Buick's Flagship Sedan Concept Resembles a Citroen DS Transmitted From the Future | Carscoops

      Buick has unveiled a striking flagship electric sedan concept designed exclusively for the Chinese market.

      The Electra Orbit boasts a sleek profile reminiscent of the iconic 1950s Citroen DS, infused with a modern touch.

      Currently, China is a key and strategically significant market for GM’s Buick brand.

      Is that really you, Buick? GM’s mid-tier premium brand has unveiled a remarkable luxury sedan that stands in stark contrast to the pleasant yet forgettable SUVs and crossovers available in its US dealerships. However, there are a couple of significant drawbacks to this announcement.

      Named Electra Orbit, this long, low four-door EV is merely a concept at this point, but there is a strong possibility that much of what we see will influence upcoming Buick flagship sedans. The other limitation is that you'll need to be in China to have the opportunity to purchase one.

      A New Direction for Buick in China

      China represents a significant market for Buick, and GM has begun to invest substantial efforts into positioning the brand as a serious contender in the luxury sector. As part of this initiative, the company has introduced its Electra sub-brand in Asia, and this new concept aims to familiarize the Chinese audience with its vision.

      The Electra Orbit displays a sleek silhouette that transitions from a slender front end to a sharply pointed rear, resembling more of a elongated GT coupe concept than a traditional four-door sedan. The design seems to draw inspiration from the 1950s space race and echoes the legendary original Citroen DS that emerged in that era.

      Its long wheelbase provides ample space for Chinese customers, who typically favor being chauffeured rather than driving themselves, while the extended rear overhang exudes a sense of classic luxury.

      Visual Drama, Inside and Out

      The front features six LED lights and a backlit emblem to convey branding, with additional Buick logos located on the front fenders, wheel hubs, and rear. While some of these visual elements might be incorporated into a production model, the four scissor doors are less likely to be featured.

      Interior renderings showcase four individual seats divided by a central spine that runs from the front to the back, along with a wide digital dashboard consisting of a slim screen stretching from one pillar to the other. A central orb on the console presumably manages the vehicle's various driving and infotainment systems, alongside a holographic globe display hovering beneath the windshield.

      Where It Fits in Buick’s EV Strategy

      No technical specifications have been disclosed, but the Electra Orbit is understood to be a fully electric vehicle, even though the Electra brand was initially intended to offer both electric and hybrid vehicles.

      Last month, Buick introduced the more traditionally styled Electra L7 sedan in China, built on Xiao Yao architecture. This BMW i5-sized sedan comes with a range-extending hybrid generating 502 hp (374 kW / 509 PS), with a battery electric vehicle version also planned.