UK US
← Cadillac ELR · 2014-2016 · Delta II

Cadillac ELR Sole Generation

Voltec PHEV in a coupe body. $76k launch price killed it. ~3,000 ever sold.

Verdict
C
BHP
207-233 bhp
0–60
8.0 s
Top speed
106 mph
MPG
82.0 MPGe
Used
$13,000-$24,000

Voltec extended-range EV powertrain shared with Chevrolet Volt. 1.4L NA I4 range-extender, dual electric motors, 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. Original output 207 hp; facelift 2016 raised to 233 hp via revised motor calibration. EV-only range ~37 miles, total range with gas backup ~340 miles. 0-60 mph 7.8-8.0 seconds. Top speed limited to 106 mph (electric drive top speed). FWD only. CUE infotainment, magnetic ride control, full leather interior — the ELR was deliberately positioned as a luxury statement, with the Voltec drivetrain as the technology hook. Original list $75,995 versus the closely-related Volt at $34,995 — the price gap was the central issue. By 2016, dealer discounts of $15-20k were common to clear inventory. Production at Detroit-Hamtramck. Total US sales 2014: 1,310; 2015: 1,024; 2016: 467. Now firmly a cult curio — affordable used, but specialist Voltec service availability is shrinking.

Strengths

  • Distinctive styling — one of the prettiest Cadillac coupes ever
  • 37-mile EV range covers most commutes
  • Magnetic Ride Control standard
  • Production rarity (~3,000 ever)
  • Significant depreciation makes it cheap

Weaknesses

  • Voltec mechanicals shared with $35k Volt
  • FWD only
  • Slow by modern PHEV standards (8.0s 0-60)
  • Specialist Voltec service availability shrinking
  • Battery degradation over time (now 9-12 years old)

Notable tech

  • Voltec extended-range EV powertrain
  • 1.4L I4 range-extender + dual electric motors
  • 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery
  • Magnetic Ride Control standard
  • 37-mile EV-only range

Common issues

  • Battery degradation with age
  • Voltec-specific service required
  • Range-extender engine carbon build-up
  • CUE infotainment freezes
  • Charging port door motor failures

Used-market budget

$17,000

2014 cars $13-17k. 2015 cars $15-19k. 2016 facelift $18-24k. Battery health report from a Cadillac/Voltec specialist is essential at purchase.