Cadillac Secures Back to Back Victory as Elevated Velocity Takes Top Honors at EyesOn Design
The EyesOn Design panel, a collective of the industry’s most revered design chiefs and academic visionaries, has named the Cadillac Elevated Velocity as the best concept vehicle for 2026. This win marks a remarkable consecutive triumph for the Cadillac design team, who walked away with the same trophy just a year ago for their low slung Opulent Velocity hypercar.
The Elevated Velocity is a sophisticated 2+2 luxury crossover that masterfully bridges the gap between the racing pedigree of Cadillac’s V-Series and a bold vision for the future. The name itself serves as a dual manifesto. "Elevated" refers both to the vehicle’s commanding ride height and the heightened emotional state of its occupants, while "Velocity" promises uncompromised performance across any terrain, be it a smooth coastal highway or a rugged mountain trail.
Crafted under the brand's "Art of Exhilaration" philosophy, the concept offers a tantalizing preview of what to expect from the next generation of production models. The silhouette is defined by an elongated hood that pays homage to the elegant proportions found in the CELESTIQ and LYRIQ flagships. This grace is balanced by a formidable stance, courtesy of significant ground clearance and massive 24 inch wheels. Perhaps the most dramatic feature remains the expansive gullwing doors, which sweep upward to reveal a cabin defined by meticulous hand craftsmanship.
A New Standard for the Ultra Luxury Segment
Bryan Nesbitt, Global Vice President of Cadillac Design, noted that the concept represents a vision where the high seating position of an SUV no longer requires a sacrifice in the driving dynamics typical of the V-Series.
While Cadillac has already made strides in the electric performance space with the OPTIQ-V and LYRIQ-V, the Elevated Velocity signals an ambition to conquer an even more exclusive tier of the market. This concept was never just a styling exercise; it was designed to push boundaries and test the aesthetic elements that will eventually define the brand’s future ultra luxury electric portfolio.
