2016 Cadillac CT6 Plug-In: Luxury with a Hybrid Twist [Preview]

2016 Cadillac CT6 Plug In

Quick on the heels of the debut of the 2016 Cadillac CT6 at the 2015 New York Auto Show, Cadillac has announced it will add another drive train to its newest flagship – a Plug-In Hybrid Electric.

With an estimated 335 hp on tap and 432 lb/ft of torque, the PHEV is expected to have more than double the fuel economy of the gasoline powered engines.

The CT6 will utilize all-electric power for tottling around town, but will bring combined power from the gasoline engine and battery at higher speeds or when quick acceleration is called for.

An 18.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located between the rear seat and the trunk. No word on the final weight of the car, but the traditional CT6 is relatively light for its size. The addition of batteries will more than likely bring the weight more in line with the competitors.

The battery system can be charged using a 120V or 240V charger. Range estimates will be provided closer to U.S. launch of the PHEV option.

The CT6 PHEV will have an all-new rear wheel electric variable transmission (EVT). Combined with exclusively designed motors, Cadillac promises smooth and spirited acceleration.

2016 Cadillac CT6 Plug In

The two-motor EVT also uses three planetary gears and is mated to a 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder engine with spark-ignited direct injection and variable valve technology. The use of a two-motor system provides smooth and seamless power through the entire driving range.

Other tricks include regenerative braking and Regen-on-Demand. This system allows the driver to temporarily regenerate energy from vehicle momentum into electricity and store in the battery pack for later use.

Cadillac claims that Regen-on-Demand supports a more engaging driving experience by slowing the vehicle when entering a turn to better position it on the exit, much like downshifting with a manual transmission. Regen-on-Demand is engaged via steering-wheel paddles adapted from traditional performance cars.

Regen-on-Demand seems like a key feature in getting the enthusiast market into a hybrid. It will be interesting to see how it behaves in real-life driving situations.

Additionally, the CT6 PHEV will have three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Hold. Normal is designed for your everyday driving, maximizing the EV range and fuel economy. Sport gives drivers a more aggressive ride with heavier steering. Hold allows owners to reserve the remaining battery charge of the CT6 PHEV for later. Essentially, drivers can save their battery juice for city driving, where the CT6 EV mode operates most efficiently.

Check out this Everything You Ever Wanted to Know video about the traditionally powered 2016 Cadillac CT6 from the New York Auto Show.

emme hall tflcar Emme is a driver, reviewer, rabble rouser, and Gazelle who can be found online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and either one of her blogs.