MARCH 29, 1999

Revamping Cadillac

GENERAL MOTOR's Cadillac division has decided to put the striking Evoq roadster into production in 2002. The car, which was shown to the world as the recent North American International Auto Show in Detroit, marks a radical attempt to rid Cadillac of its dull middle-aged image and attract new car buyers.

GENERAL MOTOR's Cadillac division has decided to put the striking Evoq roadster into production in 2002. The car, which was shown to the world as the recent North American International Auto Show in Detroit, marks a radical attempt to rid Cadillac of its dull middle-aged image and attract new car buyers.

The company is planning to enter two prototype sportscars in the Le Mans 24 Hours next year in an effort to create a sportier image and GM's head of motorsport Herb Fischel says that the company is gunning for its European rivals. "We want to compete head on with BMW and Mercedes - both on and off the track," said Fischel.

With BMW planning to join Mercedes in F1 next season, it would be a logical move for Cadillac to follow suit as soon as possible as the Le Mans 24 Hours provides only moderate exposure for a car company.