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Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government

Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government

The Advertiser21-07-2025
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced.
The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year.
Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works.
"First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert.
CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal.
ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV
"Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help."
Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy.
The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025.
The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas.
ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV
The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy.
However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here.
Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively.
"We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain."
ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker
Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029.
For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX.
The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted.
"I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added.
When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no".
MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers
MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed
MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV
MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV
MORE: Everything Subaru
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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Subsequently, reports have pointed to an entirely different flagship for the Lexus lineup: a supercar called the LFR, powered by a twin-turbo V8, based on Toyota's GT3 GR concept car and serving as a spiritual successor to the iconic LFA. This vehicle has been spied testing and, while Lexus Australia hasn't confirmed whether the car will wear the 'L' badge, it has said it's excited to see the product. To the end of June, Lexus has delivered 33 LCs in Australia this year – more than the LS sedan (6) and almost as many as the RZ electric SUV (34). While a low-volume proposition, the LC still outsells the rival BMW 8 Series (13) and Mercedes-AMG SL (14). Lexus has changed strategies with its flagship grand tourer before. Its first was the SC300/SC400 – a rebadged Toyota Soarer never sold here – which was more affordable than the LS and shared components with the Toyota Supra. 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The special-edition coupe is tuned to be sportier than the more comfort-focused convertible, and features a hollow rear aluminium suspension member that Lexus says improves grip and rigidity. Both body styles get one-piece moulded front bumper canards and unique 21-inch forged aluminium wheels. They also wear a fixed rear wing made from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic, while Lexus also says it has fitted a retuned limited-slip differential. The coupe is finished in matte Oboro Silver, while the convertible has Neutrino Grey paint and a Brown Silver roof. Inside, the two special-edition variants differ in colour again. The coupe has a black and white interior, while the convertible has a saddle tan and white cabin "inspired by the scene of melting snow as sunlight hits the remaining snow and reveals the earth". Both the coupe and convertible get exclusive embroidery on the passenger side of the dash, plus special scuff plates and Limited Edition centre console plaques. Both the coupe and convertible are priced in Japan at ¥17,800,000 (~A$183,000), whereas the standard LC500 coupe costs ¥14,100,000 (~A$145,000) and the convertible ¥15,550,000 (~A$160,000). No changes appear to have been made to the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine powering the Pinnacle specials. This engine produces 351kW of power and 540Nm of torque, and is mated exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The LC is the grandest of grand tourers in Lexus' 36-year history. It was first previewed by the LF-LC concept in 2012, and Lexus developed a new rear-wheel drive platform for it. The coupe entered production in 2017, with a convertible following in 2020, and continues to be offered with a choice of 5.0-litre V8 or 3.5-litre V6 hybrid powertrains (though the convertible is V8-only). In June, Japanese outlet Creative Trend reported the entire LC line would end production after the last IS500 sports sedan – the only other Lexus road car to share the 5.0-litre V8 engine – rolls off the line in November 2025. While the current LC could be on its way out, reports out of Japan suggest Lexus isn't withdrawing from the coupe segment. A Best Car Web report from June pointed to the LC being replaced along with the RC (which was axed here in 2021 but lives on overseas) by a vehicle derived from the next-generation Toyota Supra. There's been much speculation about the future of Lexus' flagship coupe. In 2021, Lexus appeared to tease a convertible resembling a next-generation LC (below, far left), while also revealing the Electrified Sport Concept (above, centre) that pointed to an electric successor. Subsequently, reports have pointed to an entirely different flagship for the Lexus lineup: a supercar called the LFR, powered by a twin-turbo V8, based on Toyota's GT3 GR concept car and serving as a spiritual successor to the iconic LFA. This vehicle has been spied testing and, while Lexus Australia hasn't confirmed whether the car will wear the 'L' badge, it has said it's excited to see the product. To the end of June, Lexus has delivered 33 LCs in Australia this year – more than the LS sedan (6) and almost as many as the RZ electric SUV (34). While a low-volume proposition, the LC still outsells the rival BMW 8 Series (13) and Mercedes-AMG SL (14). Lexus has changed strategies with its flagship grand tourer before. Its first was the SC300/SC400 – a rebadged Toyota Soarer never sold here – which was more affordable than the LS and shared components with the Toyota Supra. Produced from 1991 to 2000, it was replaced by the SC430 which was an even more comfort-focused model that was offered exclusively as a folding hardtop convertible. This exited production in 2010, leaving a gap of seven years before the LC entered production. Click an image to view the full gallery. MORE: Explore the Lexus LC showroom Content originally sourced from: The Lexus LC has received a special Pinnacle edition in Japan, which could signal the end of its flagship grand tourer after eight years in production. The name, after all, means the highest, most successful point, or the culmination. Just 100 examples each of the LC500 Pinnacle and LC500 Convertible Pinnacle will be offered in Japan, and there's no word yet on any Australian availability. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Lexus LC. Click here to get a great deal. The special-edition coupe is tuned to be sportier than the more comfort-focused convertible, and features a hollow rear aluminium suspension member that Lexus says improves grip and rigidity. Both body styles get one-piece moulded front bumper canards and unique 21-inch forged aluminium wheels. They also wear a fixed rear wing made from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic, while Lexus also says it has fitted a retuned limited-slip differential. The coupe is finished in matte Oboro Silver, while the convertible has Neutrino Grey paint and a Brown Silver roof. Inside, the two special-edition variants differ in colour again. The coupe has a black and white interior, while the convertible has a saddle tan and white cabin "inspired by the scene of melting snow as sunlight hits the remaining snow and reveals the earth". Both the coupe and convertible get exclusive embroidery on the passenger side of the dash, plus special scuff plates and Limited Edition centre console plaques. Both the coupe and convertible are priced in Japan at ¥17,800,000 (~A$183,000), whereas the standard LC500 coupe costs ¥14,100,000 (~A$145,000) and the convertible ¥15,550,000 (~A$160,000). No changes appear to have been made to the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine powering the Pinnacle specials. This engine produces 351kW of power and 540Nm of torque, and is mated exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The LC is the grandest of grand tourers in Lexus' 36-year history. It was first previewed by the LF-LC concept in 2012, and Lexus developed a new rear-wheel drive platform for it. The coupe entered production in 2017, with a convertible following in 2020, and continues to be offered with a choice of 5.0-litre V8 or 3.5-litre V6 hybrid powertrains (though the convertible is V8-only). In June, Japanese outlet Creative Trend reported the entire LC line would end production after the last IS500 sports sedan – the only other Lexus road car to share the 5.0-litre V8 engine – rolls off the line in November 2025. While the current LC could be on its way out, reports out of Japan suggest Lexus isn't withdrawing from the coupe segment. A Best Car Web report from June pointed to the LC being replaced along with the RC (which was axed here in 2021 but lives on overseas) by a vehicle derived from the next-generation Toyota Supra. There's been much speculation about the future of Lexus' flagship coupe. In 2021, Lexus appeared to tease a convertible resembling a next-generation LC (below, far left), while also revealing the Electrified Sport Concept (above, centre) that pointed to an electric successor. Subsequently, reports have pointed to an entirely different flagship for the Lexus lineup: a supercar called the LFR, powered by a twin-turbo V8, based on Toyota's GT3 GR concept car and serving as a spiritual successor to the iconic LFA. This vehicle has been spied testing and, while Lexus Australia hasn't confirmed whether the car will wear the 'L' badge, it has said it's excited to see the product. To the end of June, Lexus has delivered 33 LCs in Australia this year – more than the LS sedan (6) and almost as many as the RZ electric SUV (34). While a low-volume proposition, the LC still outsells the rival BMW 8 Series (13) and Mercedes-AMG SL (14). Lexus has changed strategies with its flagship grand tourer before. Its first was the SC300/SC400 – a rebadged Toyota Soarer never sold here – which was more affordable than the LS and shared components with the Toyota Supra. Produced from 1991 to 2000, it was replaced by the SC430 which was an even more comfort-focused model that was offered exclusively as a folding hardtop convertible. This exited production in 2010, leaving a gap of seven years before the LC entered production. Click an image to view the full gallery. MORE: Explore the Lexus LC showroom Content originally sourced from:

