Is Buick Preparing For An Electric Crossover?

The Envision, Encore, and Enclave are Buick's SUVs available in North America, although none of them are totally electric. This might soon change, as the manufacturer has applied for a trademark for the Electra name in Canada, indicating that a production version of last year's completely electric concept could be on the way.

Last year at Shangai, the Buick Electra concept was presented. The prototype revived a brand that was popular in full-size luxury automobiles from 1959 through 1990. The new Electra, unlike its predecessors, has a sleek crossover-style profile that previews Buick's design and planning philosophy.

The Buick Electra concept featured an entirely electric engine and was based on GM's Ultium architecture. The dual electric engines in the concept produced 583 horsepower (435 kW / 589 PS), while the Ultium battery provided a range of more than 410 miles (660 km). 

The Lyriq's 100 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is good for a more reasonable 300 mile (483 km) electric range, might be used in the production version. Buick hasn't made any pronouncements about their new product strategy, thus we don't know whether or when their first completely electric SUV will be released.