2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ VIN 001 to be auctioned for charity

Reservations for Cadillac's highly anticipated 2025 Escalade IQ full-size SUV are already available. However, those wishing to purchase the first example off the line, one with a VIN ending in 001, will have to bid at an upcoming auction.

Cadillac announced Thursday that the first retail Escalade IQ will be auctioned for charity. The auction will take place at Barrett-Jackson's auction in Scottsdale on October 10-13, with all proceeds going to the Detroit Children's Fund, an organization that supports children's education.

In announcing the sale, Cadillac also stated that it has increased the range estimate for the Escalade IQ by 10 miles to 460 miles; EPA estimates will be released at a later date.

The electric SUV is based on General Motors' Ultium platform and battery technology set. It has a battery capacity of over 200 kwh (expected to be about 205 kwh) and is capable of up to 350 kw of DC fast charging. Dual-motor all-wheel drive is standard, with peak output of 680 hp in Normal mode and 750 hp in Velocity Max. The Escalade IQ will also feature a crab-walking version of the GMC Hummer EV named the Cadillac Arrival.

Pricing for the 2025 Escalade IQ starts at $129,095 including a $1,395 destination charge; the VIN 001 will likely command a large premium given its collectible nature and the tax write-off available to buyers at the charity auction

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Deliveries of the Escalade IQ were scheduled to begin in the summer but have been pushed back to late 2024. Cadillac also plans to launch a long-wheelbase Escalade IQL. Prototypes are being tested, but no date has been announced.

Production takes place at GM's Factory Zero plant in Detroit, where the Hummer EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and GMC Sierra EV twins are built.