!NEW! 100,000 Opel Mokka SUV Already Ordered, Now Even More Variety

• Over 100,000 orders have already been received from across Europe
• 1.4 liter Turbo now also with front wheel drive with manual or automatic transmission
• High-end infotainment systems and premium Bose Sound System 

Opel Mokka SUV - New Orange Rock metallic color

The Opel Mokka has become an absolute best seller just seven months after its arrival at dealerships. Opel has received more than 100,000 orders for the trendy sub-compact SUV which is especially popular in Germany, Russia, UK, Italy and France. But the hugely successful Opel model isn’t going to rest on its laurels: the 103 kW/140 hp 1.4 liter Turbo gasoline model is now also available with front wheel drive and six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. New infotainment offers and premium Bose sound system ensure a top-class entertainment program. For fresh glamor, new optional design for 19-inch alloy wheels and the trendy Orange Rock metallic color are available.

Opel Mokka SUV - New 19-inch alloy wheels

“The Opel Mokka is a huge success just a few months after its market launch – it is a hit both with customers and trade experts. This is also underlined by the many awards our newcomer has already received, including the All-wheel car of the Year,” says Duncan Aldred, Acting Vice President Sales, Marketing & Aftersales at Opel/Vauxhall. “To keep it headed to the top, we’re making the Mokka even more attractive with new powertrains and high-end infotainment units – and thereby appealing to additional customers”

New inner qualities: Turbo with front wheel drive, infotainment from Bose

The Mokka powertrain portfolio is now expanded by another attractive alternative: while the 1.4 Turbo gasoline unit was initially only available with adaptive all-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission, customers can now order the 103 kW/140 hp Mokka version with front wheel drive and six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. With six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop, the SUV consumes just 5.9 liters gasoline per 100 km and emits only 139 g/km CO₂. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 9.9 seconds and reaches maximum speed of 193 km/h.

The Mokka’s interior is just as convincing with the new infotainment systems CD 600 with IntelliLink and Navi 950 with IntelliLink. Easy operation of on-board electronics is ensured over a high-resolution, 7-inch color display, where the image from the optional rear camera is also displayed. Bluetooth connectivity for telephoning and audio streaming is also available.

The Navi 950 with IntelliLink comes standard with comprehensive map material, covering all Europe and it can be updated by simple download over the USB port. The premium Bose system provides top-class sound with six loudspeakers, subwoofer and digital amplifier.

Opel Mokka SUV - New Navi 950 with Intellink

The qualities found in the Mokka‘s interior are reflected in its attractive exterior. The muscular Opel SUV is a real eye-catcher with its new Orange Rock metallic color and optional 19-inch alloy wheels in a new five-spoke design.

Convincing attributes: Compact dimensions, extensive everyday utility

The Mokka cuts a fine figure in both urban and extra-urban settings; it meets all daily needs and is ideally suited for sport-filled weekends. With a length of 4.28 meters it offers plenty of room for five occupants and a higher seating position. It makes innovative features from higher vehicle classes available to a larger customer base. These include Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+), ergonomic seats with the  Aktion Gesunder Rücken (AGR) (Campaign for Healthier Backs) seal of quality and the second generation of the integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier – all features the Mokka introduced into this SUV segment.

There is also a host of technologies available that increase driving comfort and safety, including the Electronic Stability Program (ESP^Plus) with Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC), the second-generation Opel Eye front camera with Forward Collision Alert (FCA) as well as enhanced Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR II) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The Mokka can also be equipped with front or All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The 4x4 system recognizes when traction is needed at all four wheels and ensures it is provided at maximum levels.  

Prices for the new front-wheel drive model with the 1.4 liter Turbo gasoline engine and six-speed automatic transmission start at 23.480 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). A manual transmission version is also offered in most markets.

!NEW! Opel in the first quarter of 2013: Growth in market share in the Czech and Slovak Republic and in All Europe

• Opel begins attack the second position of the European passenger car market
• Progress of orders promises continued strengthening brand position
• Clearly declared support from GM increases client confidence

Opel ADAM 

While the vast majority of "bulk" of competing brands losing their positions Opel in Europe, on the contrary reinforces: During the first quarter in Europe (EU + EFTA) sold 209,000 cars Opel, which makes Opel increased its market share to 6.7% and confirms Already last year, started the campaign for the position of "twos" European passenger car market. "From the fifth place, we have to work through the end of last year through the French competition to the third position - and now literally breathe on his back yet another Ford," says Pavel Šilha, Managing Director Czech and Slovak representation of Opel.

Opel thrive and grow market share in a declining domestic market. "In the Passenger Cars + Light Commercial Vehicles segment during the first quarter we increased market share of 2.41%, an increase of 24% compared to the same period of 2012," says Josef Šopík, sales director of Opel in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. "We are confident that we will maintain this trend in the coming months as each month registering a higher order."

Opel Mokka SUV

The positive results of Opel in the Czech Republic and Europe have the greatest merit attractive models, which recently swelled into production and is now beginning to fully promote the sales statistics. Literally hit as the Opel Mokka compact SUV, which has only a few months after the launch to his credit already over 100,000 orders. "Great attention is also drawn to the extremely adaptable minimodel ADAM ai responses to Cascada convertible promise a decent income," says director Šilha sales results Opel models. "Personally, I much promise from approaching motor coaching - in most of our models appear completely new diesel and gasoline engines, whose parameters are the absolute top of what is today's automotive market to buy!"

