!NEW! Matthias Seidl is New Opel Executive Director Sales Central & Eastern Europe

Jürgen Keller appointed new Opel Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales in Germany

Matthias Seidl - New Opel Executive Director Sales Central & Eastern Europe

Opel Board Member for Sales, Peter Christian Küspert, is re-organizing his team. Effective January 1, Matthias Seidl (50) is appointed Executive Director Sales, Central & Eastern Europe & International Operations. Jürgen Keller (47) takes over the position from Matthias Seidl as Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales.

“Matthias Seidl is a sales professional with many years of international experience. This year in Germany, he and his team have successfully stabilized our market share. Now we want to utilize his international expertise to drive Opel forward in Eastern and Central Europe, as well as in our international growth markets,” says Peter Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales.

Seidl has been with Opel since December 2012. Prior to joining the company, he was

Vice President Global Sales & Aftersales at Saab Automobile in Trollhättan, Sweden. He also spent 20 years at Volkswagen, including spells as COO of Volkswagen America, Executive Director Sales American Region for VW and Audi, Managing Director of Audi Australia and Director Asia-Pacific, as well as Regional Manager Western Europe at Audi. Before beginning his professional career, Seidl trained as a banker and completed an MBA program at the University of Wales.

The position of Executive Director Sales Central & Eastern Europe & International Operations has been vacant since Andy Dunstan was promoted to manage the Russian operations of GM Europe on November 1.

Jürgen Keller has worked for Opel since 1993. A former competitive swimmer, he has led Opel Special Vehicles GmbH and was previously Sales Manager for Germany between 2010 and 2012 before taking up his current position as Director International Operations for Opel. The sales expert gets his new job in Peter Küspert’s team as something of a birthday present – on New Year’s Eve, Keller will celebrate both the New Year and his 48th birthday.

Jürgen Keller - New Opel Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales in Germany

“With Jürgen Keller’s appointment, a respected expert becomes Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales for the German market,” says Board Member Küspert. “This year, we have successfully stabilized our market share despite the very challenging economic environment in Europe. Consequently, we want to gain further market share in 2014. With his extensive experience and ability to act swiftly, Jürgen Keller will play a key role in achieving this goal on the important German market.”

!NEW! Claudia Schiffer is European Opel Brand Ambassador

• Fashion icon and Supermodel will be the star of the new advertising campaign ‘It’s a German’
• First spots with the Opel Meriva and Mokka will be on TV mid-January already

Claudia Schiffer drives Opel: Fashion icon and Supermodel will be the star of the new advertising campaign ‘It’s a German’

Claudia Schiffer has graced the cover of over 1,000 magazines and is named as one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her ability to appeal to a global audience has ensured an internationally successful career spanning over 25 years. She is UNICEF ambassador and incontestably a real world star. Originally from the Rhineland, Claudia now slips into her next role as the German face of Opel in Europe. She is taking center stage in the new campaign ‘It’s a German’ that already in January will celebrate its TV premiere right across Europe – except in Germany and the United Kingdom.

In small, fine and very emotional stories, Claudia Schiffer charmingly illustrates Opel’s ‘Made in Germany’ concept. The uniqueness of Opel’s models, imbued with the German art of engineering and with clever door concepts such as that demonstrated by the Meriva MPV, and well-honed all-wheel drive technology as presented in the Mokka SUV, is a significant theme of the TV advertising. At the end of each commercial, Claudia Schiffer delivers the entrancing punchline: “It’s a German”.

Opel Chief Marketing Officer Tina Müller says full of enthusiasm: “The campaign puts across those modern German values that have also been appreciated internationally. Today, Opel stands for the perfect German art of engineering, an emotional design and an unbeatable price-value relationship. With Claudia Schiffer we were able to win a German world star who fully identifies with the brand.”

Claudia Schiffer also raves about her first working days as Opel brand ambassador: “We filmed the first commercial in mid-December in Barcelona. The new Opel models stand for great German engineering as well as innovation and practicality. The Meriva MPV with its rear-hinged rear doors is unique and a first for Opel. It is fantastic for families like mine.”

!NEW! It’s All About the Angle: Opel ADAM is Unique in Every Size

Greetings from Santa Claus: Opel ADAM picks up gifts for the New Year at North Pole

Infinite variety: Opel ADAM with more variants, colors and decors in 2014

Individuality: Now with 16 body colors (+5!) and 6 roof colors (+4!)

Exceptional perspective: Photo project with miniature Opel ADAM in natural surroundings

Opel ADAM is perfect car for Santa Claus – bright red body with a snow-white roof

The Opel ADAM has made its way to the North Pole. Because as Santa Claus’ red-white snowmobile, it should of course bring lots of gifts. These include five new, fresh body colors for the ADAM and four new roof colors, a host of smart colored design highlights and three new seat fabrics that all give the chic urban car even more individuality. With all this, it is now possible to choose from 16 body colors and six different roof colors to combine.

Photographer Axel Wierdemann preparing Santa Claus diorama with Opel ADAM in 1:43 scale 

But the Opel ADAM doesn’t only cut a fine figure in original size – in miniature format it also inspires creativity. This landed the 1:43 scale model car of the successful Opel newcomer squarely in front of the camera. With a unique photo project, photographer Axel Wierdemann from Wiesbaden turned the micro  Opel ADAM into a big star. In a unique and creative approach he photographed the Opel ADAM in the most popular toy format, together with small characters of the same scale – but rather than in a studio, this happened near the ADAM’s home, outside in its natural stomping grounds. The idea was to use the most trivial reality, play with the location, the car and the characters, and prefer any mechanical trick to photoshop solutions to imagine ADAM’s life.

