Cadillac Sollei: We simply need this convertible

Almost two years ago, Cadillac introduced the Celestiq model, which opened a new chapter for the brand with its endless customization options. Now, with the Sollei concept, Cadillac is indicating that the Celestiq won't be the only one in its class.

Sollei, whose name combines the words “SOL” (sun) and “LEIsure” (holiday), recalls the elegant Ciel model from 2011, which never entered series production. The Sollei is not just a new design, but a continuation of the Celestiq story, as they share the same Ultium platform and similar cabin design.

The exterior of the Sollei is adorned with 1.73-metre-long doors, and the elegant line connects the familiar front headlights with new taillights that stretch across the entire rear of the car. Instead of conventional door handles, thin buttons are placed in the aluminum frame, giving the vehicle a clean and minimalist look.

The interior of the Sollei really shines with hand-cut and laid veneers and open pores. The seats are decorated with sun motifs in perforation, quilting and embroidery, and a pink iridescent pigment is added to the Nappa leather to create a colorful effect. Sollei is also the first Cadillac to use Fine Mycelium, a mushroom-based renewable material, which is used on the filler pads and door pockets.

In addition to the luxury interior, Sollei also includes a custom metal and leather case for four 3D-printed bird calls that fits in the rear console. Below that is an integrated drinks cooler with a glass door that can be opened with an electric switch.

For the Cadillac Sollei concept car, Cadillac has re-used the Manila Cream color they originally used on their cars in 1957 and 1958. The car features 23-inch aluminum wheels, while the convertible top features a fabric design, which designers previewed in some sketches.

Cadillac repeatedly points out that the Sollei is only a concept vehicle, but it shares the cabin, front end and platform with the Celestiq model. It even features a 55-inch display that spans the entire dashboard.

John Roth, vice president of Cadillac, said, "Sollei allows the creative individuals within the Cadillac organization to express their creativity, and I think they have done a great job of expressing what a 2+2 convertible could look like."

Cadillac hasn't offered a convertible in 15 years, since the XLR model, and almost 50 years since the last El Dorado convertible. A few years ago, their dealers expressed interest in adding a convertible to the lineup, which would make Cadillac stand out in a luxury segment currently dominated by crossovers and SUVs.

Conclusion: Cadillac Sollei is a great example of how a luxury car brand can combine tradition with innovation and creativity. Sollei is not just a concept, but a look into the future that promises luxury, sustainability and superior design. If Cadillac wants to continue the "Standard of the World" tradition, offering a stunning, custom-built convertible will certainly be a step in the right direction. The price for the production version is not yet known, but with all these luxury accessories, it is clear that the Sollei will be aimed at the most demanding customers.