It is hard to measure, but in daily contact with customers is quite obvious trend of building confidence in the brand. "A clear declaration of full support for Opel by parent company General Motors coupled with huge investment in the development and production apparently calmed the situation and restore the confidence of clients," says Pavel Šilha. GM two weeks ago announced that in the coming years to invest in Opel model offensive 4 billion Euros , making the German automaker will present in 2016 a total of 23 new models and 13 new engines. And yesterday, GM "throwing" an additional investment of 230 million Euros to build a new testing capabilities in its European design center in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and the nearby test track Dudenhofen.

"General Motors needs a strong presence in Europe in the design, development, production and sales - and Opel in this respect is a key factor in our success and has our full support," does not admit any doubt Dan Akerson, chairman and CEO of General Motors.

!NEW! Opel sent "Germany's Next Top Model" contestant to the desert

Lifestyle Streaker star in the new commercial with candidate Lovelyn

Model Lovelyn Enebechi with new Opel ADAM

High voltage in yesterday's broadcast of "Germany's Next Top Model": The eight remaining candidates do their best to grab the lead in the new commercial for the Opel ADAM. Director Tim Loehr makes an exact image of mutability of the candidates. In three different "gangs" have the "Germany's Next Top Model" hopefuls set with a ADAM Scene: Tough and agile as "Sporty gear" with the ADAM SLAM, elegant and graceful as a "fashion path" in fancy dress to match the ADAM GLAM and dance-clock safe in "Music Program" for ADAM JAM. The winner of the casting: the 16-year-old Lovelyn Enebechi.

As in the casting is also in the new ad the versatility of "Germany's Next Top Model" contestant asked finally Individuality is the new Opel ADAM program. The agency Scholz & Friends created for Opel as the official broadcast partner of a spot in the Lovelyn dressed appropriately for each ADAM variation always passes through the California desert. Where "driving" is an understatement, as the clip shows. The spot can be seen since last night on YouTube and Facebook, and is shown in the context of the show on TV. From mid-May, he also comes in German movie theaters.

Opel is the second time after 2012, official partner of the Pro7 show "Germany's Next Top Model". Even before the eighth season Opel had switched advertising and sponsorship spots that show as the ADAM stylish partner for young, fashion-conscious motorists. To accompany the fans of the show on the Internet a lot of information to ADAM. Under the motto "Win Your ADAM" all interested parties on the proprietary website www.opeladam.de easily configure their personal lifestyle racer. Take it to win the grand prize - and part of the weekly lottery with attractive prizes - their individual Opel ADAM. In addition, the website provides extensive information about Adam and his three worlds Equipment ADAM JAM, ADAM and ADAM GLAM SLAM available.

!NEW! GM to invest 230 Million Euros in Opel / Vauxhall European Product Development Center

• European Product Development Center strengthened as integral part of the global GM development network
• Main investment in new dynamometer lab on Ruesselsheim campus
• Additional new chassis testing capabilities at Dudenhofen proving grounds

GM announced today that it will invest 230 Million Euros for new testing facilities into its European Product Development Center at the Opel headquarters in Ruesselsheim and at the proving ground in Dudenhofen. The investment will be executed in the next three to four years. It only comes two weeks after GM’s Board of Directors visit of the European Opel/Vauxhall operations and a commitment to invest 4 billion Euros for future product between 2013 and 2016.

The announcement is a further step in GM’s efforts to strengthen its European brand Opel/Vauxhall and – at the same time - GM’s global product development resources by enhancing the company’s overall flexibility, speed and efficiency and investing in to global common tools and equipment. Moreover the investment is a key enabler for Opel/Vauxhall in the development of next generation engines and compliance with European and global emission regulations. The investment also includes a new fuel station, audio lab and safety analysis building.

“This significant investment will last for decades and it will secure the future of the European Product Development Center” said Opel CEO and President GM Europe Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “The development done at Ruesselsheim will be on engines and transmissions for Europe and the rest of the world. This move will give us global responsibility in engine development”, added Dr. Neumann.

New dynamometers for engines will replace older equipment to allow for development of the following generation of powertrains for 2020 and beyond. More than that, flexible test cells to enable improved operational efficiencies will be implemented. This state-of-the-art-lab will then be linked to GM’s powertrain facilities in Pontiac and Torino.

As part of the investment, the proving grounds at Dudenhofen will also gain new capabilities, with a soak area, new workshop and vehicle dynamometers for important ultra-low emission testing. This globally common GM-equipment will also allow similar test procedures and comparable data.

On top of that the management board and the works council earlier this week have agreed to more flexible working conditions at the European Product Development Center in Ruesselsheim with more than 6,000 highly qualified employees. This accord is based on the Master Agreement from March 28, 2013.

The investment into Opel’s design, vehicle engineering, powertrain operations and human resources further demonstrates GM’s commitment to enhance the local capability to position Opel and its sister-brand Vauxhall for long-term competitiveness and success.

With the additional technical resources and improvements, Opel and Vauxhall will continue to play an important role in designing, engineering and building new vehicles and powertrains for its own brands as well as other players in GM’s product portfolio.

