Functional design
Almost every exterior panel on the ATS-V is unique, from the fascias and fenders, to the hood,
rear spoiler and rocker moldings – and every one was designed to support the car’s capability.
“All of the design elements have a purpose,” said Andrew Smith, executive director, Cadillac
Global Design. “They contribute to lift reduction, enhanced cooling, reduced mass or all of the
above.”
The unique elements include:
•
A lightweight carbon fiber hood features an air-extracting vent that not only pulls hot air
out of the engine compartment, but helps reduce lift at speed by channeling air pulled
through the radiator out and over the top of car rather than allowing trapped air to exit
under the car
•
Unique front and rear fascias provide optimal aero performance, with larger grille
openings in the front fascia to feed more air to the new twin-turbocharged engine. Even
the mesh pattern of the signature grille openings is enlarged to allow more air into the
radiator and multiple heat exchangers
•
A front splitter enhances handling by forcing air to push down on the front of the car
rather than flow under it, where it can cause lift
•
Wider fenders to accommodate 18 x 9-inch front wheels and 18 x 9.5-inch rear wheels
that are wrapped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires
•
The aluminum wheels, unique to the V-Series, are constructed of a low-mass forging that
helps reduce un-sprung weight for greater agility and a more direct feel to steering
inputs
•
The rocker moldings and rear spoiler are aero-optimized.
Available Carbon Fiber and Track packages take aero performance and mass optimization to
higher levels. The Carbon Fiber package includes a more aggressive front splitter, hood vent
trim and rear diffuser, along with composite rocker extensions and a taller, body-color rear
spoiler. The Track package includes the components of the Carbon Fiber package, plus the
Performance Data Recorder and a low-mass battery. It also deletes the standard floor mats and
tire inflator kit to save weight.
“V-Series is the emotive core of the Cadillac brand and the apex of the Art and Science design
philosophy,” said Smith. “A car offering a bold sense of arrival, serious performance, seamless
integration of technology, and precision craftsmanship. The exposed carbon fiber components,
for example, are book-matched on the centerline for a more precise, tailored appearance.”
