In an era defined by technological advancements and the constant pursuit of enhanced performance, Cadillac has taken a significant step forward with the introduction of the Velocity Package for its 2024 Lyriq AWD model. This announcement marks yet another testament to our increasingly upgradable society, where innovation knows no bounds.
For a modest cost of $1,200, plus applicable taxes, Lyriq AWD owners can now access a software upgrade that unleashes an additional 74 pound-feet of torque from the vehicle’s two electric motors. This boost transforms the Lyriq’s power output, elevating it from 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque to an impressive 524 lb-ft in a new Velocity mode setting, which replaces the Lyriq’s standard Sport mode. As a result, Cadillac claims a remarkable 0.3-second reduction in the Lyriq AWD’s 0-60 mph acceleration time, now clocking in at just 4.4 seconds.
The process to attain this newfound velocity is simple and user-friendly. Owners can conveniently find the upgrade option within the Lyriq’s infotainment system, located among the Drive Modes pages. With a few clicks and button presses, the enhanced torque becomes readily available, offering a thrilling driving experience.
One notable aspect of Cadillac’s approach is their consumer-friendly policy. The $1,200 investment is a one-time fee, ensuring that Lyriq AWD owners won’t face recurring charges for the enhancement. Furthermore, Cadillac goes the extra mile by providing a seven-day consideration window. Within this timeframe, should an owner be dissatisfied with the upgrade, they can “return” the software and receive a full refund. This commitment to customer satisfaction sets a positive precedent in the automotive industry.
Interestingly, Cadillac isn’t the only automaker exploring the realm of performance software upgrades. Polestar, a Swedish electric vehicle manufacturer, offers a similar option for its Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 models, albeit with a three-day return window and a $1,195 fee. Meanwhile, some German automakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW are delving into subscription-based services, creating a new landscape where owners can pay for performance enhancements over time.
The broader automotive landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by the demand for customization and enhanced performance. Predictions from Fortune Business Insights suggest that the global vehicle subscription market will grow exponentially in the coming years, from $3.38 billion in 2022 to a staggering $172.5 billion by 2029. This trajectory underscores the transformative impact of technology on the automotive industry, ushering in an era of autonomous and digitally enhanced vehicles.
One intriguing aspect that remains uncertain is whether Cadillac will extend a similar offer to the single-motor Lyriq, which boasts 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, questions linger about the Lyriq badging, specifically the emblem on the tailgate denoting torque figures in Newton-meters. In the United States, the Lyriq AWD bears a “600E4” badge. With the Velocity Package upgrade, a more appropriate “700E4” badge would reflect the increased torque. Enthusiastic owners seeking precise authenticity can source the correct marker from the Chinese market, where the Lyriq AWD is sold with 524 lb-ft. of torque as standard.