The investment is still subject to the approval of the Opel Supervisory Board.

!NEW! 75 years Opel Kapitaen: Great birthday parade through Ruesselsheim

• 42 historical Kapitaens of the years 1938 to 1953 at the start
• Departure from the Opel plant to the castle Westerhaus
• Magnificent classic car show on the Bahnhofplatz

On Saturday (April 27) in 9.45 clock meet at the Bahnhofplatz in Ruesselsheim Opel beautiful Kapitaens    from the years 1938 until 1953. A total of 42 vehicles travel on that day by the Opel plant along the former Kapitaen of the production hall and then through the main entrance to the station earlier Opel in Ruesselsheim place to introduce yourself there for about an hour with their owners. The classic car parade takes place on the occasion of the 75th anniversary - the end of 1938, the first Opel Kapitaen rolled off the assembly line.

The Old Classic Opel IG and the Department of the Adam Opel AG jointly organize this visual feast for participants and spectators. 40 vehicles are driven by their owners from the Old Opel IG, two captains of the years 1950 and 1952 are from the Opel Classic workshop. Around 10:45 clock the convoy of Opel sedans then rolls toward Westerwinkel house, located since 1900 in the family of Opel. Today, the castle and winery in the fourth generation of the great-granddaughter of the Rüsselsheim car maker, Ivonne Countess of Schoenburg-Glauchau out. Surrounded by vineyards, participants will be asked in the "Old Kelterhalle" the palace for lunch.

As a representative of the upper middle class, the 1938 Opel introduced between the captain compact Opel Kadett and the Opel Admiral ranked a representative. With self-supporting all-steel body and advanced drive technology available as two-and four-door sedan as well as a four-seater convertible in this vehicle class captain took a technical leadership role. The modern design of the six-cylinder, started in the first year with 2.5 liters and 55 hp, was in many stages of development for five decades, the hallmark of the great Opel vehicles. 1948 left the first post-Kapitaen in the old body style the work. And with the economic miracle then took the career of the Opel Kapitaen properly ride on. In the early sixties, now the pontoon construction was announced, the Opel was captain of its U.S. design language to the best-selling six-cylinder car in Germany.

!NEW! Opel continues on road to success in Israel

Opel Insignia official car for members of Israeli parliament

The Opel representatives Lutz Jäckel, Opel Director Sales, Marketing & Aftersales (left), and Jürgen Keller, Director International Operations (2nd from right), together with Asi Shmeltzer, Managing Director of the Shlomo Group (2nd from left) and Ilan Tal, Co-Managing Director of the Shlomo Group (right), handed over the first 25 of in total 120 Opel Insignia to members of the Israeli Knesset.

Members of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, now drive Opel. Fifty of the 120 members have an Insignia as their official car for business travel. Together with the Israeli Opel importer Shlomo Group, the automaker won the Knesset’s open call for tenders for its vehicle fleet. The first 25 cars were now delivered to parliament representatives in Jerusalem by Jürgen Keller, Director International Operations at Opel, Lutz Jäckel, Director Sales, Marketing, Aftersales at Opel and Asi Shmeltzer, Managing Director of the Shlomo Group.

“The Israeli market has an important role in our export offensive. The fact that we were able to win over parliament members, a group of important opinion leaders, is impressive confirmation of the success of our brand in Israel,” said Jürgen Keller as the vehicles were delivered, and added, "This clearly shows that Opel continues strengthening its successful position in Israel.”

Together with the Shlomo Group, Opel already launched the brand’s activities on the Israeli market in 2011. As exclusive importer, Shlomo has a widespread sales network of eight sales centers and 14 service stations. Around 5,000 new cars were already sold in Israel in 2012. 

Opel models are now sold in eight locations in Israel with the opening of the latest site in Jerusalem on April 15, 2013.

!NEW! GM Purchases Remaining Shares in Tychy Plant

Today, General Motors Co. signed an agreement to purchase the remaining 40% shares of Isuzu Motors Polska Sp. Z o.o. (ISPOL) from Isuzu Motors. The signing ceremony took place at the ISPOL plant in Tychy, Poland. From now on, the plant where currently Circle L 1.7l diesel engines are built will operate as “GM Powertrain Poland”.

GM Tychy Plant in Poland

GM has already owned 60% interest of the engine plant since 2002. Its purchase of the remaining 40% underlines the importance of Europe for GM, as this is one of the most competitive car markets in the world with highest customer demands in terms of fuel economy and CO2 standards.

At a glance

The Tychy plant was established in 1996 and started production in 1999. Since then the plant manufactured over 2 million engines for Opel/Vauxhall. The engines are for the models Corsa, Meriva, Combo, Astra and Zafira.

The plant’s mission is “To build Europe’s best diesel engine”. Tychy is proud to have the certificates ISO 14001and ISO/ TS 16949:2009 and set a high value on safety at work.

The engines of the joint venture, thanks to low fuel consumption, operational reliability and environmental friendliness, are placed among the worldwide Diesel power train leaders.

