillac vehicle development project slated for future production." This likely means it rides on the Omega platform which is slated to underpin the company's flagship sedan.
According to Cadillac design director Mark Adams, “Elmiraj advances Cadillac’s provocative modern design and performance, contrasted with bespoke craftsmanship and luxury. It explores performance driving, as well as how we’re approaching elevating the Cadillac range and new dimensions of Art & Science philosophy.”
Cadillac has officially unveiled the Elmiraj Concept.
Designed to explore the "top of Cadillac’s range," the Elmiraj is a "grand coupe" that draws inspiration from the 1967 Eldorado and the stunning Ciel concept.
The front end is dominated by a massive grille which features a revised Cadillac crest that is "streamlined and tailored to the car’s overall design." The coupe also has a ventilated hood, vertical lighting units and 22-inch aluminum wheels that are backed up by carbon ceramic brakes.
The futuristic cabin comes nicely equipped with high-performance seats, camel leather upholstery and Brazilian Rosewood trim which was "hand-cut into three dimensional sections for perfect control of the grain flow." The model also has a full-length center console and a retractable infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen display. There's also a high-tech instrument cluster with a transparent tachometer and speedometer that sit on top of a high resolution display that provides vehicle information.
To ease access to the second row, a valet system slides the front seat 10 inches forward and the rear seat 4 inches forward to meet the passenger. When the person is seated, the seat slides back into position.
Cadillac didn't have much to say about the car's technical specifications but confirmed it has a twin-turbo 4.5-liter V8 engine that develops approximately 500 bhp (373 kW) and 500 lb-ft (678 Nm) of torque. The company also said the concept uses "chassis and structural elements of an ongoing Cadillac vehicle development project slated for future production." This likely means it rides on the Omega platform which is slated to underpin the company's flagship sedan.
According to Cadillac design director Mark Adams, “Elmiraj advances Cadillac’s provocative modern design and performance, contrasted with bespoke craftsmanship and luxury. It explores performance driving, as well as how we’re approaching elevating the Cadillac range and new dimensions of Art & Science philosophy.”
Trending Topics
08-16-13, 07:43 AM
#8
Cadillac Elmiraj Concept Video, First Look
http://www.autoguide.com/gallery/d/8...Concept-16.JPG
Kicking off the reveals at this weekend’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Cadillac debuted a new super coupe concept with big power and equally big proportions.
Despite being called the Elmiraj, you’re not seeing things, and this is in fact a rear-wheel drive grand touring two-door designed to take on the very best from Germany.
So exactly what’s under the hood? And will Cadillac actually build it? Watch our first look video below to find out.
Despite being called the Elmiraj, you’re not seeing things, and this is in fact a rear-wheel drive grand touring two-door designed to take on the very best from Germany.
So exactly what’s under the hood? And will Cadillac actually build it? Watch our first look video below to find out.
08-16-13, 08:17 AM
#9
Cadillac is really stepping up. A new Escalade is around the corner, and V and V-Sport are going to make another splash.
Lexus really needs to bring the NX, RC, and speculated LC/SC, as well as offer more F and F-Sport ASAP. The Luxury segment is exploding. Good for consumers
08-16-13, 08:56 AM
#10
this design is certainly an instant classic. Exterior and Interior flows beautifuly in a modern fashion while staying true to the familiar Cadillac look, very well done team Caddy
08-16-13, 04:21 PM
#11
I do hope Cadillac does build this baby. I am still waiting for the Sixteen. I do have to say, the new direction that Cadillac/GM has been going with is great.
Last edited by JessePS; 08-17-13 at 06:23 AM.
08-19-13, 09:28 AM
#15
Lexus Fanatic
Why not just bring back the El Dorado name? 
That's traditionally what large Cadillac coupes/convertibles (other than the 2-door Coupe de Ville) have been called
That's traditionally what large Cadillac coupes/convertibles (other than the 2-door Coupe de Ville) have been called