2005 Cadillac STS SAE100 Concept

A total of fifty unique safety, powertrain, electrical, comfort and convenience enhancing technologies are crammed into the new

A total of fifty unique safety, powertrain, electrical, comfort and convenience enhancing technologies are crammed into the new Cadillac. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

Cadillac, developed in conjunction with thirty-eight suppliers.

"We want to learn how a variety of relevant current and future technologies can be made to function harmoniously while enhancing the total driving experience," commented Jim Queen, GM's vice president of global engineering, during a keynote speech he delivered to kick off the SAE conference.

A short list of STS SAE100 technologies, some available in rival cars and others never seen before, include a lane departure warning system; an oil condition sensor for detecting levels and lubrication quality; a 3D navigation system that integrates photos of surrounding landmarks in conjunction with digital maps; a "capless" refueling system which is easier for disabled or arthritic drivers use, incorporating an electronically actuated switch inside the vehicle that spins a ball around and creates an opening to the fuel tank; plus an interior rearview mirror featuring an integrated

GM spent more than $1 million USD developing the one-off Caddy. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

LED screen for unimpeded sight to both the rear seat and the area behind the car via small cameras.

"This is the most technologically innovative and integrated vehicle we've ever seen," offered GM's director of concept vehicles, Al Oppenheiser.

Considering that the automaker spent more than $1 million USD developing the one-off Caddy, it should be. Look for some of these features to show up on upcoming Cadillacs, allowing a new "standard of the world" to be set, or at least giving the crested wreath brand a good shot of keeping up with European rivals.

Specifications:

• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, RWD
• Engine: 505-hp, 48-valve, V12
• Transmission: 5-spd automatic with manual function
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Exterior Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,985 / 1,845 / 1,464 / 2,957 mm (196.3 / 72.6 / 57.6 / 116.4 in)
• Web Site: www.gmcanada.com