History of the Tychy Plant:

• 1996 Foundation of the company: 100% ownership by Isuzu Motors Limited
• 1999 Start of production for Opel
• 1999 “Supplier of the year” award from General Motors
• 2001- 2005 Production of engines for Honda
• 2001- 2008 Production of engines for Mercury Mercruiser motor boats
• 2002 GM took over 60% interest of Isuzu Motors Polska (ISPOL)
• 2004 Manufacturing of 1 million engines
• 2006 Start of production of NCL 125 - new generation engine
• 2008 The facility becomes a “Landfill Free Plant” (manage the plant's waste without sending material to a landfill depository)
• 2009 Manufacturing of 2 million engines and 10th anniversary
• 2009 ISPOL becomes part of the Opel/Vauxhall organization
• 2010 Start of production of D1 - new engine entirely designed by GM
• 2010 Start of production of NCL engine with automatic transmission
• 2011 8 million worked hours without lost work day case
• 2011 The plant received the national award of Employer Employees Focused 

!NEW! General Motors (GM) 2013 Sales Reach 1 Million in China

General Motors (GM) sold its 1 millionth vehicle in China yesterday, the earliest it has ever done this in a calendar year.

GM first sold 1 million vehicles in a single year in China in December of 2007. Last year GM reached the milestone on May 7. On April 22, GM achieved it again -- and the earliest in the company’s history.

“This is a great start to the year and a big accomplishment for our team,” said Bob Socia, President, GM China, and Chief Country Operations Officer, China, India and ASEAN. “We will continue bringing new products and expanding our dealerships to boost sales.”

GM and its joint ventures are adding to their product lineups by launching 17 new and upgraded models in China this year. They include the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback; the new Wuling Sunshine; two new Jiefang light-duty trucks, the S230 and F330; and the Insignia Sports Tourer (ST), Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC from Opel.

The company is also expanding its dealer network to make it easier for its customers in China to buy and service their vehicles. It is adding 400 dealers in 2013 alone, which will give it 4,200 dealers at year end.

General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 55,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China. It has been the sales leader among global automakers in the market for eight consecutive years.

!NEW! 1.6 SIDI Turbo: Top Gasoline Unit for Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

New generation Turbo gasoline engine delivers 125 kW/170 hp

Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 SIDI Turbo is torque champion in the segment with up to 280 Nm

Exemplary refinement and smooth power with excellent fuel economy

New generation six-speed manual and automatic transmissions 

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV 1.6 SIDI Turbo 125 kW/170 hp

Following its debut in the Opel Cascada convertible, the 1.6 SIDI Turbo from the new family of mid-size gasoline engines with 125 kW/170 hp now tops the Opel Zafira Tourer gasoline offer. The all-new direct injection engine stands out with its maximum torque of up to 280 Nm – 12% more than its closest competitor in the segment of the 150-180 hp compact monocabs. Low-end torque and elasticity are also benchmark, with the maximum torque already available at 1,650 rpm, providing smooth acceleration and strong pulling power. The new 1.6 SIDI Turbo in the Zafira Tourer is also designed to offer superior refinement with exceptionally low noise and vibration levels. In addition, its fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are among the best in the segment with only 6.6 liters per 100 km (combined cycle) and 154 g/km CO₂ , thanks to modern technology including the Opel Start/Stop system.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV with Panoramic windshield

The new generation 1.6 SIDI Turbo engine in the Opel Zafira Tourer also comes with a new generation six-speed manual transmission. It matches the highest standard in the segment for fast and smooth shifting thanks to numerous measures that have been implemented in the transmission internals and shifter mechanism as well as the reduction of shift travels. A new, low-friction six-speed automatic transmission featuring an Active Select function to allow manual shifting for a more sporty driving experience is also available.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV with LED tail lights

Prices for the new Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 SIDI Turbo start at 28,155 euros and 29,450 euros with the six-speed automatic gearbox (RRP in Germany). It can now be ordered and deliveries will start before the summer.

The new 1.6 SIDI Turbo is one of the three major engines to be introduced in the Zafira Tourer in 2013. The others are the 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI which makes it the fastest diesel-powered compact monocab, and the new generation 1.6 CDTI that reduces NOx emissions by 70 percent and already complies with Euro 6 emissions standards. The state-of-the-art engine also combines 320 Nm of maximum torque with fuel consumption of 4.1 liters per 100 km and emits just 109 g/km CO₂ – outstanding values for a spacious seven-seater.

Art of engineering: Higher and quieter performance

The new 1.6 SIDI Turbo engine completes and tops the gasoline engine offer in the Zafira Tourer. It joins the 85 kW/115 hp naturally aspirated 1.8 liter and the two 1.4 Turbo engine versions with 88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp.

While all competitors provide maximum torque of 240 - 250 Nm, the Zafira Tourer 1.6 SIDI Turbo delivers up to 280 Nm between 1,650 and 4,250 rpm. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds, offers excellent elasticity with acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear in just 9.5 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 212 km/h.

New Opel ECOTEC 1.6 SIDI Turbo gasoline engine

To provide excellent performance and refinement for optimum driving comfort, the key engine development objectives for engineers with the new 1.6 SIDI engine were low overall levels of radiated noise and vibration. Optimization of the induction and exhaust systems included decoupling the cam cover from the cylinder head via specific fasteners and a dedicated sealing system. 

With direct injection and focused combustion, engineers were able to substantially reduce noise levels compared to the previous engine. As a result of these ‘sound-engineering’ measures, the customer will appreciate quiet and smooth idling, with a pleasant sound quality even at high road speeds, engine speeds and loads.