Opel ADAM 2014: Even more colorful and individual in second year

The Opel ADAM shows just how unique and amazing it is in original size, now offering even more customization possibilities. Opel ADAM customers can now choose between 16 body colors – that can be used for both body and roof – and six exclusive roof colors that can be combined with these according to one’s taste. A new, elegant silver color (called “Silverwalker”), a rich dark brown (“M. Darkside”), a vibrant blue (“Let it Blue”), an audacious lime green (“Dancing Green”) and a subtle warm grey (“Pink-Kong”) are introduced as body colors; three of them (dark brown, lime green and vibrant blue) are also available now as exclusive roof colors.

In addition, three new seat fabrics, three new interior decors and two new interior colors, one new headliner, two new interior mirror colors and three new exterior mirror cap decors as well as one new logo bar color and two new sets of exterior decals further enrich Opel ADAM’s individualization possibilities. So the Opel ADAM is even more stylish and colorful as it drives into its second year of sales, further strengthening and reinforcing its role as the fashionable individualization champion.

In addition, the two special models Opel ADAM Black Link and ADAM White Link not only offer very special black-white smartphone design with aluminum accents, but also the clever, award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system and Siri Eyes Free support as standard, all for prices starting at 16,190 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

Photo adventures in front of the door for micro Opel ADAM

A nighttime joyride: Berry red, Yellow and Blue – the Opel ADAM models drive past the Wiesbaden main station in the moonlight. But what looks like moonlight is really a flashlight.

The boundaries between reality and the world of model cars are expertly blurred. Here focus is on the small Opel ADAM in 1:43 scale, where the Rhine river or Wiesbaden main station provide the scenery. The aim of Axel Wierdemann’s photo project with ADAM as its leading actor was to create a new world of images while keeping the model as real and authentic as possible. Wierdemann photographed conventional miniature vehicles and figures up close and with long exposure time, intensively playing with rather simple, but clever lighting effects. Small everyday items were channeled into completely different objects. For example, a popsicle stick turned into a diving board, and cinema tickets were rolled out to create the perfect red carpet in front of an impressive backdrop. The pictures give the impression of having been shot during different seasons in different countries, but actually they were all shot on the photographer’s home turf in the Rhine-Main region, very near Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim. Does that sound too abstract? Just click through our ADAM world of wonders photos – one thing is guaranteed: the Opel ADAM will amaze you in miniature format too!

Catwalk of the stars: “Spotlight on, camera rolling” is the motto when stars walk down the red carpet with the beautifully illuminated Theodor-Heuss-Bridge over the Rhine river connecting Mainz and Wiesbaden in the background. In the middle of the glamorous event come the stars in their sophisticated, stylish Opel ADAM. 

!NEW! Now available on eBay: Opel ADAM designed by Moto GP Champion Rossi

• Valentino Rossi and designer Aldo Drudi creation auctioned for outreach project supported by Opel
• Funds raised will go to the Meyer Children’s Hospital Foundation – Meyer O.N.L.U.S. in Florence, Italy

Valentino Rossi and his unique, funky Opel ADAM: The ‘ADAM & Vale for charity’ auction starts today. The funds raised will be donated to the Meyer Children’s Hospital Foundation – Meyer O.N.L.U.S in Florence, Italy.

A small car for a great cause. Today (17 December) the ‘Opel ADAM & Vale for charity’ auction is launched on eBay. The funds raised in the auction will be donated to the Meyer Children’s Hospital Foundation – Meyer O.N.L.U.S. in Florence. The unique and funky car was completed in three months by Opel brand ambassador Valentino “Vale” Rossi and star designer Aldo Drudi. Aldo Drudi redesigned the livery and interior that is now fitted with Dainese leather. Just as visible is the creative influence of Valentino Rossi. The star of the Moto GP championship, who is also known by his nickname “The Doctor”, has added his own personal touches to the individualization champion with numerous ideas. Therefore, for example, Rossi’s racing number 46 in neon colors adorns the exterior while his own signature is written across the hood.

Valentino Rossi signed Opel ADAM hood

Valentino Rossi is excited to be part of the project: “I am very happy that the car has turned out so well and I hope to be able to participate in further projects: Together we can do a lot to support the children’s hospital foundation Meyer O.N.L.U.S.” says Rossi.

Valentino Rossi in his unique, funky Opel ADAM

The Meyer O.N.L.U.S children’s hospital offers a distinct approach that focuses on the child and his/her wellbeing and at the same time places emphasis on a number of activities that ensure the quality of the child’s stay in hospital and that of the family. The hospital warmly welcomes the ‘Opel ADAM & Vale for Charity’ initiative – Tommaso Langiano, Director General of the University Hospital Meyer and President of the Meyer Foundation says: “Opel together with Valentino Rossi and Aldo Drudi have shown us an act of generosity for which we express our heartfelt gratitude. The funds will be used for the activities of our games room, where children can play, participate in lessons and learn to read with the help of professional educators.”

