Buick’s been stuck in crossover purgatory for years now, churning out competent but forgettable SUVs that fail to capture any of the swagger the brand once wielded. But every now and then, the automaker’s design teams (particularly those working out of China) remind us what Buick is actually capable of when the suits step aside. Enter the Electra Orbit Concept, a nearly 20-foot electric flagship that looks like it rolled straight out of a 1950s sci-fi film, and it might be exactly what the brand needs to remember who it used to be.
Flagship Proportions with Jet-Age DNA
The Electra Orbit stretches nearly 235” long and over 80” wide, which are dimensions that put it in Cadillac Escalade ESV territory while maintaining the sleek profile of a grand touring coupe. This is a deliberate throwback to the original Electra 225, which earned its numerical badge from its 225-inch length back in 1959. That car was named after Electra Waggoner Biggs and served as Buick’s flagship until 1990, when the brand apparently forgot that luxury could be both sophisticated and exciting.
The concept’s proportions follow classic jet-age design principles, such as a low nose that flows seamlessly into an expansive body before terminating in an extended, aerodynamically sculpted tail. Massive 24-inch wheels fill sculptural fenders that create dramatic shadows along the sides, while the neutral metallic “Space” finish reflects light like a proper spacecraft should.
An Aerodynamic Approach
Where the Orbit truly shines is in its deployable aerodynamic package. At rest, it presents a relatively clean, almost sedate appearance. But at speed, the car transforms. Hood vents open to channel airflow, the front splitter drops closer to the ground, side skirts extend downward, and a split rear wing deploys to manage downforce. It’s the kind of active aerodynamics that make you feel like you’re piloting something special rather than just commuting.
The scissor doors push outward and rotate upward with integrated lighting that welcomes occupants, while the dual center-pivoting frunk reveals custom luggage designed specifically for the car.
Within the Sphere of Possibility
Sporting a 2+2 layout, the inside features a sweeping “Ring” display that spans from A-pillar to A-pillar, creating an immersive digital environment that reconfigures based on your driving mode. A refreshing change of pace from the touchscreen overload we get from other new cars, the wormhole-inspired AI assistant sits at the heart of the instrument panel, while a spherical controller on the center console provides tactile feedback for vehicle functions.
Rather than the typical black leather and brushed aluminum material combination, Buick opted for rich red clay tones inspired by natural earth elements, paired with custom brocade patterns. Crystal accents and a “Digital Illusion Carpet” complete the cosmic theme without becoming too kitschy.
Spec Sheet
Model: Buick Electra Orbit Concept
Layout: 2+2 seating configuration
Length: ~235”
Width: ~80”
Wheels: 24-inch diameter
Exterior Color: “Space” neutral metallic
Platform: GM dedicated EV architecture
Development: GM China Advanced Design Center, Shanghai
Pricing & Availability
The Electra Orbit remains a pure concept exercise with no announced production timeline or pricing. However, as Buick continues expanding its Electra EV sub-brand globally, elements from this flagship study could influence future production models. For now, it serves as a bold statement of intent from a brand that desperately needs to remember how to be bold again.
Recap
Buick Electra Orbit Concept
Proving there’s still some magic happening with the brand, Buick’s Chinese design team created this futuristic concept that looks like it came from a ’50s sci-fi film, equipped with an AI assistant orb and scissor doors.