“Our new 1.6-liter downsized engine is the start of a fundamental renewal of our powertrain portfolio. It is distinguished by powerful propulsion at low rpms and is especially quiet and environmentally compatible,” says Mike Ableson, Opel Management Board Member and GME Vice President Engineering. “The 1.6 SIDI Turbo now also brings all its strengths to our elegant flexibility champion, the Zafira Tourer, making it a superb and very comfortable compact van.”

Award winning “Lounge on wheels”: Premium-level equipment and trim

The award winning Opel Zafira Tourer – recipient of the 2012 ‘Golden Steering Wheel’ from readers of European car magazines – combines premium class ambience inside the cabin with cutting-edge technologies, some of which are unique in the segment and enhance safety and comfort. Technical highlights include the mechatronic FlexRide chassis system, the second-generation Opel Eye front camera, the AFL+ Adaptive Forward Lighting system, Radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Advanced Park Assist (APA) and a Panoramic windshield which floods the cabin with natural light.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV- 2nd Gen. Front Camera 

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV - ACC, AFL+,  APA

Extra flexibility inside the Opel Zafira Tourer is provided by the new generation Flex7 system, including the unique Lounge Seating functions which give passengers an unprecedented amount of space in the second row.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV - Lounge Seating System

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV - Flex7 System

!NEW! Opel back at the Shanghai Motor Show: Insignia ST, Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer MPV

Opel Insignia ST

Three models, arriving in the Chinese market this year, are at the heart of the Opel exhibition space at the Shanghai Motor Show (April 20 – 29). After an absence of five years, Opel is back at China’s main Motor Show and presenting the Insignia ST (Sports Tourer), Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer. Also on display is the Opel Antara mid-range SUV, todays Opel’s best-selling model in China.

Opel Astra GTC

“The three new Opel entries will broaden the brand’s product lineup in China to help satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of Chinese vehicle buyers. They embody Opel’s proud heritage of German engineering and technology excellence. With these award-winning models we are making a highly attractive offer to our Chinese customers in three more different market segments. ”, said Jürgen Keller, Director International Operations, Adam Opel AG.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

The new models represent three types of vehicles, becoming more and more popular among China’s growing younger generation: station wagons, MPV’s and coupes. “They tend to seek out distinctive and fresh products to enrich their lifestyles and set them apart. They demand high-quality details and stylish character in the things they buy. Opel products are well suited to meet the demands of these younger consumers”, said Keller. The Insignia ST will go on sale at all Opel dealerships across China shortly after the Shanghai Motor Show. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC will go on sale in the second half of 2013. Last year, Opel sold about 4,500 cars in China with 22 dealers.

Opel Antara SUV

Opel’s activities on the Chinese market are part of an ongoing export offensive. In the past 24 months, the brand has successfully entered markets as Israel, Singapore, Chile, Australia and the United Arab Emirates. Opel will continue to look for export opportunities, assuming it makes business sense.

General Motors and its joint ventures will display more than 50 different vehicle models at Auto Shanghai 2013. The products range from small cars to luxury passenger vehicles to light-duty trucks from the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 55,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China.

!NEW! Transmission production Anniversary at Opel in Rüsselsheim

• Factory produced the millionth copy of the manual six-speed gearbox
• Overall, more than 11 million transmissions from Rüsselsheim since 1899

Marc Schiff, Executive Director of Manufacturing (2nd from right), plant director Axel Scheiben  (1st from right), production director Michael Eiermann (1st from left) and Albert Hoehn, Director of Transmission Plant (2nd from left) with the anniversary copy.

In the Rüsselsheim plant today was attended by Executive Director Manufacturing, Marc ship factory director Axel discs, the one millionth copy of the manual six-speed gearbox F40 from the assembly line. The 50 kg light transmission with aluminum housing provides maximum comfort and control can transmit up to 400 Newton meters of torque. It comes in the model series Astra, Insignia, Zafira Tourer and Antara used.

Albert Hoehn, Director of the transmission plant: "We work with state of the art manufacturing facilities. Means that only transmissions are shipped in highest quality to our customers, our qualified employees ensure their experience and commitment. "

With its entry into the automobile production in 1899 in Rüsselsheim Opel has started the production of gears. To date, over eleven million units were produced at the site. The current six-speed manual gearbox is manufactured since April 2003. The F40 transmission is produced in three series: a series of front-wheel drive vehicles, for a four-wheel drive vehicles and one for the high-performance OPC models. In its latest generation, it offers the customer Schaltpräsizion and shift comfort at the highest level.

The transmission from Rüsselsheim to be installed not only in the European Opel plants in Rüsselsheim, Bochum, Ellesmere Port (Great Britain) and Gliwice (Poland) in the vehicles - they are also used within the Group of GM. Rüsselsheim provides, for example, in the USA, Canada, Australia and South Korea, where the transmission used in vehicles from Buick and Chevrolet.

!NEW! Opel ADAM Wins “Red Dot Design Award”

Urban lifestyle car recognized for unconventional, trend-setting design

New individualization champion continues rich Opel “red dot” tradition

The Opel ADAM is all the rage with experts and customers alike thanks to its unconventional looks and groundbreaking technology. Most recent proof of this is the renowned “red dot design award” which the 37-member jury of international experts now awarded to Opel’s individualization champion.

