GM confirms return to Europe

General Motors is gearing up for its return to Europe with an EV lineup. The Cadillac Lyriq could be among the first to hit the road there, as the carmaker is preparing to kick off EV sales in Europe this autumn. But only in some countries.

GM European President Jaclyn McQuaid spoke to Automotive News Europe, confirming the rumours. Though she did not specify where exactly GM brands will offer their electric cars, insiders expect the first markets to be Nordic countries Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland.

It is not yet clear when exactly sales will start, but autumn is just around the corner. There is also no mention of whether or not (or when) GM’s electric cars will begin rolling to customers in other European countries.

GM has yet to publish a list of cars that will make it across the pond. However, according to the above-mentioned source, the Cadillac Lyriq will definitely make the cut. It is sold in the US for about 60,000 dollars (around 55,000 euros). It has a 100 kWh battery on board and is supposed to cover the equivalent of around 483 kilometres on one charge.

Inside EVs reckons that some smaller models could also meet demand in Europe, such as the Chevrolet Equinox EV, a compact crossover, and the mid-size Chevrolet Blazer EV. Both will launch in the US this year.

The question remains: will GM try and market its larger EVs in Europe, such as its electric pickup trucks? They would surely only appeal to a niche customer base. However, Ford just launched its F-150 Lightning in Norway, so there seems to be some interest in this type of vehicle.

GM has been preparing to come back to the European markets since 2021. The first step was taken in November 2022, when McQuaid was appointed President and CEO of GM Europe and set up her office in Zurich. The manufacturer had left Europe in 2017, when it sold Opel to PSA, which later became Stellantis. A return to the old continent could obviously help GM increase sales.

autonews.com (paywall) via insideevs.com