Cadillac, a division of General Motors, has a long history of offering custom-built cars to its customers. In recent years, they have introduced special editions of their high-performance models, such as the CT4- and CT5-V Blackwing, to cater to enthusiasts looking for a unique driving experience. These limited-edition models were highly sought after, with only 250 units of each being produced.
To celebrate their 120th anniversary, Cadillac took customization to the next level with the introduction of the 2024 20th Anniversary Edition. This special edition allowed customers to choose a specific year to commemorate with their build, resulting in a truly personalized vehicle. The goal was to create a bespoke experience for Cadillac’s loyal customers, who were willing to invest in a one-of-a-kind car.
Building upon the success of their previous customizations, Cadillac decided to incorporate the wider range of options available for their electric flagship coupe, the Celestiq. This decision opened up a whole new level of customization possibilities for the 20th Anniversary Edition Blackwings. Customers were given the freedom to handpick various options and choose from a wider selection of colors, allowing them to create a truly unique vehicle that reflects their individual style and taste.
While the idea of offering such a high level of customization may seem overwhelming, Cadillac managed to streamline the process by utilizing existing GM paint codes. The bodies of these limited-edition Blackwings arrived at the Innovation Center already painted black. From there, they were meticulously sanded and re-painted in the customer’s desired finish. Each car was carefully inspected for any gaps or imperfections before being reassembled on a production line specifically dedicated to these special builds.
The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail required for these customizations is truly impressive. Plant Director Karsten Garbe revealed that the assembly of a showroom-spec CT5-V Blackwing typically takes between 40 and 50 labor hours. However, the process for the 20th Anniversary Edition Blackwings involves significantly more time and effort. The paint, hand-assembly, and validation process alone takes at least 4-5 times longer than a regular production model. This dedication to delivering a flawless product highlights Cadillac’s commitment to providing their customers with an exceptional driving experience.
The success of the 20th Anniversary Edition Blackwings demonstrates that Cadillac’s customers are eager for this level of customization, even at a premium price point. However, Cadillac is not stopping here. With the Celestiq serving as a testing ground for their customization capabilities, it is clear that they are looking to expand their offerings in the future. Garbe expressed a desire for a larger and busier team to handle the growing demand for custom-built vehicles.
Cadillac’s foray into bespoke automobiles showcases their ability to cater to the desires of their discerning clientele. By offering a range of options and allowing customers to create truly unique vehicles, Cadillac is elevating the ownership experience and further solidifying their position as a luxury brand. As customization becomes increasingly prevalent in the automotive industry, General Motors and Cadillac are at the forefront of this trend, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for personalized luxury vehicles.