As winner of the “product design 2013” award in the “Automotive and Transport” category, the ADAM successfully “asserted itself against extremely intense competition”. Over 30,000 orders have already been received for the stylish Opel newcomer, which captivates with “aesthetic shapes and sustainable trends” according to the experts. “We seamlessly continue our tradition of ‘red dot design award’ victories of the last years with our new lifestyle car and make a strong statement in terms of innovative power,” says Niels Loeb, Opel Chief Designer Exterior. “With our ADAM, we once again show that we can offer superb design in every passenger car segment and for every taste.”

The new ADAM is the fourth Opel “Red Dot design award” winner since 2009. Previously the mid-size Insignia, the Astra Sports Tourer and the compact Astra GTC coupé were awarded the coveted “red dot”. This is further proof that Opel’s design language “sculptural artistry meets German precision” that was introduced with the Insignia is very well received by both customers and experts.

This year there were more applicants than ever before for the „red dot design award“. 1,865 companies and designers from 54 countries presented the expert jury a total of 4,662 products in 19 categories for consideration. The award will officially be presented at the “red dot gala” on July 1, 2013 in the Aalto Theater in Essen, and over 1,200 international guests from business, politics and media are expected to attend. The origins of the award, one of the largest and most renowned design competitions in the world today, date back to 1955.

Individualization champion and best connected small car

Individual design defines the Opel ADAM – there is no other car in this class in the world that can offer more than 61,000 variants for the exterior and nearly 82,000 for the interior. These range from 12 body colors and three additional combinable roof colors to 31 different wheel designs with unique clips and details like different headliners with LED illumination.

Inside, the ADAM features high-tech innovations like the IntelliLink infotainment system that is compatible with both iPhones and Android smartphones. This makes the ADAM the best connected small car, as it also supports SIRI Eyes Free voice recognition for iPhones. The lifestyle car also boasts a host of equipment and technology options that have at best been familiar from higher-class models until now. These include the latest generation Automatic Park Assist (APA), heated steering wheel, Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) and the integrated bicycle carrier FlexFix – all features worthy of accolades. A few weeks ago the unconventional Opel ADAM already won over the "Plus X Award” expert jury with its operating comfort, design, high quality and innovations.

Opel ADAM with fully integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier

!NEW! Daniel Wollinger gets the First place in the season opener of the Opel Corsa OPC Rally Cup

The young Styrian Daniel Wollinger wins the first OPC-Cup-2013 Running superior

Two Opel Cup teams in the Top 5 of Division II

Numerous spectators provided for unique Rally atmosphere

Daniel Wollinger gets the First place in the season opener of Opel Corsa OPC Rally Cup

Convincing launched the Opel Corsa OPC in the Lavant Cup Rally Rally powered by car4you in the second season. The motivated pilots and their teams who have pitched their tents around the Opel VIP tent in the service zone, the start could hardly expect more. The mood could not be better. They impressed fans and spectators alike - especially as the weather conditions would hardly can be difficult.

The total of 12 special stages were a mix of dry passages and partly frozen rain and ice on the roadway. The teams of the Opel Corsa OPC showed Rally Cup under these difficult conditions in spite of all outstanding performance.

Christoph Leitgeb at Second place

Daniel Wollinger and Christoph Leitgeb fought a thrilling head-to-head race. Leitgeb showed in the individual special a top performance at the end of the day Wollinger could with Bernhard Holzer, co, overall winner of the first season of the Corsa cups, without any errors and with 32.8 seconds turn the tide itself.

Alois Scheidhammer at Third place

"Due to the difficult weather conditions, the Lavant Valley Rally was a real challenge," said Willi Stengg, organizer of the Opel Cup. In addition, the team achieved excellent rankings in the overall standings. "The construction work of the Opel Corsa OPC was easier and faster. Daniel (Wollinger) and Christoph (Leitgeb) have really laid a great performance and reached the Division II 4th and 5 Space of 40 competing teams. "In the overall standings the two achieved the rank 11 and 12 in the most densely occupied rally.

Alois Scheidhammer provided a constant and stable performance enabled it to make a belated birthday present themselves - the team reached the third Place in the Cup. The newcomers, Gerhard Aigner, could surprise the audience by his good performance. He was unlucky in the 4th Special where his vehicle had to finish the competition on the first day by a loose connector in the engine control unit. Aigner was able to continue on Saturday at the Super Rally regulations, in the cup, he reached the fourth Place. Behind Koni Friesenegger fought against time. Daniel Zieser stuck his crash in the forest area in 2012 and came away positively in sixth place. Rene Rieder went from the beginning very good time and was in the special always among the top four overall, he scored the 7th Place. The other placings went to Gerhard Dworak and the rally novice, Thomas Mosburger.

Alexander Struckl, managing director of General Motors Austria GmbH, visited the Cup at the opening event. "It's nice to see the team motivated, you realize how enthusiastic they are. Congratulations to winner Daniel Wollinger and his co-driver Bernhard Holzer, 4th in Division II is really a fantastic result. I'm curious how the team will continue to develop throughout the season. "

In fact, we can still expect some surprises in the course of the Opel Corsa OPC Rally Cup. The second run is at 03 and 04 April 2013 in the exchange country rally across the stage - in the Styrian home of Willi Stengg. The Opel Corsa OPC Rally Cup teams will once again provide exciting rally action.