Cadillac won't ditch Apple CarPlay, Android Auto in Australia
Cadillac won't ditch Apple CarPlay, Android Auto in Australia

Perth Now

time2 hours ago

  • Perth Now

Cadillac won't ditch Apple CarPlay, Android Auto in Australia

Cadillac will not force buyers to go without a couple of increasingly popular features in Australia. Parent company General Motors sparked the ire of many consumers when it announced it wouldn't offer its latest generation of electric vehicles (EVs) with smartphone mirroring apps Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It pivoted away from these features despite their growing popularity and ubiquity in the new-car market – a 2024 McKinsey survey, for example, showed 30 per cent of global EV buyers consider the absence of these features a deal-breaker. However, this decision doesn't affect Australian buyers, who'll still have access to these while also gaining a suite of connected services. 'All Cadillac Lyriq, Lyriq-V, Vistiq and Optiq vehicles coming to Australia and New Zealand will offer Cadillac Connected Services as well as wireless smartphone projection, which is currently available in Lyriq models (i.e. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto),' said a GM spokesperson. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Cadillac announced last month it was rolling out Cadillac Connected Services in Australia, starting with what's currently its only model – the large Lyriq electric SUV – late in 2025. Buyers will get eight years of complimentary access. Customers who take delivery of a Lyriq prior to the launch of Cadillac Connected Services will be able to get them courtesy of a complimentary upgrade at a Cadillac Service location. This suite of technology includes mobile app connectivity, over-the-air update capability, and what the brand refers to as Connected Infotainment – essentially Cadillac-speak for the presence of Google built-in, featuring embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and Google Assistant, with more available to download via the Google Play Store. This also features smart routing. Google Maps will tell you what your battery percentage will be at the end of your journey, and suggest charging stops if necessary along your route. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Cadillac smartphone app will allow you to remotely check the vehicle's status including its location and charge level, and control the locks, alarm, lights, windows and air-conditioning. This kind of app-based connectivity has become extremely common in recent years in Australia after previously being the exclusive domain of brands like Tesla. In many cases, brands have finally rolled it out in Australia after having had it in markets like the US for several years already – Hyundai and Toyota being examples of this. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert One key piece of technology GM offers in North America but hasn't announced plans to roll out here is Super Cruise. This allows hands-free driving across over a million kilometres of roads on the continent. GM has said Australian legislation doesn't support the feature's use locally, and the cost to map a country is in the millions of dollars. Cadillac commenced local deliveries of the Lyriq earlier this year, and next year it'll be joined by the smaller Optiq and larger, three-row Vistiq crossover SUVs, plus a hot version called the Lyriq-V. It's continuing with its plans to be an electric-only brand in Australia, and has previously spoken of selling models in 'exclusive volumes'. It has just one Australian retail location for now, in Sydney, with another to open in Brisbane this year. MORE: Everything Cadillac

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