Cadillac Ciel (Estados Unidos da América, 2011)

It is described as an ‘open-air grand-touring car inspired by the natural beauty of the California coast.’ Admittedly this sounds like PR spiel but it certainly is striking.

The Ciel is a large four seat convertible with a hybrid 3.6 litre Direct Injection V6 engine. It is designed to be ideal for a cruise along Highway 1 from the Big Sur to Monterey. Having done this journey myself I can see why this car would make the ideal partner.

With 4 seats on hand Cadillac’s designers envisaged 2 couples travelling together. With no B pillar and Rolls Royce Phantom style suicide doors both couples should be able to enjoy the view.

Like a lot of modern concepts Cadillac has drawn inspiration from boat design. Interior design manager Gael Buzyn said: “There is authentic craftsmanship in the way the exterior and interior elements meld, much like a vintage wooden boat. It is romantic, not only in its form, but the materials – nothing smells as good as real wood and leather. It blends together for a rewarding feeling of uncompromising luxury.”

This luxury is embodied by the Italian Olive wood that lines the cabin, accented by leather tipped machined aluminium elements. The wind screen is made of polished aluminium and the car rides on 22” nickel plated aluminium wheels to finish off the effect.

The Ciel is also a large car, the wheelbase is 125”, about 12” longer that the CTS saloon car. This allowed the designers to create an individual ‘space’ for all 4 passengers that houses access to individual connectivity portals.