To bid for the ‘ADAM & Vale for charity’ model please go to http://www.meyer.it/adam46/ To view funds raised or for more information on the Meyer O.N.L.U.S. children’s hospital, please see: http://www.meyer.it/

!NEW! Bryan Adams stages Opel ADAM

Opel commences creative cooperation with the Canadian rock-singer and photographer

November

Opel ADAM is to be restaged and what’s more, by an international superstar. The Canadian composer and rock-singer isn´t only an outstanding musician, he is also a respected photographer. In his studio in Berlin the artist photographs the individualization champion for a calendar entitled ‘ADAM by Bryan Adams’. Furthermore, Bryan Adams created an ADAM according to his own artistic design – in a camouflage look. On January 23, the results will be unveiled at a vernissage in the museum Haus der Kunst in Munich and will be on show until January 26. The ‘ADAM by Bryan Adams’ in camouflage-look will be launched as an exclusive limited edition series of ten cars, the proceeds will go to the ‘Bryan Adams Foundation’ that looks after needy people the world over.

For charity: The ‘ADAM by Bryan Adams’ in camouflage-look will be launched as an exclusive limited edition series of ten cars, the proceeds will go to the ‘Bryan Adams Foundation’ that looks after needy people the world over.

Tina Müller, Chief Marketing Officer, who was present at the shooting in Berlin is excited about the cooperation: “We´re happy that we were able to win such an excellent artist. That´s automotive photography as has never been seen before and one that is surprising coming from Opel. Opel is going to use the motifs in the communication around the ADAM in diverse ways. This campaign will deliver plenty to talk about – and that´s only one of the elements with which we want to position the brand as increasingly modern and as a lifestyle brand.

Bryan Adams had a lot of fun with the project and says: „With the Opel ADAM everything is possible.”

As a motif designed by Brian Adams, the Opel ADAM joins the ranks of the prominent and world famous. The Canadian has already had Amy Winehouse, Michael Jackson and Dustin Hoffmann model in front of his camera. On the occasion of the golden jubilee, Bryan Adams was chosen to make a portrait of Queen Elisabeth II – today it´s a motif on a Canadian stamp.

The Opel ADAM was launched at the beginning of the year and now the model inspires experts and customers with its unconventional entrance and groundbreaking technology. The jury of the renowned red dot design award certifies that the Opel ADAM cuts a good figure as a design-object. Just recently, the Opel ADAM convinces the readership of the Auto Zeitung for the second time running and was awarded the ‘Auto Trophy 2013’ in the category city cars.

The Opel ADAM is also top in all things connectivity. The IntelliLink Infotainment System is the main attraction. It makes the Eisenach-produced little car the best-connected small car: The system is compatible with iOS and Android-operated Smartphones; the Siri Eyes Free feature in the IPhone is also supported.

Furthermore, the urban lifestyle model offers a firework of further innovations, until now only seen in premium class vehicles. The automatic parking assistant, a heated steering wheel, a blind spot assistant and a fully integrated FlexFix rear bicycle carrier –exclusive to Opel - are unique in this segment.

!NEW! Opel 4x4: Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Systems Deliver Enhanced Safety and Efficiency

Opel Mokka and Opel Insignia Country Tourer offer superior drive concept

Adaptive all-wheel drive systems for increased safety all year round, not just in winter

Opel Insignia OPC with best driving dynamics from 4x4 with electronic limited-slip differential

4x4 power: Opel Insignia Country Tourer, Opel Insignia OPC and Opel Mokka on tour in the snow-covered mountains

It’s time to head for the ski slopes again – and in the ice and snow of winter all-wheel drive systems come into their own. However, this is only part of the story, because an intelligent all-wheel drive system can also ensure increased safety and improved driving dynamics all year round without having to make compromises in terms of everyday suitability. The best examples of this are the intelligent all-wheel drive systems fitted to the Opel Insignia Country Tourer, Opel Insignia OPC and Opel Mokka SUV. They represent the technical pinnacle of over 100 years of all-wheel drive development within the automotive industry. Opel’s all-wheel drive systems are now so sophisticated, they can sense and adapt to changing conditions even before a critical driving situation occurs.

4x4: Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC on downhill stretch

The development of the complex, networked drive systems in today’s Opel models has matched the pace of change seen in the digital information age. For example, at its market launch 22 years ago, the Opel Frontera, a trendsetter in the SUV segment and one of the best-selling off-road vehicles in Europe, still relied on the classic, mechanical on-demand all-wheel drive system. Now its grandchild, the Opel Mokka SUV, controls power distribution on demand with electronic bits and bytes. This, of course, also applies to Opel Insignia 4x4 models led by the Country Tourer. Electronics have become established as a means of ensuring the best-possible distribution of power. In this way, intelligent Opel all-wheel drive technology seamlessly joins safety systems such as ABS and ESP.

Taking driving to another level: Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer racing on an off-piste track

The advantages of having an on-demand control of power distribution are immense in comparison with purely mechanical systems still sometimes used today. The inherent drawbacks of such simple all-wheel drive systems – for example, twisting in the drivetrain, substantially higher fuel consumption and a reduction in driving comfort due to stronger vibrations – are almost completely eliminated by the intelligent all-wheel drive systems in today’s 4x4 Opel models. Opel systems score with a precise, on-demand power distribution which reacts in milliseconds to changing driving situations. This makes them clearly superior to other on-demand all-wheel drive systems which rely on the purely mechanical control of power distribution when wheel slip occurs. This usually happens after a noticeable time delay, which has a corresponding negative impact on driving dynamics and comfort levels.

New Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer on downhill stretch

Opel’s all-wheel drive system has an electronic, multi-disk clutch which is flange-mounted on the rear axle differential. The disks run in an oil bath and their locking effect is seamlessly adjusted in milliseconds by an integrated control module. This solution gives Opel engineers the freedom to tailor specific control strategies which optimally adjust the all-wheel drive system to meet the different requirements of various model lines, even though they share similar hardware.

