2016 Cadillac CT6 PHEV debuts in Shanghai and is U.S. bound

Formally confirming an eco-oriented expansion of its upcoming flagship sedan, the 2016 Cadillac CT6 PHEV variant made its global debut in Shanghai. Like its gasoline-only kin, this plug-in hybrid features a rear-drive configuration. But the PHEV replaces the CT6’s standard issue 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with a high-tech 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder supplemented by a pair of electric motor/generator units in a system that collectively develops a combined 335 horsepower and 432 lb-ft of peak torque. Cadillac says this sophisticated plug-in setup was designed to let the car operate primarily in EV mode during city driving but utilize both power sources under higher speed and greater load situations. It also projects this optional drivetrain will deliver EPA numbers that are at least twice those of any conventional CT6 powertrain package. 

Smooth, responsive and efficient 

While the automaker has yet to reveal a number of pertinent details about the CT6 PHEV, it has confirmed that the car’s drive system also introduces a new electric variable transmission (EVT) and that the two motors it contains are energized by a thermally controlled 18.4kWh battery pack. Located between the rear seat and the trunk area, it shares basic technology with the pack used in the revamped 2016 Cadillac ELR model and Chevy Volt. Cadillac’s first-ever PHEV will offer three basic operating modes. Normal balances comfort and performance while maximizing EV range and fuel economy. Sport dials up aggressive throttle pedal mapping and stiffer steering response and Hold lets the driver select engine-only running to conserve battery charge for anticipated in-town operation. "The CT6 PHEV will deliver exceptional smooth, responsive acceleration that Cadillac and luxury sedan owners demand," said Travis Hester, Cadillac CT6 executive chief engineer. "We have managed to achieve superior drive quality when compared to our PHEV competitors due to our exclusively designed EVT."

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In addition to start/stop circuitry on its gasoline engine, the 2016 Cadillac CT6 PHEV has iBooster and Electronic Stability Programs that are specifically tailored to outperform traditional regenerative braking systems with respect to optimizing overall energy recovery efforts in a way that both reduces stopping distances and extends range. They are supplemented by an additional Regen on Demand mode also found on the new 2016 Chevy Volt. Engaged via paddles on the steering wheel, it further leverages vehicle momentum to generate more charge for the battery by cranking up the level of regenerative braking when the CT6 PHEV enters a corner. Although Cadillac quoted no performance stats at the reveal, it did state that the battery will be capable of delivering over 37 miles of pure EV driving range and that it can be recharged using either a standard 120V outlet or a dedicated 240V charging system. 

"The first-ever CT6 is a technological showcase throughout, making it an ideal platform for Cadillac to offer its first plug-in hybrid," said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. "In the CT6, Cadillac presents a new formula for prestige luxury. The advanced Plug-In Hybrid system is a key addition providing a combination of exceptional fuel economy, crisp acceleration and strong electric driving range." Expect to hear more details about the 2016 Cadillac CT6 PHEV in the coming months, including how much of a premium it will command over the price of a baseline CT6 model. 

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