The 2026 Buick Electra E5 is a refreshed Ultium‑based midsize electric SUV that adds a new long‑range battery, quicker DC charging and upgraded software to Buick’s first modern EV, which is already on sale in China and being evaluated for a possible U.S. launch.
Powertrain, Range and Charging
Electra E5 rides on GM’s Ultium 2.0 platform with a single front motor standard and an optional dual‑motor AWD setup on higher trims. Single‑motor versions make roughly 150–180 kW (about 201–241 hp), while the dual‑motor AWD variant delivers around 211 kW (283–287 hp), good for 0–100 km/h in the mid‑7‑second range and a 180 km/h top speed. For 2026, Buick adds a new 76.8 kWh LFP Ultium CTP (cell‑to‑pack) battery alongside 65 kWh and 68.4 kWh packs, pushing claimed CLTC range up to 620 km (about 385 miles) on the top long‑range specification. The updated battery and BMS allow DC fast charging that can recover roughly 210 km of range in just 10 minutes and take the pack from about 30% to 80% in around 19 minutes on a high‑power charger.
Dimensions, Interior and Tech
At 4,892 mm long with a 2,954‑mm wheelbase, the Electra E5 sits in the heart of the midsize SUV class, roughly similar in footprint to a Cadillac Lyriq but with a family‑focused cabin layout. Inside, a 30‑inch 6K curved display stretches across the dash and runs Buick’s latest eConnect infotainment on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, bringing an AI voice assistant, wireless Apple CarPlay, OTA updates, and remote app control as standard. Higher trims add Bose Centerpoint audio, panoramic glass roof, wireless phone charging and rear‑seat recline functions, while a full Level 2 driver‑assist suite—adaptive cruise, lane‑keeping, AEB, blind‑spot monitoring—comes under the eCruise branding.
2026 Electra E5: Key Specs (China‑spec)
| Item | 2026 Buick Electra E5 Highlights |
|---|---|
| Platform | GM Ultium 2.0, FWD or dual‑motor AWD. |
| Power | 150–180 kW single motor; 211 kW AWD. |
| Battery options | 65, 68.4, 76.8 kWh (LFP & ternary). |
| Max range (CLTC) | 515–620 km depending on pack. |
| Fast charging | ~210 km added in 10 min; 30–80% in ~19 min. |
| Length / wheelbase | 4,892 mm / 2,954 mm. |
| Display / infotainment | 30‑inch 6K curved screen, eConnect, AI assistant, wireless CarPlay. |
Market Status and Early Release Details
The refreshed 2026 Electra E5 has already launched in China, with First Edition, Smart and higher‑spec trims priced from roughly RMB 169,900 (about 23,600 dollars) and positioned as Buick’s main EV entry there. In North America, GM and Buick continue to discuss importing the Electra E5 as an early Ultium SUV offering around 2026, but reports note that tariffs, certification hurdles and tax‑credit rules have effectively delayed any U.S. launch indefinitely, with no firm timing yet confirmed to dealers. Even so, Buick’s broader plan to make most of its lineup electric by 2030 means the Electra E5 will remain central to its global EV strategy, whether or not the 2026 U.S. target is met.
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FAQs
Q1: How far can the 2026 Electra E5 go on a charge?
In China‑spec form, the new 76.8 kWh pack delivers up to 620 km CLTC, with lower‑capacity versions rated 515–545 km; U.S. EPA figures would be lower if a U.S. model is homologated.
Q2: How quickly does it charge?
Buick quotes about 210 km of range added in 10 minutes and a 30–80% charge in roughly 19 minutes on a suitable DC fast charger.
Q3: Is the Electra E5 confirmed for the U.S. in 2026?
No. 2026 is still discussed as a potential timing, but trade and policy issues mean the U.S. launch is effectively on hold with no official date