[Altivec]

Since the 1.5 second reduction in 0 to 60 performance to the 2016 ELR is software based, does anybody know if they will provide this update to 2014 ELR's. Tesla owners have been getting software updates that improve their cars regularly so I would expect that Cadillac (GM's Premium brand) will be following suit on one of their most expensive cars. If they don't, my dealer has misrepresented what owning a Cadillac means and this will be my first and last GM vehicle.

 

[Blastphemy]

No, Cadillac won't.

Those promises of "always keeping C.U.E. current" were outright lies (although C.U.E. did receive a single update in March 2013).

If Cadillac won't even honor its promises about the Infotainment software, there's no chance of getting an even more complicated firmware update for improving acceleration.

Anyway, you'd need a hardware update to the 2014 ELR to get that speed improvement because the 2014 has a 16.5 kWh battery and the 2016 has a 17.1 kWh battery, among other differences. Not to mention the weight of the 2016 ELR is different than the 2014. And the only way the 2016 acheives that 6.4 second 0-60 time is by using a modified Sport mode that forces the engine to assist. Otherwise, acceleration is 8 seconds or worse.

 

[Altivec]

Although, I understand there are some hardware tweaks to the 2016, from what I've read, most of the 1.5 second gain is just from software. Both the electric motors and gas engine are the same as the 2014 and the larger battery deals more with range than performance.

I Just got my ELR a couple of months ago so I am not aware of their past history. What I do know is that as these cars become more technology oriented, service and support will be the key to their survival. Even my $200 phone gets updates for a couple of years, I expect a lot more out of a $75000+ car. As I mentioned, other manufactures such as Tesla get this. Ive seen numerous software updates that shaved tenth of seconds off there already purchased customers cars. This is my test to see if cadillac is going to swim or sink. It would be foolish for me to consider a Cadillac in the future if they ignore their customers while their competition is not. I hope you're wrong and that I do see some sort of firmware update on this car, even if its not a 1.5 second improvement.

 

[ccclarke]

There's a huge profit incentive to upgrading millions of smart phones than a couple of thousand ELRs (and I'm being generous here.) The more capable the phone is, the more apps you'll might purchase to take advantage of the upgraded functionality.

Your observation is a valid concern for not just the ELR, but any Cadillac with software-configurable dash displays and CUE. And just like a smart phone, a well supported software path that adds new functionality to the ELR could help the vehicle be more attractive to the types of tech-savy buyers GM is supposed to be targeting. Sadly, Cadillac has completely missed a terrific opportunity to build excitement into their entire line of vehicles that use software-configurable hardware, and the disappointment echoes from far too many posts on this site. GM would have been better served to have collaborated with a company like Apple to design the driver-vehicle interface, with regular functionality upgrades performed via owners synced Wi-Fi connections at no charge. Happy owners become loyal owners, and loyal owners become word-of-mouth spokesman for the brand.

I would hope a performance-enhancing software upgrade becomes available to the ELR, but if past history is any indicator . . . . don't hold your breath.

Unrealistic pricing and a few disappointing issues aside, the ELR is still a nice vehicle. ELR has so much untapped potential for software-based, user-configurable, customized enhancements. It's a shame that Cadillac seemingly ignores what could really elevate the car (and brand) in the eyes of current owners and potential buyers. Their lack of meaningful communication to the public gives the impression their "vision" comes down to winging it to see what works, rather than Daring Greatly to lead the way.

CC

 

[Dickee]

I logged in today specifically to ask the question being discussed. I just test drove a Tesla P85D two days ago and actually said a bad word out of shock when I put the accelerator down. It is an absolute marvel! My XTS VSport with its 410 HP is a dog by comparison. (However the interior and comfort of the XTS is so much nicer...) Later that day, I was driving my ELR and floored it just for fun and had to tell my wife that I just floored it. She didn't notice.

I would be willing to sacrifice some efficiency for more torque in my ELR. Also, I'd be willing to pay Caddy for the update, although it ought to be free and already announced that it's coming. The Tesla 85D went from 5.2 to 4.4 in its 0-60 time through an update done at night over their 3G connection. I'd be happy with a USB on ELR.

I'm gonna stick with my Caddies for now but the Tesla could replace both my XTS and the ELR (to be fair, the combined price of the XTS and ELR is about what the P85D costs...). I just hope Caddy doesn't push me out the door by being unresponsive... I'm on my 8th Caddy now an I'd like to stay with Caddy but they need to be responsive to what's being written here just as Tesla is...
Dickee

 

[Blastphemy]

What incentive could Cadillac possibly have to give such an update to a 2014 owner? Then no one would buy the 2016 model! Everyone would go buy a 2014 ELR for $25-35k off and then get the software update.

We can't even get C.U.E. bug fixes out of Cadillac, let alone major updates that would increase acceleration. So don't hold your breath.

