As anticipated by 3dpbm in July 2022, the Cadillac CELESTIQ, described by GM “as the most technologically advanced Cadillac ever”, features an impressive 115 3D printed parts in the production vehicle, demonstrating GM’s broadest use of this process. Additively manufactured parts include the steering wheel center, which is the largest metal part GM has printed in production, combining the show surface and the structural B-side of the part. Another 3D printed part is the seat belt adjustable guide loop, which is GM’s first safety-related 3D printed part.
Other 3D printed parts include: window switches, grab handles, console decor and structural pieces under the vehicle’s surface, which contribute to making this pioneering car one of the world’s first all-electric ultra-luxury sedans utilizing innovative technology in the service of personalized, handcrafted artistry. In particular, the steering wheel decor would be impossible to create with typical metal castings and CNC milling.
Interior view of Cadillac CELESTIQ showing the front 55-inch pillar-to-pillar screen.
In order to create the CELESTIQ, Cadillac has drawn from every era and element of its heritage to deliver the most advanced, most luxurious and one of the most important vehicles the brand has ever produced. This heritage culminated with the opening of GM’s Additive Industrialization Center, on the GM Global Technical Center campus in 2020, which enabled Cadillac to establish itself at the forefront of functional and aesthetic 3D printed components in the automotive industry. The Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V were GM’s first vehicles to benefit from additive manufacturing with parts including the shifter emblem, transmission components, and HVAC ducts.
In addition to extensive use of direct AM, the CELESTIQ underbody includes six large precision sand-cast aluminum components. Each casting reduces the part count by 30 to 40 components, compared to typical stamped construction. The benefits are a more efficient use of space, simplicity and improved structural rigidity. The CELESTIQ precision sand-casted content and processes are ideal for low-volume, handcrafted, bespoke vehicles.
Each CELESTIQ vehicle will also feature over 300 fabricated pieces throughout the body structure, chassis, interior and electrical components. This “Flex Fabrication” process utilizes metal sheets that can be folded and manipulated into the unique shapes required for the CELESTIQ design — a process more akin to metallic origami than traditional stamping.
Manufacturing on Demand
Rear 3/4 view of Cadillac CELESTIQ on a plateau overlooking mountains in the background.
“CELESTIQ is the purest expression of Cadillac, acknowledging our incredible history and driving us to a bolder and brighter future,” said Global Vice President of Cadillac Rory Harvey. “It is a completely bespoke work of automotive art, built around the most advanced and innovative technology that we have ever engineered into an automobile.”
The CELESTIQ story is built on legacy, with its design, cutting-edge technology, and personalized luxury rooted in Cadillac’s history of building handcrafted, iconic vehicles such as the 1933 V16 Aerodynamic Coupe and the 1957 Eldorado Brougham.
Each CELESTIQ is personally commissioned — no two will be alike. Clients will work directly with their selected dealer and Cadillac designers to realize their unique vision for the car, with unprecedented levels of personalization tailored to reflect the owner’s tastes.
Cadillac CELESTIQ hand-built plaque located on the driver’s side door sill.
This unique and individualized experience is augmented by Cadillac’s leadership in electrification, available hands-free driver assistance technology and connected services. CELESTIQ also sets the benchmark for handcrafted, multisensory and immersive EV luxury experiences.
“CELESTIQ is like no Cadillac before it and the client experience is equally exceptional,” said Harvey. “Each vehicle is a unique expression of its owner, leveraging leading-edge technologies that make the driving experience personal and rewarding.”
The new Cadillac CELESTIQ is expected to go into production in December 2023, with an expected MSRP to begin north of $300,000 and increase based on the level of personalization. Availability is by waitlist only.
You might also like:
Sauber Motorsport to become strategic partner of Audi F1: Finn Rausing, Sauber Holding AG Chairman of the Board of Directors: “Audi is the best strategic partner for the Sauber Group. It is clear that we share values and a vision, and we look forward to achieving our common goals in a strong and successful partnership.”
* This article is reprinted from 3D Printing Media Network. If you are involved in infringement, please contact us to delete it.
Author: Davide Sher
Leave A Comment