!NEW! GM and Opel Management meet German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel

From left: Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Management Board of Adam Opel AG and President General Motors Europe, Steve Girsky, Deputy Chairman of the GM Board and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Adam Opel AG, German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel , Daniel F. Akerson, GM Chairman & CEO as well as Ronald Pofalla, Chief of the German Chancellery.

German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel and Chief of the German Chancellery Ronald Pofalla today welcomed a delegation of GM Executives led by CEO Dan Akerson. Akerson was accompanied by Steve Girsky, Deputy Chairman of the GM Board and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Adam Opel AG, by Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Management Board of Adam Opel AG and President General Motors Europe, as well as Joachim Koschnicke, Vice President Public Policy at Adam Opel AG.

General Motors informed Chancellor Merkel about the deliberations that took place during the strategy conference (BOD) held from April 9 -11, 2013 in Germany. Focus was on the progress in implementing Opel’s ten-year plan “DRIVE!2022” as well as on the difficult environment in Europe. Another important topic was General Motors’ clear commitment to Germany and to Opel.

“GM and Opel have been together since 1929 and will stay together. And together we will also return to profitability in Europe. We have the strategy. We have the team. We have the cars. Germany is and remains the home and the backbone of Opel,” said Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann after the meeting with the Chancellor. 

!NEW! GM to Invest 4 Billion Euros in Opel’s Future through 2016

• GM Board of Directors makes clear commitment to Opel
• GM CEO Dan Akerson: “Opel has GM’s full support”
• Confirmation of “DRIVE!2022” plan for future
• Piece of Berlin Wall as symbol of solidarity

 From left: Stephen J. Girsky, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Adam Opel AG, Daniel F. Akerson, GM Chairman & CEO and Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Adam Opel AG Management Board, GM Europe President and GM Vice President in front of the Opel RAK 2 Rocket Car.

The General Motors (GM) Board of Directors used its meeting in Rüsselsheim to underscore its commitment to Opel and Germany. This commitment was also manifested in the approval of a comprehensive investment program: GM will invest 4 billion euros in Germany and Europe through 2016. “As a global automotive company GM needs a strong presence in Europe – in terms of design and development as well as manufacturing and sales,” said Dan Akerson, Chairman and CEO of GM, at a press briefing at Adam Opel Haus. “Opel is a key to our success and enjoys its parent company’s full support.”

The Board of Directors chose Germany for a regularly scheduled meeting to get first-hand information on the progress on its 10-year strategy DRIVE!2022 and the challenging European automotive environment. The Board also used this opportunity to meet with economists, unionists and politicians.

From left: Phil Murphy, American Ambassador, Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Adam Opel AG Management Board, GM Europe President and GM Vice President, Volker Bouffier, Minister President of Hesse, Daniel F. Akerson, GM Chairman & CEO, Stephen J. Girsky, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Adam Opel AG, Patrick Burghardt, Rüsselsheim Mayor.

In addition to Akerson, Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Supervisory Board Chairman Steve Girsky and Works Council Chairman Dr. Wolfgang Schäfer-Klug also spoke at today’s press conference in Rüsselsheim. The Board of Directors welcomed the guests of honor Minister President of Hesse Volker Bouffier, the American Ambassador Phil Murphy as well as Rüsselsheim Mayor Patrick Burghardt, who brought the city’s Guest Book for the visitors to sign.

From left: Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Adam Opel AG Management Board, GM Europe President and GM Vice President, Patrick Burghardt, Rüsselsheim Mayor and Volker Bouffier, Minister President of Hesse at the Rüsselsheim plant facilities.

Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, CEO of Adam Opel AG, emphasized that it is a great honor for Opel to be able to host the GM Board: “This Board has once again made very clear that our 10-year plan DRIVE!2022, that foresees our return to profitability by the middle of the decade, has our parent company’s complete support.” A large part of the investments are going into the Opel model offensive. Through 2016, Opel will introduce 23 new models and 13 new powertrains.

Opel Supervisory Board Chairman Steve Girsky said, “The Board of Directors is here to underline its solidarity and support. Opel has been part of GM since 1929 and is today more than ever a decisive element for the entire company’s innovative power. This partnership is stronger than it has ever been.”

Following the press briefing Dan Akerson revealed a piece of the Berlin Wall that belongs to Opel and will be placed in front of the Adam Opel Haus on Friedrich-Lutzmann-Ring. “This piece of the wall is a symbol of our corporate culture,” said CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “The symbol should remind everyone that we overcome any walls in our heads and those between different cultures and that we are now starting a new chapter in the history of Opel.”

