The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ stands as the beacon of electric vehicles in America, boasting a manufacturer-estimated range of 460 miles—making it the longest-range SUV on the market. Recent testing by Tom Moloughney, the knowledgeable host of the State of Charge YouTube channel—and a well-respected figure in the electric vehicle community—revealed that this impressive luxury machine can go even further. In an actual range test conducted at 70 mph, the Escalade IQ covered an astonishing 482 miles before rolling up to a charging station with just 1% battery left and two miles of range still registered.
Gone are the days when range anxiety made electric vehicle ownership a nail-biting experience. With nearly every new electric model launching with a minimum of 300 miles of range, it’s evident that manufacturers are finally addressing consumer concerns. The Cadillac Escalade IQ, with its decadent size and striking design, further pushes the envelope—showcasing a remarkable range that easily outpaces competitors like the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S.
When Moloughney tested the Escalade IQ, he meticulously maintained a speed of 70 mph on the New Jersey Turnpike. With the climate control set to a comfortable 70 degrees and the fan on low, he aimed to replicate a real-world driving scenario. However, as temperatures climbed into the eighties, he had to adjust the climate settings slightly. After approximately eight hours on the road, the SUV covered an impressive 482.2 miles while consuming 222.7 kilowatt-hours of energy. Remarkably, had he used only the energy necessary for propulsion rather than other functions, the Escalade could have nudged its range to nearly 500 miles.
Now, let’s be real—how often do you plan on driving almost 500 miles in one go? Unless you’re planning an epic road trip or a dramatic escape from a zombie apocalypse, such extensive driving in a single stretch might seem impractical. Still, having that kind of range capability does a lot to elevate the SUV’s appeal for those considering making the switch to electric.
Delving deeper into the Escalade IQ’s performance reveals both impressive feats and some caveats. In a world where more efficient, smaller batteries are the norm in electric vehicles, Cadillac’s choice to equip the Escalade IQ with a massive battery—about 2-3 times the size of typical EV batteries—allows it to achieve this long range but also leads to a trade-off. During Moloughney’s test, the SUV returned around 2.1 miles per kWh, which isn’t groundbreaking efficiency but rather a testament to the sheer size of the battery.
However, this size brings about challenges. Weighing in at nearly 9,000 pounds, the Escalade IQ carries significant heft, and recharging it—even on high-power chargers—will take more time than its lighter counterparts.
Of course, there’s the price tag to confront. Given that batteries form the heart of any electric vehicle, the Escalade IQ starts at a staggering $127,700—far surpassing the cost of its gas-powered brethren and placing it out of reach for many everyday consumers.
So, while concerns about range are slowly fading away, the true ability to tackle extensive distances without worry remains a luxury reserved for those willing to make a significant financial investment. With the Cadillac Escalade IQ, you’re not just buying an electric vehicle; you’re acquiring a well-crafted statement that transcends typical driving. For those hesitant to embrace electric vehicles due to range concerns, the Escalade IQ could serve as a powerful nudge in the right direction, blending peace of mind with undeniable luxury.
If you have insights or tips about the electric vehicle world, feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Image Source: Everyonephoto Studio / Shutterstock
