Cadillac takes a bold step into the electrification era today as it finally unveils the Lyriq show car, the brand's first all-electric vehicle. With the debut of the new EV originally planned for April 2 but then postponed due to the global pandemic, we've had to wait a bit longer to meet the crossover that will take on rivals like the Audi e-tron.

The Lyriq's highlights include a range of over 300 miles, the latest implementation of Super Cruise, and a giant 33-inch LED screen that dwarfs even what's offered in a Tesla. As with any brand's first EV, the Lyriq needs to make a statement visually, which it does with its fastback-like, low roofline, its black crystal grille, and stylish signature LED lighting.

Riding on Cadillac's new modular EV platform, the brand says that the placement of the battery helps to ensure a low center of gravity and a near perfect 50/50 weight distribution. Cadillac didn't provide performance specifications, but did say that the Lyriq will have a drive motor powering the rear wheels, with a performance variant introducing a second motor in front and grippy all-wheel drive.

The new Ultium battery system generates 100 kWh of energy, with smarter packaging and a massive reduction in battery pack wiring compared to other current designs. Using DC fast charging, a charging rate of above 150 kW will be possible. Level 2 charging rates will reach up to 19 kW.

The interior is dominated by that 33-inch-diagonal advanced LED display that Cadillac claims has the highest pixel density in the industry, being able to display more than a billion colors.

An augmented reality head-up display, supervised remote parking, and the Super Cruise hands-free driver-assist system are further tech highlights. Cadillac has spent plenty of time fine-tuning the Lyriq's advanced road noise cancellation system. It uses a number of microphones and accelerometers to create a more serene cabin environment. A 19-speaker AKG Studio sound system will be fitted.

"Led by Lyriq, Cadillac will redefine American luxury over the next decade with a new portfolio of transformative EVs," explained executive vice president and president of GM North America, Steve Carlisle.

Jamie Brewer, Cadillac Lyriq chief engineer, added that "it is not only an exceptional EV, but first and foremost a Cadillac."

Well-positioned to eat into Audi and Tesla EV sales, Cadillac's first EV is expected to go into production late next year or early in 2022.