In the automotive realm, Buick’s venture into bold design with the Wildcat EV concept garnered attention last year. Drawing inspiration from iconic models such as the original Wildcat and Riviera, the 2+2 coupe introduced a new design language for Buick. Though the Wildcat EV remains unlikely to see production, it recently made a splash in a video shared on the General Motors Design Instagram account.
The video sequence unfolds with a mysterious ambiance, as a person walks through a dimly lit garage flanked by two rows of Buick vehicles concealed in shadows. Suddenly, the spotlight shifts to a vivid orange spectacle – the Wildcat EV. While reminiscent of the earlier metallic gray concept, astute observers will note subtle differentiations in wheel design and the absence of chrome embellishments around the windows. The front fascia takes a departure, swathed in blackout tones instead of the customary chrome slats. Yet, the most notable alteration presents itself at the rear – the taillights, which typically ascend along the sides of the rear window, have been reimagined. On the orange Wildcat, these lights nestle atop the fenders, tracing the outline of the rear spoiler.
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As the narrative progresses, the Wildcat EV conquers the open road, tracing its course along a scenic two-lane highway, mirroring the tranquil stretch of water alongside. Captured from varying angles, the low-slung coupe traverses hills, navigates through canyons, and glides by a picturesque waterfall. Notably, the video, as disclosed by General Motors Design on Instagram, serves as an insider’s view – an animation devised to pitch the audacious Wildcat project to the leadership at GM.
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Though the coupe’s production destiny was never sealed, its design ethos has progressively infiltrated Buick’s product lineup. Evident in the 2024 Envista, this distinct style imparts the compact crossover with an identity poised to rival competitors such as the Mazda CX-30 and Volkswagen Taos within the same category. Additionally, this aesthetic finds its way onto the Envision, strategically positioned to contend with established names like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. Noteworthy is the across-the-board transformation of Buick’s emblem, marked by a streamlined design that horizontally aligns the tri-shields, signifying a universal shift.
Despite the departure of sedans like the Regal and LaCrosse from the domestic market in 2020, these models find continued vitality in China. Their recent rejuvenation incorporates updated interiors and styling elements resonating with the distinctive design cues hailing from the Wildcat EV. Buick’s venture into progressive design has thus catalyzed an intriguing journey – one that navigates from imaginative concepts to tangible influences across the brand’s evolving product spectrum.
