Is General Motors Crafting a Rugged Electric SUV?

A new Buick electric SUV may be in the works following a new GM Design painting.
GM Design
A recent release from GM Design showcases a new painting by Geoffrey Richmond that hints at Buick’s upcoming flagship electric SUV. The drawing bears an uncanny resemblance to Kia’s EV9, boasting a robust, powerful stance, high clearance, and a spacious interior.
Although the powertrain of the upcoming vehicle is yet to be confirmed, Buick has committed to becoming an all-electric brand by 2030, which makes an electric SUV a likely possibility. While Buick has yet to launch an all-electric vehicle in the US, it has already introduced several EV models in China. Just last June (2023), the mid-level luxury brand launched the E4 electric-powered SUV in China, the second EV based on the Ultium platform after the larger E5.
Other Buick EVs
In China, Buick has unveiled the Electra E5, a large five-seat electric SUV that marks the start of a new chapter for the brand’s electric vehicle campaign in the ever-evolving EV market. This state-of-the-art vehicle is the first of a new generation of Buick EVs developed on the Ultium platform specifically for China. The Electra E5 showcases Buick’s all-new PURE design language and features the new Virtual Cockpit System, offering a spacious interior and premium sophistication. It also boasts advanced Super Cruise driver assist technology. The Electra E5 comes in five versions, including standard and long-range models, with prices ranging from 28,719 to 38,343 USD (plus destination fee).
For the first time, Buick is introducing the Avenir trim on a Buick EV, providing customers with a unique persona to match their preferences. The Avenir trim represents the epitome of Buick’s luxury. By the end of 2025, Buick plans to have five Ultium products in its lineup, covering MPVs, SUVs, and sedans in the mainstream EV segment.
Buick’s new E4 electric SUV follows the brand’s latest design language called “Pure Design,” showcased in the Electra-X concept. The SAIC-GM PATAC design team in Shanghai, responsible for GM’s design, had revealed that many design elements from the Electra-X concept would be applied in future models. The E4 electric SUV has a streamlined front design with a longer, fastback-shaped back end, featuring an ultra-long 116-inch wheelbase that resembles a coupe’s aspect ratio. The E4’s modern design is enhanced with an aerodynamic rear spoiler, suspended roof, slim LED lights, and hidden door handles. The sporty GS version offers a black crystal rhombic grille, a GS tungsten photo-plated trim, 20-inch flower wing drag wheels, penetrating streamer flying wing tail lights, and an exclusive night bronze interior.
The second Ultium-based EV by Buick includes a 30-inch curved 6K infotainment screen with 200 PPI pixel density and a next-gen auto cockpit platform equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip. The Buick Electra E4 electric SUV comes in dual-motor or single-motor editions. The single-motor edition has a 150 kW maximum output and is powered by a 65 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery that provides a CLTC cruising range of 329 miles.
NYE Automotive Group
The E4 electric SUV and E5 are hopefully soon coming to the United States, and we couldn’t be more excited. These vehicles have outstanding technology and amazing qualities, along with a desirable appearance. We are also eagerly anticipating the release of the new painting. You are welcome to visit NYE Automotive Group and explore our collection.