In the press briefing a piece of the Berlin Wall was revealed that belongs to Opel and will be placed in front of the Adam Opel Haus on Friedrich-Lutzmann-Ring. Pictured (middle): Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Opel CEO 

!NEW! Opel Begins Extensive Powertrain Renewal

Three new engine families, 13 new engines by 2016

Engine portfolio 80 percent new by 2016

New 1.6-liter gasoline and diesel turbo engines deliver class-leading performance

Downsizing for more power, reduced fuel consumption and lower CO₂

Extensive ‘sound engineering’ measures give class-leading refinement

Revised manual gearboxes offer superior shift quality 

CDTI Engine Development in Torino                 

Opel is launching three new engine families and 13 new engines between 2012 and 2016, renewing 80 percent of its engine portfolio. In the same period the company will also launch a host of new transmissions. Opel is beginning the renewal of its powertrain portfolio now, by introducing all-new 1.6 liter gasoline and diesel engines, together with next generation five and six-speed gearboxes. They will be joined by the end of this year by a new small displacement gasoline engine family. All are developed to deliver class leading performance and refinement.

Focused on meeting a growing customer demand for ‘downsized’ engines offering strong power with reduced fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, the new gasoline and diesel powertrains are being progressively introduced across the Opel product range.

Best-in-class power densities and levels of refinement define both 1.6 liter engine families, while the further improved gearboxes provide a smooth gear shifting quality which matches the benchmarks amongst Opel’s competitors. An all-new six speed gearbox and a new automated manual transmission follow in the near future.

Class leading: All-new  gasoline engine

Featuring Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI), this all-new, four cylinder gasoline engine comes in two configurations. 

New Opel ECOTEC 1.6 SIDI 125 kW (Eco Turbo) engine in Opel Cascada

The Eco Turbo version, delivering 125 kW/170 hp and 280 Nm peak torque, is focused on optimized fuel economy, high low-end torque and outstanding elasticity. 

The Performance Turbo, packing 147 kW/200 hp and 300 Nm peak torque, boasts an exceptional specific power output of 125 hp per liter which is best in class amongst Opel’s competition.

Compared to Opel’s previous 1.6 liter turbo engine, CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption have been cut by 13 percent, while peak power and torque are increased by up to 30 percent. The Eco Turbo’s superb elasticity is demonstrated by a 20 percent improvement in fifth gear acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, while the 200 hp Performance Turbo adds an even sportier edge to the new engine’s character.

Technical highlights include:

• Class leading refinement: only engine in its class to feature balance shafts for smooth running. Innovative thin wall cylinder block with mass saving, two piece crankcase and diecast aluminum bedplate. Host of ‘sound engineering’ measures for low noise and vibration, including fine tuning for specific vehicle applications.
• Optimum fuel efficiency with minimal emissions: spark plug/fuel injector units centrally located at top of combustion chamber.
• Fast throttle response: dynamic turbocharger boost strategy giving rapid response comparable to twin-scroll design, plus improved packaging. Compressor with low and high-pressure resonators to suppress airborne hiss and pulsation noise.

Class leading: All-new 1.6 CDTI diesel engine

Opel’s all-new, 1.6 liter turbo diesel delivers class leading performance across all key engine parameters. It is launched in the Zafira Tourer and will be rolled out to replace the current 1.7 liter and lower powered 2.0 liter diesel engines in a wide range of Opel models, with even more powerful versions to come.

New Opel 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC Euro 6 engine in Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

Packing 100 kW/136 hp and strong torque of 320 Nm, Opel’s first all aluminum diesel engine boasts an exceptional power density of 85 hp per liter which is unrivalled in its class. Its low fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are already demonstrated by the Zafira Tourer’s best-in-class figures.

In common with its gasoline counterpart, the 1.6 CDTI benefits from a series of ‘sound engineering’ measures in its design and fine tuning to minimize noise, vibration and harshness. It has recorded the lowest sound ratings in testing with the Zafira Tourer against other vehicles using 1.6 liter Turbo Diesel engines.

With Opel’s BlueInjection Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system or Lean Nox Trap (LNT) technology enabling compliance with Euro 6 emissions standards, the 1.6 CDTI is as clean as a gasoline engine in operation.

Technical highlights include:

• Aluminum cylinder block and bedplate, saving more than 20 kilograms in weight.
• Optimized performance with closed-loop combustion control and multiple fuel injections, up to 10 per cycle, for efficient, clean and quiet running.
• Rapid throttle response with variable geometry, water cooled turbocharger operating at high peak boost pressure of 1.7 bar.
• Lowest internal engine friction rating, switchable water pump and variable displacement oil pump all contribute to fuel economy and reduced CO₂ emissions.   

Enhanced manual and automatic transmissions portfolio
With numerous revisions to internals and the shifter mechanism, Opel’s next generation five and six-speed gearboxes have been benchmarked against competitor offerings for superior shift quality. They are now being rolled out for ADAM, Corsa, Meriva, Mokka, Astra, Antara, Zafira and Insignia models with engines exceeding 130 Nm of torque.

New medium torque 6-speed manual transmission (MT6)

For small and sub-compact vehicles, with engines rated up to 235 Nm maximum torque, Opel has designed an all-new six-speed gearbox. It is significantly lighter than similar gearboxes and incorporates many of the modifications from the next generation units.

 Manual Transmission Automated (MTA)

For the ADAM and Corsa, a new automated manual transmission offering sequential style gear shifting and start/stop functionality, as well as five-speed automatic operation, is under development.

In the longer term, improvements to Opel’s current generation six-speed automatic transmission will be followed by the debut of an all-new, eight-speed transmission. The wider gear spread will enable an average improvement in fuel economy of more than three percent.