Buick Heads to China With an All-Electric Crossover Concept

Buick took a turn toward the electric and showed off an all-electric crossover concept in China. Dubbed the Enspire, this rig combines the sleekness and efficiency Buick will need to survive. The big question is, will this concept actually be a production vehicle or just another GM pipedream?

The Buick Enspire’s looks are, well, inspiring, as it drops all the aging Buick garbage and brings in a fresh take on the grille, headlights, taillights and sheet metal. Everything is tuned for aerodynamics, which is something Buick has lacked. In the past, this sub-luxury automaker has chosen to focus more on corporate recognition and tradition than style, and when it did stray, it was for the arguably hideous Cascada.

Inside, the interior takes a step from sub-luxury into true luxury with its natural woodgrain trim, microsuede, OLED center display, theater-style seating, and 5G Wi-Fi.

2018 Buick Enspire Concept interior

Under its hood, the Enspire will boast a 550-horsepower all-electric powertrain that launches the crossover to 60 mph in 4 seconds. What’s more, the Enspire can travel 370 miles on a single charge and getting an 80% charge takes only 40 minutes on a fast charger. It also has wireless charging capability for whenever that becomes available to the masses.

Again, the big mystery is whether or not Buick actually has plans to create this vehicle. My gut says “no,” but the Enspire’s development could drive the brand’s future EV advancement. Maybe switching Buick to a premium electric brand is one way this niche automaker can survive over time.