The new Cadillac Lyriq is a vehicle that General Motors drives a lot. As the first all-electric Cadillac, it has the distinguished role of changing public perception of the brand. About 20 early adopters were given the opportunity to get a $5,500 discount if they agreed to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) regarding their experience. Now the government is asking GM to clarify its position.
The agreement raises concerns among NHTSA that such owners may be inhibited or discouraged from reporting safety concerns to the agency. NHTSA spokeswoman Lucia Sanchez told the Detroit Free Press that the agency is “in communication with GM regarding” nondisclosure agreements and that “any agreements that may prevent or deter consumers from Reporting safety issues to NHTSA is unacceptable.”
On the other side of the coin, Dan Flores, a spokesman for General Motors defended the decision and said GM had informed NHTSA that it need not be concerned. He says these ambassadors are encouraged to contact GM if they encounter any issues while driving the Lyriq. He also explained exactly how the program works.
Read more: Cadillac Lyriq says goodbye to GM’s parts bin
“Cadillac has created a small-scale Ambassador Program to provide early learning from the first vehicles sold… This includes handling, performance, safety, comfort and any other feedback that Ambassadors wish to share as enthusiasts of Cadillac. Although the Program Agreement contains provisions designed to protect GM’s confidential and proprietary information, it is not intended to, and does not prohibit or prevent participants from reporting any issues, security or otherwise. , NHTSA or any other regulatory body,” he said.
Keep in mind, though, that we’re talking about the amount of information owners can disclose to federal authorities, not other potential customers who might be interested in the Lyriq itself. It’s an interesting choice given how important good word of mouth is in the EV game. Tesla has no marketing department and runs everything it does through positive word of mouth.
At the same time, these approximately 20 people are a very small sample and represent only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the entire 2023 model customer base. Although Cadillac declined to announce the number of Lyriqs it will manufacture this year, suppliers have been asked to prepare for 25,000 units.
To work things out with NHTSA, GM has agreed to send all customers a letter stating that they are free to report any concerns to NHTSA and any other regulatory agency.
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