Bush to parade new Cadillac

DETROIT (AP) — Americans will get an idea of what Cadillac’s newest model will look like when President Bush rides down Pennsylvania Avenue on Thursday.

Mr. Bush will take part in the inaugural parade in a jet-black Cadillac DTS limousine produced by General Motors Corp. It will provide a glimpse of the design direction of the mass-produced version of the 2006 DTS.

“General Motors and Cadillac are proud to write this latest chapter in American automotive history,” said GM Chairman and Chief Executive Rick Wagoner.

GM will introduce the production version of the DTS at next month’s Chicago Auto Show.

Similar to the production DTS, Mr. Bush’s limousine highlights Cadillac’s redesigned front and rear, while integrating the brand’s signature egg-crate grille up front.

The president’s handcrafted limousine is longer, wider and taller than the production model, and it is equipped with state-of-the-art protection and communication systems. It seats six and the rear seat features a concealed foldaway desktop.

Cadillac spokeswoman Kelly Wysocki said she could not discuss specifics of the arrangement between GM and the government, such as the cost of the vehicle or how many are produced.

GM has produced limousines and other specialty vehicles for U.S. presidents, ambassadors and foreign dignitaries since the early 1900s.

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