Buick launches ELECTRA high-end NEV sub-brand

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- At the 2025 Buick Brand Day, SAIC-GM's Buick brand officially launched its new high-end new energy sub-brand ELECTRA (named "Zhi Jing" in Chinese) and unveiled the all-new Buick "Xiao Yao" Super Architecture, a next-generation platform that marks a significant step in the brand's electrification journey and its vision for the future of mobility.

Over the next two years, the ELECTRA brand aims to offer full coverage across the core price segments of the NEV market, catering to diverse mobility needs. Blending Buick's global manufacturing legacy with China's innovation capabilities, ELECTRA is positioned to deliver agile, user-centric products and services tailored to fast-evolving market trends.

One of the first models built on the All-new Buick "Xiao Yao" Super Architecture is the Buick ENCASA, an ultra-premium electric MPV designed for high-end families. Making its debut at the event, the ENCASA will officially be launched later this year.

The Buick ENCASA introduces a bold new design language that sets it apart from the existing GL8 family. The front end features a split-headlight setup with a minimalist, closed-off upper grille that emphasizes modern elegance. Flowing side contours, a floating roof design, privacy glass for the rear cabin, and powered sliding doors elevate its upscale character. At the rear, a distinctive light bar and dual-brand badging underscore its luxury positioning.

According to regulatory filings from the MIIT, the ENCASA boasts impressive dimensions: 5,260 mm in length, 2,000 mm (or 2,023 mm) in width, and 1,820 mm (or 1,835 mm) in height, with a generous 3,160 mm wheelbase.

Inside, the ENCASA delivers on its premium promise with both 6- and 7-seat configurations to suit different family needs. The cabin features luxury-grade materials and craftsmanship, enhanced by cutting-edge technologies. It will be the first to feature industry-first zero-gravity floating seats with multiple reclining modes, as well as a "Five-Constant" comfort cabin environment system, offering a top-tier in-cabin experience.

On the intelligence front, the ENCASA showcases Buick's "Smart Wellness Cabin," powered by Qualcomm's latest 8775 chip with peak-level computing capabilities. A 50-inch AR-HUD and an eight-screen digital environment support a wide range of proactive smart features. The model also comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems for enhanced safety and convenience.

Powertrain options include both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variants. The PHEV version is powered by a 1.5T hybrid system with a 132 kW 1.5T engine and a 200 kW electric motor. Detailed specs for the battery pack and electric range are yet to be disclosed.

Beyond the ENCASA, the ELECTRA brand plans to introduce six new NEV models over the next 12 months, spanning MPVs, SUVs, and sedans—all based on the Xiao Yao architecture. These vehicles aim to meet the expanding demands of premium NEV users and further strengthen Buick's foothold in the electrified market.

The "Xiao Yao" Super Architecture—Buick's first locally developed vehicle platform tailored to the Chinese market—offers extensive scalability. It supports multiple body styles (MPV, SUV, sedan), powertrain solutions (BEV, PHEV, and REEV), and drive configurations (FWD, RWD, AWD), enabling versatile product development.

The platform also integrates four core technology domains: powertrain, chassis, intelligent driving, and smart cockpit. It represents a new benchmark in local innovation and system integration.

For driver assistance safety, Buick employs triple redundancy through LiDAR, millimeter-wave radar, and cameras. In the event of hardware failure, the system seamlessly shifts to user control. A dual-layer steering detection system and an emergency override that deactivates automated driving if the driver closes their eyes for more than three seconds ensure heightened road safety.