New Opel Insignia Country Tourer also convinces off-piste in snowy conditions

In addition to technical similarities in the electronic multi-disk clutch, the all-wheel drive systems in the Opel Mokka, Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC also share similarities in complex networking across the vehicles’ CAN bus. Data from numerous sensors is constantly exchanged between the control modules and the Opel all-wheel drive system utilizes the same driving dynamics sensors which feed information to the ABS and ESP systems. Data about yaw rate, steering angle and wheel speeds is evaluated and included in the all-wheel drive control strategy. The system also captures other driving conditions. Comprehensive networking and seamless power distribution, which is virtually delay-free, enable the Opel all-wheel drive system to function with foresight. For example, it reacts immediately to driver steering inputs and engine power measured by the throttle valve sensor, preventing wheel slip or vehicle instability before they occur. Basically, the intelligent Opel all-wheel drive system can be viewed as a form of reverse ESP: while the electronic stability program intervenes through the braking system in critical driving situations to keep the car on course, the electronically-controlled all-wheel drive system ensures ‘preventive’ vehicle stabilization before a critical situation occurs.

Stretching the limits with the Opel Mokka SUV – impressive 4x4 performance on snowy pistes

The differences between the all-wheel drive systems in the Opel Mokka, Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC models are the result of different objectives in line with the specific requirements of each vehicle concept.

All-wheel drive in the Opel Mokka SUV

Opel Mokka SUV with adaptive an all-wheel drive system: Safely on its way even in off-road conditions

Environmental responsibility was a top priority during development of the all-wheel drive system for the Opel Mokka. Hardly surprising, since Opel’s sub-compact SUV has set class standards for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This development goal was successfully achieved with targeted parameterization of the all-wheel drive system. The Mokka’s system can seamlessly distribute power between the front and rear axle from 100:0 to 50:50, while in normal everyday use it runs as an economical front-wheel drive car. This design enabled engineers to construct very lightweight components necessary for the all-wheel drive system during the Mokka’s development. As a result, the complete all-wheel drive system, including all the necessary axle, drive and transmission components, weighs less than 65 kilograms.

Opel Mokka SUV with efficient all-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts to driving conditions

The all-wheel drive system is activated when the Opel Mokka is stationary to prevent wheel slip at take-off. It also engages unobtrusively in a split second as soon as the driver depresses the clutch pedal. Once up and running, all power is transferred to the front wheels and the all-wheel drive system is only engaged when driving situations require it. As with most SUVs, the Mokka’s all-wheel drive system is supported by Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). Electronic traction control also replaces the function of the axle-differential lock with automatic braking intervention.

All-wheel drive in New Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC

New Opel Insignia Country Tourer: Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive with rear, electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), seamlessly distributes power from zero to 100 percent between the front and rear axle and between the rear wheels.

When developing the 4x4 variant of the Insignia, Opel engineers focused on optimizing driving dynamics. While the all-wheel drive architecture and its integration with CAN bus data is similar to that of the Opel Mokka, an electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD) has been introduced alongside the multi-disk clutch on the rear axle. This enables power to be distributed transversely, between the rear wheels, as well as longitudinally between the axles. Optimal adaptive driving dynamics are ensured by sporty control logics and the system’s ability to transfer all drive torque to the rear axle. Together with the intelligent limited-slip differential, which also seamlessly distributes power according to the prevailing driving situation, the Opel Insignia 4x4 offers a unique experience which gives the driver best-possible vehicle control. The ESP’s control strategy has also been optimally adapted to suit the all-wheel drive system. As a result, drivers can fully exploit the enhanced driving dynamics of the 4x4 Opel Insignia, especially when 325 hp is available from the powerful OPC version. With Opel’s fast-acting all-wheel drive system, driving safety and driving fun both reach new levels.

New Opel Insignia: Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive with rear, electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD).

!NEW! Opel Receives Connected Car Award for IntelliLink

Innovation prize for the IntelliLink infotainment system in Opel ADAM

Opel ADAM with IntelliLink

Connecting cars with their digital environment is a major engineering goal at Opel. The new Opel Insignia introduced this year impresses with its multimedia IntelliLink system and its tailored apps as well as the electronic, video-controlled owner’s manual myOpel Manual (Augmented Reality). But at Opel high-tech infotainment isn’t a feature reserved just for the top-of-the-line model. The small ADAM also makes quite an impression with its IntelliLink version.

Opel ADAM with IntelliLink  - The full scope of options IntelliLink offers in the Opel ADAM includes Stitcher, a global podcast internet radio app, TuneIn, a global radio access app and BringGo, a full function navigation app for Eastern and Western Europe. 

The Opel ADAM with the IntelliLink infotainment system is the best connected small car on the market. The state-of-the-art customizable system makes new media formats such as smartphones and apps available in-car. IntelliLink is compatible with both Apple iOS and Android software-operated smartphones. The full scope of options IntelliLink offers in the ADAM also includes TuneIn, a global radio access app, BringGo, a full function navigation app, and Stitcher, a global podcast internet radio app. The ADAM also offers comprehensive Siri Eyes Free support over the iPhone. The onboard infotainment system’s various functions can be tailored to individual needs and preferences, bringing the smartphone owner’s personal environment into the Opel ADAM.

