GM China reveals Buick Electra Orbit concept: space-age romance meets cutting-edge EV design

2025-08-05

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SHANGHAI — GM China today introduced the Buick Electra Orbit concept, a design exploration that marries the romance of the 1950s with futuristic technology and pure-electric architecture.

Conceived and developed by the GM China Advanced Design Center, the Electra Orbit concept pushes proportions, materials, and cabin innovation to spark fresh inspiration. It is a dreamlike expression of creativity and technological ambition—an artistic exploration that stretches the boundaries of Buick design and hints at what the future could hold.

“Electra Orbit is a bold exploration of what Buick can be when we blend heritage inspiration with visionary innovation,” said Stuart Norris, Vice President of Design for GM China and GM International and Chief of Design at SAIC-GM. “By reinterpreting space-age motifs and pushing electric-architecture freedoms, we wanted to create a concept that feels both familiar in its Buick DNA and thrillingly new.” 

Drawing inspiration from space-age spacecraft, jets, and iconic Buick concepts of the 1950s, Electra Orbit embraces true flagship proportions, stretching nearly six meters in length and over two meters in width. Featuring a low front, expansive body, and an extended, streamlined rear, the Electra Orbit presents a distinctly futuristic and refined appearance. Its 24-inch wheels are framed by sculptural fenders, complementing the sleek side profile to create an unparalleled sense of luxury. Dramatic scissor doors welcome occupants with a sense of occasion, while deployable aerodynamic devices optimize drag and downforce at higher speeds. A dual, center-pivoting frunk reveals a crafted storage area with custom luggage—an ode to the glamour and romance of travel.

The concept refines a neutral metallic color named “Space” for reflecting the hues of the universe, the vastness and mystery of outer space and seamlessly integrating with its environment to underscore Electra Orbit’s cosmic theme.

Enabled by GM’s dedicated EV platform, the interior space of Electra Orbit is maximized to embody Buick’s comfort-centric philosophy. Electra Orbit’s cabin continues the retro-futurism narrative with an orbit-inspired design language in a 2+2 layout that balances luxury and forward-thinking tech. A sweeping arch-shaped display—the “Ring”—spans A-pillar to A-pillar for an immersive digital experience. The instrument panel and steering wheel reconfigure across driving modes, shifting between driver-centric focus and autonomous comfort. At the heart of the IP sits a wormhole-inspired interface serving as the intelligent AI assistant, while the center console’s ball-shaped controller offers intuitive physical command of vehicle functions.

Shifting focus to the cabin’s atmosphere, the ‘Ground’ theme contrasts earthly textures with cosmic inspiration. A two-tone palette features a rich red clay–inspired hue drawn from natural earth tones, paired with custom brocade patterns that fuse tradition and innovation. Opulent fabrics, crystal accents, and a “Digital Illusion Carpet” layer to evoke the pulse of celestial elements, elevating the cabin to a new level of refined luxury.

“The Electra Orbit concept highlights the creativity and distinctive perspective of GM China’s design team,” Norris added.  

“Rooted in local insights and driven by inventive exploration, the project demonstrates how bold forms, materials, and technologies can be executed in an authentic context.” 

GM Technical Center Korea provided artistic visualization for the project.