Buick Shows Off Hot New Sedan and Wagon Concepts—Just Build ’Em, Okay?
The Electra-L and Electra-LT concepts would make great U.S. models, but will they come here?
Buick has unveiled two all-electric Electra concepts in China, one a sedan and one—yes!—a wagon.
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The Electra-L is the former and the Electra-LT the latter, and both draw direct stylistic heritage from 2022’s Wildcat concept, with the addition of a body side detail reminiscent of the Opel Insignia–based 2011–2017 Regal four-door. Buick gives an overall length of 198.3 inches, or some six inches longer than GM’s Chevrolet Blazer EV, and a 118.1-inch wheelbase for the LT.
Electra is Buick’s sub-brand for its EVs; a number of them have been unveiled overseas, but we’re still waiting for the first U.S.-spec model to appear. The Electra E5, an electrified Envista subcompact SUV, will be sold here and is already in production in China.
The new concepts feature sculpted glass taillights, aerodynamic wheels, power doors, approach and departure light shows, and a full-length electrochromic glass roof panel. The Electra-LT—we assume the T is for “Touring”—is fitted with an active air suspension that lifts it an additional 1.6 inches off the ground, as well as all-wheel drive for improved traction. The cars wear Buick’s latest tri-shield logo introduced last year.
Inside both models, purple, gray, and gold are used throughout to imply sunrise, and Buick teases multiple cockpit modes that can automatically adjust based on the light in the cabin, the driver’s health readings, and more. A hidden screen motors from the passenger side dash for individual entertainment; the infotainment can also support up to 7 connected devices.
Adaptive “zero-gravity” seats—Nissan might have something to say about that, as it has its own zero-gravity seats—read occupants’ pressure points to automatically adjust when needed, and they also fold flat with integrated leg rests. The overall aesthetic is simple, but nevertheless looks sumptuous, especially in back, a space more highly valued in China than America. Here, the Electra-L has an integrated induction surface to warm tea. In-cabin fragrances cycle automatically to mimic “the ritual of life.”
Finally, these Electras boast an augmented reality head-up display for messages, communication, and more. Voice recognition powers an infotainment system powered by AI to deliver a more natural experience, says Buick.
These Buicks use GM’s Ultium EV architecture. Output at the rear axle is 342 horsepower—no word on front motor capabilities—and claimed range using Chinese-market testing protocols stands at a maximum of 435 miles. While we’d love more specs and the range would no doubt be lower given the U.S. EPA’s more pessimistic test cycle, seeing these Buicks hit the States (and to have another Buick wagon to choose from since the death of the Regal TourX after the 2020 model year) would be great. Given Buick’s all-SUV American lineup, the odds are long, however. Too bad.
Erik Johnson fell in love with cars before he could talk, carrying that passion through graduation from the University of Michigan. He's led digital content for Automobile and Car and Driver, and now oversees print and digital content for MotorTrend. He still pinches himself every day.
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