A Cadillac is sure to be in the picture when you envision a luxury vehicle. But what else is there to know about these incredible cars? Continue reading to discover four unbelievable facts about Cadillacs!
Cadillac Is a General Motors Company
Henry Leland founded Cadillac. He inspired everyone to continue Henry Ford’s business with an incredible idea when Ford’s second company fell apart. Leland’s idea was to combine the Ford Oldsmobile’s single-cylinder engine with Ford’s newest frame. Thus, Cadillac was born in 1902.
In 1909, General Motors purchased the Cadillac Automobile Company. It became GM’s first luxury vehicle brand! Today, General Motors owns GMC, Chevrolet, Buick, and Cadillac.
A French Adventurer Inspired the Cadillac Emblem
The Cadillac emblem is based on the coat of arms of Antoine de la Mothe, Sieur de Cadillac. He explored the “New World” (what is now the United States) and founded the city of Detroit as a key player in colonization. The coat of arms was used as Cadillac’s emblem as early as 1905. It consisted of elements including a crown, six birds representing noble lineage, the Laurel Wreath as a symbol of victory, and colourful stripes.
It Was the First Car Company to Use the Electric Starter
Cars weren’t always turned on by the simple push of a button or the turning of a key in the ignition. They required hand cranks to engage the pistons and make ignition possible. Clyde J. Coleman began the invention of the electric starter. Nevertheless, his original efforts were unusable. It wasn’t until 1903 that Coleman was issued a patent for the invention.
Coleman sold his patent to Delco Company, which General Motors eventually bought. Then, Charles Kettering created an improved version of Coleman’s design. The 1912 Cadillac model became the first vehicle to erase the need for a hand crank and utilize an electric starter motor instead. This invention changed the trajectory of modern vehicles.
The Current Best-Selling Vehicle Is the Cadillac XT5
The Cadillac Escalade maintained the title of the best-selling Cadillac for years. Recently, the Cadillac XT5 took over the number one spot. The luxury SUV includes a 360-degree camera, automatic parking, adaptive cruise control, and a lavish leather interior. As the years go on, the future models of the XT5 will continue to progress and retain their incredible sales.
These unbelievable facts about Cadillac aren’t the only things you should know. It’s possible to rent a luxury car for a special occasion! This luxury brand with a rich history doesn’t have to feel unattainable. Spend an extravagant night out with the ones you love while driving a lavish Cadillac.
Also, read: 20 Interesting Facts You Probably Don’t Know About Toyota