 

[Altivec]

Really? What incentive would they have? How about making sure that the purchasers that bought one of their most expensive cars (in other words, there highest end market) will spend there money on another high end Cadillac next time. Do you honestly think that 2014 ELR owners are going to buy a 2016 that looks identical to the one they have except for the grill. If you agree, that current ELR owners won't be the ones buying the 2016, they have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain by offering the update. They are also trying their best to get rid of 2014 inventory, if a software update which they already spent there time and money developing is all it would take to clear out 2014's, I'm sure they wouldn't be that disappointed if everyone rushed out and bought one.

As Dickee mentioned. I as well as anyone that I show my ELR too absolutely love the look and interior detail of this car. The only thing lacking with the exception of some minor quirks (rear camera) is acceleration. the 1.5 second improvement is not mind blowing but it would at least put the car in an acceptable range rather than the embarrassing state it is in now. Seeing tesla owners getting free software updates is like putting salt in my wounds. Its about time Cadillac steps up and makes me feel like I didn't make a huge mistake. The competition is clearly stepping up their game and I will be moving along with them if Cadillac doesn't even try to match that level of service and support.

 

[dengland]

Their lack of meaningful communication to the public gives the impression their "vision" comes down to winging it to see what works, rather than Daring Greatly to lead the way.
CC

Nice job with the tie to advertising campaign

 

[Blastphemy]

Really? What incentive would they have? How about making sure that the purchasers that bought one of their most expensive cars (in other words, their highest-end market) will spend there money on another high end Cadillac next time. Do you honestly think that 2014 ELR owners are going to buy a 2016 that looks identical to the one they have except for the grill. If you agree, that current ELR owners won't be the ones buying the 2016, they have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain by offering the update. They are also trying their best to get rid of 2014 inventory, if a software update which they already spent there time and money developing is all it would take to clear out 2014's, I'm sure they wouldn't be that disappointed if everyone rushed out and bought one.

As Dickee mentioned. I as well as anyone that I show my ELR too absolutely love the look and interior detail of this car. The only thing lacking with the exception of some minor quirks (rear camera) is acceleration. the 1.5 second improvement is not mind blowing but it would at least put the car in an acceptable range rather than the embarrassing state it is in now. Seeing tesla owners getting free software updates is like putting salt in my wounds. Its about time Cadillac steps up and makes me feel like I didn't make a huge mistake. The competition is clearly stepping up their game and I will be moving along with them if Cadillac doesn't even try to match that level of service and support.

You're preaching to the choir, Altivec. I agree with everything you say. But Cadillac is going to disappoint you if you're expecting any improvements for the 2014 ELR.

You are correct that many 2014 ELR owners won't trade in their 2014 for a 2016. But there are definitely a few who will, and the only way to assure that is to keep the 2014 the way it is. Also, new customers would rather buy a 2014 ELR at 40% off and then get a software update to make it a 2016 rather than buying a 2016 at MSRP, and Cadillac wouldn't want that to happen. So no update for the 2014.

Believe me, I wish Cadillac was more responsive to existing owners' concerns and desires. But once Cadillac sells you the car, that's the last you'll hear from them short of a government mandated recall. Cadillac isn't Tesla, which is a real shame.

 

[Snotty Boom Body]

What makes you think that the 16 will sell at msrp ?
I could see a few buyers at first but I think they will be discounted close to the 14 price soon enough. I can wait till then.
I think (as has been posted many times) that the people have spoken to what the price Should be and that's where it will be again, software updates or not.
.

 

[67eldo]

What makes you think that the 16 will sell at msrp ?
I could see a few buyers at first but I think they will be discounted close to the 14 price soon enough. I can wait till then.
I think (as has been posted many times) that the people have spoken to what the price Should be and that's where it will be again, software updates or not.
.

Personally, I don't think you'll see nearly as many 16s sitting on lots as the 14s. Most likely if you want one you'll have to order it. Selection on lots will be minimal. Managing partner of one Cadillac dealer I talked to indicated essentially that. He was not too happy the way the 14s were priced and he doesnt think the lower 16 price is enough. Very tough time getting rid of the 14s he had. Wouldn't think it would make sense for him to repeat the process.

 

[hotspur]

Personally, I don't think you'll see nearly as many 16s sitting on lots as the 14s.
Most likely if you want one you'll have to order it. Selection on lots will be minimal. Managing partner of one
Cadillac dealer I talked to indicated essentially that. He was not too happy the way the 14s were priced
and he doesnt think the lower 16 price is enough. Very tough time getting rid of the 14s he had.
Wouldn't think it would make sense for him to repeat the process.

