Buick has long been a popular brand in China, where it has an entirely different image than in the west. The brand’s latest concept embraces 1950s jet-age glamour, with tomorrow’s electric technology.
The Electra Orbit concept was crafted by GM’s Shanghai design studio, and is a fastback wagon that’s both theatrical and a vision for the future.
Bold Retro-Futurism
With sweeping curves reminiscent of Motorama-era show cars, the Electra Orbit is an homage to its mid-century predecessors. It’s recharged for the 21st century, with sweeping proportions, stretching nearly 19 feet long.
The front end dips low into a sleek, aerodynamic posture, while split, deployable wings ascend from the rear to manage airflow and stability, blurring the line between car and spacecraft.
Video shows six “hockey stick” LED headlights and a glowing Buick emblem perched along the center spine of the hood.
The team in China worked to capture the magic of the Jet-age, while pushing the car’s lines keenly into the 21st century.
Designers working on the clay model of the Orbit concept
Scissor Doors
Four dramatic scissor-style doors swing upward in a display of theatrical flair, while gargantuan 24-inch dish wheels nestle into pronounced fenders, further evoking visions of sci-fi prototypes.
Inside, the Electra Orbit seats four in a 2+2 layout centered around a “wormhole-inspired” AI interface.
A sweeping ring-shaped display arcs across the dashboard, with the only physical control being a crystal ball in the center console, a symbol of intuitive futurism.
More Than Makeup
Though it rides on GM’s dedicated EV platform, Cadillac offers no specs or production plans, this is a pure design exercise, a bold narrative of what Buick could become.
According to Stuart Norris, GM China’s VP of Design, the Electra Orbit is “a bold exploration of what Buick can be when we blend heritage inspiration with visionary innovation.”
As Buick in China features an entirely different lineup than that in North America, we don’t imagine we’ll be seeing anything like the Electra Orbit anytime soon. Nevertheless, the concept feels like a purposeful step toward the future.
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