Opel ADAM with IntelliLink  - Another IntelliLink-supported app in the Opel ADAM is Stitcher, a free global podcast internet radio that lets users listen to programs live or after they have been broadcast.

The editorial departments at the trade magazines Auto Bild and Computer Bild agreed that this much innovation deserves proper recognition. So together they acknowledged the IntelliLink infotainment system in the Opel ADAM with the “Connected Car Award”. Opel takes the prize in the category “Pioneer Award” for manufacturers that set trends in automotive connectivity. In their explanation, the journalists stated: “Opel offers the complex multimedia IntelliLink system for the ADAM for just 300 euros – everyone can afford that.”

!NEW! Opel strengthens the Rüsselsheim plant with additional model

Opel strengthens its German locations with additional investments: The company will add a new model to its Rüsselsheim plant. For competitive reasons the company is not in a position to reveal any details at this point in time.

"With DRIVE! 2022 we have developed a clear ten-year plan which focuses on a multi-billion dollar model offensive. The offensive is in full swing. And we are already paving the way for the products that will give us the chance for further growth the end of the decade" says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

Currently four versions of the Insignia are assembled in Rüsselsheim. From the beginning of 2015, the current generation of the Opel Zafira Tourer – which is now being built in Bochum – will follow.

At the same time, the company has today announced together with its partner PSA Peugeot Citroen that in future the C-CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) models will be produced in PSA’s French Sochaux plant. In return, the Spanish Opel plant in Saragossa will, as already announced, produce the successor of the B-MPVs of both companies.

“The alliance between PSA and Opel is based on a balanced approach”, said Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

!NEW! GM and PSA Report Progress on Strategic Alliance Implementation

• Confirm continued cooperation for two products based on PSA platforms in B-MPV and C-CUV segments
• Add new generation B-segment light commercial vehicle cooperation
• Announce balanced cross vehicle manufacturing
• Proceed with purchasing collaboration and confirm early favorable results
• Drop collaboration on B-segment platform and associated small petrol engine following detailed evaluation

General Motors and PSA Peugeot Citroen today announced further steps in their strategic Alliance. The Alliance remains structured around the main pillars of joint programs – purchasing and logistics, focused on Europe, and extends into cross manufacturing.

The two companies confirmed continued cooperation for two products based on PSA platforms – the B-MPV multi-purpose vehicle and C-CUV crossover-utility vehicle programs.  Additionally, the partners will cooperate on new generation products in the light commercial vehicle B-segment,   based on a PSA new generation platform. The first vehicles from the Alliance are expected to launch starting in 2016.

In addition, the parties will balance manufacturing – with each company producing one vehicle for the other. As announced in October, B-MPVs from both companies will be built in the GM España plant in Zaragoza. Today, the partners announced they would build their future C-CUVs in the French PSA plant in Sochaux.

“The Alliance between PSA and GM is based on a balanced approach. The vehicles of both manufacturers will be highly differentiated and fully consistent with their respective brand characteristics,” said Karl-Thomas Neumann, GM executive vice president and president, Europe. “The partners are now focused on execution of the Alliance while remaining open to new opportunities.”

Said Philippe Varin, chairman of the managing board of PSA Peugeot Citroën:

 “These announcements show that the Alliance continues to progress and is a key component of the Group’s turnaround plans in Europe.”

The updated synergies expected from the Alliance are estimated at approximately $1.2 billion by 2018. The synergies will be shared about evenly between the two companies.

GM and PSA also agreed to amend certain other terms of the Alliance. They will simplify the joint governance of the Alliance and remove as a ground for terminating the Alliance the failure to achieve a minimum number of cooperation programs within a specific time. They also agreed to a waiver of GM’s right to terminate the Alliance under certain conditions in the event certain parties take a stake in PSA, in which case such parties would support the Alliance. GM would vote any PSA shares it would then hold in favor of any such transaction.

!NEW! Dan Akerson to Retire as GM CEO in January 2014

Mary Barra to Become Next GM CEO; Dan Ammann Named President

Daniel F. Akerson - GM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, General Motors Company

General Motors today announced that Dan Akerson, who guided today’s GM to record profits and dramatic improvement in vehicle quality while closing the chapter on government ownership in the company, will step down as chairman and CEO on Jan. 15, 2014.

Mary Barra to become next GM CEO

Mary T. Barra - GM Executive Vice President, Global Product Development & Global Purchasing & Supply Chain

Mary Barra, 51, executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain, was elected by the Board of Directors to become the next CEO of the company.  Barra will also join the GM Board. 

Dan Akerson, 65, pulled ahead his succession plan by several months after his wife was recently diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer.

The Board also named Theodore (Tim) Solso to succeed Akerson as Chairman.  Solso, 66, is the former chairman and CEO of Cummins, Inc., and has been a member of the GM Board since June 2012.

Theodore M. Solso - GM Former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Cummins, Inc.

“I will leave with great satisfaction in what we have accomplished, great optimism over what is ahead and great pride that we are restoring General Motors as America’s standard bearer in the global auto industry,”  Akerson said in a message to employees.

With 33 years of experience at GM, Barra has risen through a series of manufacturing, engineering, and senior staff positions.  She is a leader in the company’s ongoing turnaround, revitalizing GM’s product development process resulting in the launch of critically acclaimed new products while delivering record product quality ratings and higher customer satisfaction.

“With an amazing portfolio of cars and trucks and the strongest financial performance in our recent history, this is an exciting time at today’s GM,” said Barra. “I’m honored to lead the best team in the business and to keep our momentum at full speed.”