Same story I got from a dealer that had initially ordered 11 or 12 2014 ELRs

 

[Snotty Boom Body]

I think Cadillac is going to build an initial 1,000 to 2,000 cars like last time and they are going to have to go somewhere, GM will probably tell the dealers if they want more of the good selling vehicles they will have to take a couple of ELR's too.
Like I said I'm in no rush and will wait and see how it plays out.
If they put the new volt2 batteries in the car for an extra 10 miles or so on electric they might of had a better chance of getting the 65k but not now.

 

[FloridaMatt]

I think Cadillac is going to build an initial 1,000 to 2,000 cars like last time and they are going to have to go somewhere, GM will probably tell the dealers if they want more of the good selling vehicles they will have to take a couple of ELR's too.

Last time they built a couple thousand because dealers ordered them. With dealers sitting on an oversupply of everything except Escalades, trying to force ELRs on unwilling dealers would be a very bad move. Could result in bad blood, heavy lawyering and the kind of PR Cadillac does not need while pushing the CT6.

 

[67eldo]

I agree. SRX and Escalade Cadillacs best sellers. ATS not selling well. Heck, one dealer was offering free ATS if you took ELR at full price. Kinda balances out but the dealer would get rid of an ATS . If Cadillac held the dealers hostage with the ELR and held back SRX or Escalade supplies to them it would be suicide. They have a big enough gamble with the new CT6, they don't need to rock this boat anymore then they have to. I don't think dealers are going to stick their necks out on the 16s until they are convinced there is the interest in the new ELR to warrant putting them on the lots. Enough of those dealers were initially bamboozled by Cadillac to " stock up " on the 14s. You saw the result of that.

 

[Altivec]

You're preaching to the choir, Altivec. I agree with everything you say. But Cadillac is going to disappoint you if you're expecting any improvements for the 2014 ELR.

You are correct that many 2014 ELR owners won't trade in their 2014 for a 2016. But there are definitely a few who will, and the only way to assure that is to keep the 2014 the way it is. Also, new customers would rather buy a 2014 ELR at 40% off and then get a software update to make it a 2016 rather than buying a 2016 at MSRP, and Cadillac wouldn't want that to happen. So no update for the 2014.

Believe me, I wish Cadillac was more responsive to existing owners' concerns and desires. But once Cadillac sells you the car, that's the last you'll hear from them short of a government mandated recall. Cadillac isn't Tesla, which is a real shame.

If what everyone is saying is true, that Cadillac does not care about their customer base, then you're right, I will be very disappointed.

They can run their company anyway they want. I am loving my new ELR and as far as I am concerned they have completed their obligations. However, there is a difference between completing obligations and exceeding them. What may work for a mid or low level brand does not work for high end brands. I expect to feel special during my entire ownership of that vehicle. If my special feeling ends at the handover of the keys, those will be the last keys I get from them. As has been stated throughout this thread, other manufactures are exceeding after sales support and creating loyal customers. That is how you build a brand and I too will be moving on to be one of those customers if Cadillac is as bad as everyone says they are. A software update for my ELR is not something that I consider to be optional. This one thing will be the determining factor of whether or not my next vehicle will be a Cadillac.

 

[dengland]

If my special feeling ends at the handover of the keys, those will be the last keys I get from them.

Keys... What are these keys that you speak of? :>)

I guess we are just a victim of the other side of the coin. We feel very unique driving a car that has a production run of ~2000, yet since there are only 2000 us, we are the land of misfit toys when it comes to enough of a population to worry about.

That is Unlike my RAM UCONNECT, where there are millions suffering through what seems like very minor fixes that don't get addressed. Hell, I think I see 500 RAMs driving to work each morning.

 

[Blastphemy]

If what everyone is saying is true, that Cadillac does not care about their customer base, then you're right, I will be very disappointed.

I have to believe that at some level Cadillac cares about its customers, but the suits are still living in the 1980s where once a car was released, that was it. Once GM started putting computers in cars, that mindset should have changed to the one that Tesla embraced: update the software on a regular basis to make it better and squash bugs. Just like everyone's desktop, Android, iPhone, iPad, Surface Pro, and iWatch gets regular updates. Heck, even my Blu-ray player, television, amplifier, oven, security system, and A/C controller needs the occasional firmware/software update. But that's still not how GM thinks, despite seeing how high customer satisfaction is over at Tesla because of those regular updates.

This link may be very disappointing for you:
http://gmauthority.com/blog/2015/05...of-being-retrofitted-with-2016-my-cue-update/

 

[hotspur]

Blastphemy, why don't you take a hint from what smart dealers are doing? Sell your ELR, take the hit, and leave the rest of us alone. You have become an annoying, broken record, and no one here really cares what you have to say anymore. We've heard it dozens of times already and it just causes rolled eyes.

 

[Blastphemy]

So you joined the forum barely two weeks ago, this is only your second post, and you're already annoyed?

That's pretty funny (and I think a new record for me)!

:crybaby: :crybaby: :crybaby: :crybaby:

Perhaps you have something useful to contribute to this forum other than complaining about complaints?