GM's Electric Crossovers Make a Comeback in Europe

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【Summary】GM has confirmed its return to the European market by taking orders for the Cadillac Lyriq crossover in Switzerland. The company plans to expand Cadillac EV sales to France and Sweden before entering other European countries. However, the European Union's subsidy probe on Chinese EVs may pose a challenge for the Lyriq, which is manufactured in the US and China.

FutureCar Staff Oct 08, 2023 4:17 PM PT

GM's Electric Crossovers Make a Comeback in Europe

In 2017, General Motors sold Opel and Vauxhall to Frances PSA Group — which later merged with Fiat Chrysler to form Stellantis — essentially ending its involvement with the European market. However, the company has announced its plans to make a comeback in 2023, and this is now happening in Switzerland.

The American automaker has officially confirmed that it is now accepting orders for the battery-powered Cadillac Lyriq crossover, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2024. However, Switzerland is just the beginning. If all goes well, GM intends to expand the sales of Cadillac EVs to France and Sweden before deciding on the next country to focus on.

Ultimately, Cadillac aims to establish a presence in at least five European countries within the next few years.

With Europe having some of the highest adoption rates of electric vehicles, General Motors is undoubtedly considering its potential in the market. Chinese EVs have already started gaining popularity in Europe, but the European Union has initiated a subsidy investigation on all models originating from China, including those with domestic brands. This could potentially pose challenges for the Lyriq, as it is manufactured in both Spring Hill, Tennessee, and Shanghai, China.