Dan Ammann, 41, executive vice president and chief financial officer, was named company president and will assume responsibility for managing the company’s regional operations around the world.  The global Chevrolet and Cadillac brand organizations and GM Financial will also report to Ammann.

Daniel Ammann - GM Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Ammann joined GM in 2010 where his first assignment was to manage GM’s initial public offering. As CFO, he has led a transformation of GM’s finance operations into a world-class organization.  He also led the strategy to rebuild the company’s captive finance capability through the successful establishment and growth of GM Financial.

“We have a significant opportunity to further integrate and optimize our operations to deliver even better results,” said Ammann.  “While we have made good progress, we still have much work ahead of us to realize GM’s full potential.”

Ammann will retain CFO responsibilities at least through the release of the company’s fourth quarter and full-year 2013 results in early February 2014.  His replacement as CFO will be named later.

Mark Reuss, 50, executive vice president and president, North America, will replace Barra as executive vice president, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain.  Under Reuss’ watch, GM’s North America region has produced consistent profits and improved margins during a product renaissance that includes the launch of award-winning cars and trucks such as the Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Corvette, Impala and Silverado pickup.

Mark Reuss - GM Executive Vice President and President, North America

“The driver’s seat of designing and engineering the strongest product line up in GM’s history is the best seat to have,” said Reuss.  “We’re going to keep the pedal down on GM’s product resurgence and keep winning new customers.”

Alan Batey, currently senior vice president, Global Chevrolet and U.S. Sales and Marketing, will replace Reuss and is named Executive Vice President and President, North America.  Batey, 50, joined GM’s Vauxhall operation in 1979 and held several sales, service and marketing positions around the world.  In his current position, he has developed the Chevrolet brand’s Find New Roads advertising campaign and has overseen a sweeping upgrade of retail sales and service operations at hundreds of U.S. dealerships.

Alan Batey - GM Senior Vice President, Global Chevrolet Brand Chief & U.S. Sales and Marketing

“North America is the foundation of the GM turnaround story and I’m honored to help continue what Mark started,” said Batey.  “We remain committed to delivering the world’s best retail experience to match the world’s best cars and trucks.”

The company also announced that Steve Girsky, 51, vice chairman, Corporate Strategy, Business Development and Global Product Planning, will move to a senior advisor role until leaving the company in April 2014.  He will remain on the GM Board of Directors.

Stephen J. Girsky - GM Vice Chairman, Corporate Strategy, Business Development & Global Product Planning

Girsky led GM’s turnaround plan for Europe that has put that region’s operations back on a path to profitability.  He has also put GM’s OnStar unit at the forefront of in-vehicle connectivity and helped create GM Ventures to speed the commercialization of new technologies in GM vehicles.

“I share Dan’s pride for what the company has accomplished and his sense of optimism for a bright future,” said Girsky.  “This team is united in its commitment to building on the foundation that we have established.”

Under Akerson’s leadership, GM made swift progress as the company transformed from being majority owned by U.S. Treasury to being publicly traded and investment grade rated.

“My goals as CEO were to put the customer at the center of every decision we make, to position GM for long term success and to make GM a company that America can be proud of again,” Akerson said.  “We are well down that path, and I’m certain that our new team will keep us moving in that direction.”

Akerson was named GM Chairman and CEO on September 1, 2010.  He joined GM in 2009 as a member of its Board of Directors.  Since the company’s November 2010 Initial Public Offering, GM has recorded 15 consecutive quarters of profitability, has earned this year the best overall initial vehicle quality scores of any auto manufacturer, and has re-invested nearly $9 billion and created or retained more than 25,000 jobs at its U.S plants.

!NEW! Cabriolet Power: 200 hp Opel Cascada Turbo from 29,490 Euros

• Opel Cascada with new top 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine can now be ordered
• Optional new-generation IntelliLink system brings smartphone world into each Opel Cascada
• New chassis and roof colors expand the Opel Cascada Collection 2014

Opel Cascada with new 200 hp 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine

Even stronger, more attractive and more modern: the Opel Cascada is now also available with the 147 kW/200 hp version of the all-new 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine. The new-generation Turbo is the top-of-the-line unit in the Opel Cascada engine portfolio with powerful maximum torque of 300 Nm thanks to overboost. This powerhouse Opel Cascada is available for an entry-level price of 29,490 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

Opel Cascada with new 200 hp 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo  - Two tail pipes

The Cascada has even more new features on offer, with the color collection 2014 boasting two new shades. The ten body colors already available are now joined by sophisticated Emerald Green and classic Magnetic Silver. In addition, the year-round convertible’s premium soft-top, which can be opened in 17 seconds at driving speeds up to 50 km/h, can now be ordered in a fourth color, Khaki Grey. In the cockpit, the Cascada offers the state-of-the-art, very user-friendly and fast IntelliLink infotainment system. With this, driver and passengers can simply bring their smartphone world into the Opel Cascada.

Opel Cascada with new 200 hp Direct Injection Turbo 1.6 ECOTEC  - TURBO emblem with red lettering

“Our year-round, all-season Cascada convertible introduced in the spring now offers even more choice – with an additional top-of-the-line engine, our trendsetting IntelliLink infotainment system and elegant colors,” says Opel Management Board Member for Sales Peter Küspert. “Now all potential cabriolet customers can look at our extensive convertible offer and choose the Cascada that best fits their needs and wishes. At the same time, we again show that we offer innovative technologies in attractive packages at very affordable prices.”

1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo: Top torque with economical fuel consumption

New Opel 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo: the new-generation Turbo is the top-of-the-line unit in the Cascada engine portfolio with powerful maximum torque of 300 Nm thanks to overboost.

147 kW/200 hp output, 300 Nm maximum torque thanks to overboost and 235 km/h top speed – the high-performance 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo from Opel’s new-generation engine family that made its world premiere in the Opel Cascada at this year’s IAA is now available to order. The engine is one of the all-new Opel four-cylinder units with gasoline direct injection and in this second, new variant marks the top of Opel’s 1.6 liter class. The Cascada features exemplary elasticity, accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h in just 9.2 seconds in fifth gear. In spite of its top performance figures, the mid-size convertible consumes only 6.7 liters fuel per 100 km (158 g/km CO2) in the combined cycle.

The new 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with 147 kW/200 hp rounds off the Cascada engine portfolio on the top end, with four gasoline units now available. It joins the 1.4 Turbo with 88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp as well as the 125 kW/170 hp 1.6 liter gasoline direct injection unit. On the diesel side, a 2-liter turbo diesel with 121 kW/165 hp and the 143 kW/195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI are available. Both need just 5.2 liters fuel per 100 km and emit 138 g/km CO2, easily earning them the German A energy efficiency label.

New body and roof colors make Opel Cascada even more individual

The new body colors underscore the Cascada’s powerful, elegant appearance. Cascada customers can now also choose the sophisticated pearlescent Emerald Green lacquer or the double-layer metallic Magnetic Silver paint. And Opel also expands the offer for the roof. The premium soft-top with exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation can now also be ordered in light Khaki Grey, increasing the selection to four roof colors.

Innovative Opel IntelliLink infotainment technology now also for Cascada

Opel Cascada - Navi 950 IntelliLink 

With Opel’s new-generation IntelliLink system, state-of-the-art infotainment technology including fast, user-friendly navigation and voice control makes its way into the Cascada cockpit. Easy operation is guaranteed via a seven-inch, high-resolution color monitor that also displays images from the optional rearview camera. The system features Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming, while the top-of-the-line Navi 950 IntelliLink contains maps of all of Europe. Map updates can be downloaded via USB. The driver can also for example have the system read out incoming text messages. In addition to voice control over IntelliLink, the new Opel system also supports and integrates smartphones’ own voice recognition functions.

!NEW! Opel four-valve engines look back on 100 year tradition

First four-valve engine: In 1913, Opel developed a new generation of racing cars for the Grand Prix de France, a forerunner of today’s formula one races.

1913 Grand Prix car: First Opel with four-valve engine

Opel Kadett GSi 16V: First Opel volume model with four-valves per cylinder

Opel Calibra Turbo 4x4: First Opel with gasoline turbo engine

Opel ECOTEC DTI 16V: First direct injection turbo diesel with four-valve technology

Opel 1.0 ECOTEC Turbo

Opel 1.6 ECOTEC Turbo

Opel 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC

The all-new turbocharged 1.6 liter gasoline and diesel engines which began the current renewal of Opel’s powertrain portfolio, and the compact 1.0 three-cylinder turbo that made its world premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show, are the latest in a long line of Opel engines with four valves per cylinder that stretches back 100 years.

In 1913, Opel developed a new generation of racing cars for the Grand Prix de France, a forerunner of today’s formula one races.

1913 Grand Prix car - First Opel with four-valve engine

Opel produced three of these cars, each one built down to a rigorous weight limit of only 1000 kg. The real highlight, however, was under the hood, where an innovative new four-cylinder power unit provided the motive force.

First four-valve engine: In 1913, Opel developed a new generation of racing cars for the Grand Prix de France, a forerunner of today’s formula one races.

In addition to an aluminum crankcase and a single camshaft in the cylinder head, the 4.5 liter, 110 hp engine also featured two intake valves and two exhaust valves per cylinder – Opel’s first internal combustion engine with four valves per cylinder.

From “Green Monster” to Ascona 400

Opel Green Monster 

Opel further developed the concept the following year, resulting in the most gigantic automobile the company has ever made – the 12.3 liter “Opel Rennwagen”, also known as “Das grüne Monster”, the “Green Monster”.

Opel Green Monster - 12.3 liter 4-valve engine developed a huge 260 hp

The revised 12.3 liter 4-valve engine developed a huge 260 hp, capable of propelling the 2000 kg “Monster” to a maximum speed of 228 km/h!

Opel works racing driver, Carl Joerns, scored most of his victories in this magnificent car, especially in beach races on the Danish island of Fanø.

Four valves per cylinder went out of fashion throughout the automotive industry in the 1920s. They did not reappear until the late 1950s, in motor racing, and it was via rallying that Opel introduced the technology to its road cars in 1979.

In order to compete in group 4, the top class of rallying at the time, with the Ascona 400, Opel had to produce a “road-going” model. While the rally-thoroughbred featured a newly developed, 177 kW (240 hp), 4-valve power unit, the homologation-special was equipped with a 140-hp version of the 2.4-liter engine.

1979 Opel Ascona 400 -  Rally version

Despite this detuning, the “street-legal” Ascona 400 was still good enough for a maximum speed of 200 km/h and zero to 100 km/h-acceleration in 7.6 seconds.

1979 Opel Ascona 400 -  Road version

In the 1980s, four-valve engines became increasingly attractive, not only because of their inherent horsepower-advantage, but also because of their lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emissions.

1988 Opel Kadett GSi - 2.0 16V engine produced 110 kW (150 hp)

When Opel introduced the legendary Kadett GSi 16V in 1988, the brand’s first volume-model with four valves per cylinder, it immediately became an industry-icon.

1988 Opel Kadett GSi 2.0 16V 

Opel 2.0 16V DOHC – The engine to beat

The technological highlight of the new high performance engine designed by Dr. Fritz Indra was its aluminum cylinder head developed in cooperation with Cosworth, the famous English racing engine builder.

Opel 2.0 16V DOHC Engine

The sporty engine 2.0 16V produced 110 kW (150 hp) and maximum torque of 196 Nm at 4800 rpm. Ninety-percent of this torque was already available in a wide rev-band between 3100 and 6000 rpm.

With its specific fuel consumption of 232 g/kWh, equivalent to an efficiency rating of 37 percent, the engine was a long-standing benchmark for specific fuel consumption in four-cylinder power units.

The Opel 2.0 16V became the engine to beat in many other disciplines, too – in Formula 3 motor racing, for example, which produced so many future F1-stars like Michael Schumacher, Jarno Trulli, Nick Heidfeld and Alexander Wurz. During the classic era from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s, Opel F3 engines established themselves as the most successful in the world.

Opel Formula 3 

Despite factory-supported competition from Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and VW, Opel scored 164 F3 victories in Germany alone, plus another 30 national championship titles around the world.

Opel Formula 3 

Opel rapidly spread four-valves per cylinder to the rest of its powertrain portfolio.

The company applied four-valve technology to the smooth-running, inline six-cylinder engine in its top-of-the-line models, Omega and Senator, in 1989.

Four valves per cylinder + “Dual Ram” = Omega 3000 24V

Think big: Opel applied four-valve technology to the smooth-running, inline six-cylinder engine in its top-of-the-line models, Omega and Senator, in 1989.

1989 Opel Omega 3.0 24V  

Thanks to the so-called “Dual Ram” induction system the engine was famous for its impressive power delivery at low revs. With 90 percent of the 270 Nm maximum torque available between 3000 and 5800 rpm, the Omega 3000 24V, for example, could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds.

1989 Opel Omega 3000 24V  

By the way, the 3000 24V also provided the basis for the strongest Omega ever, the Lotus Omega, which was powered by a 3.6 liter, twin-turbocharged version of the engine developing 277 kW (377 hp). At the time, the Lotus Omega ranked just behind an extremely powerful Alpina limo as the fastest production-sedan in the world.

Lotus Omega 3.6 24V BiTurbo: The six-cylinder provided the basis for the strongest Omega ever, the Lotus Omega, which was powered by a 3.6 liter, twin-turbocharged version of the engine developing 277 kW (377 hp).

The 2.0 16V from the Kadett GSi provided the basis for the first Opel turbocharged gasoline engine, which made its world premiere at the 1991 Frankfurt motor show in the Calibra Turbo 4x4.

1991 Opel Calibra Turbo 4x4

The 150 kW (204 hp) 2.0 16V turbo was notable not only for its high torque of 280 Nm at only 2400 rpm, but also the turbocharger and the exhaust manifold, which were integrated in a single component. The extremely low thermal losses of this integrated system significantly increased the efficiency of the turbocharger.

With all wheel drive: The 2.0 16V from the Kadett GSi provided the basis for the first Opel turbocharged gasoline engine, which made its world premiere at the 1991 Frankfurt motor show in the Calibra Turbo 4x4.

Despite the 42-percent higher torque and 36-percent higher power-output of the 2.0 16V Turbo compared with the naturally aspirated version, the average fuel consumption of both engines in the Calibra was almost the same – 8.9 versus 8.7 l/100 km.

This tradition of high performance and high efficiency begun by the 2.0 16V in 1988 continues today with the new 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo gasoline engines.

Opel 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo: New powerful and highly efficient gasoline engine with 170 and 200 hp

Opel’s reputation for innovative four-valve engines reached another peak in 1996 when the company became the first automobile manufacturer to combine the advantages of four-valve technology with diesel direct-injection and turbocharging.

Direct - Injection Turbo diesels with patented valve train

Opel ECOTEC DTI 16V: Opel’s reputation for innovative four-valve engines reached another peak in 1996 when the company became the first automobile manufacturer to combine the advantages of four-valve technology with diesel direct-injection and turbocharging.

The ECOTEC DTI 16V diesels delivered high low-end torque, as well as low fuel consumption and emissions. The performance spectrum of the 2.0 and 2.2 liter engines stretched from 60 kW (82 hp) and 74 kW (100 hp) up to 92 kW (125 hp). They featured a patented valve-train operated by a single overhead camshaft.

The introduction of the all-new, four-cylinder, 1.6 liter CDTI turbo family earlier this year demonstrates how Opel continues to play a leading role in diesel engine development.

New Opel 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC - Euro 6 diesel engine

Featuring closed-loop combustion control and an aluminum block, the new 1.6 CDTI is the first diesel from Opel to comply with future Euro 6 emissions requirements, delivering climate friendliness, low fuel consumption, class-leading refinement, and high power/torque density.

Drivers can look forward to more such benefits in the immediate future, as Opel continues its current product-offensive and long-standing tradition of technological innovation. By 2016, the Rüsselsheim manufacturer will have renewed 80 percent of its powertrain portfolio.