!NEW! Opel Astra TCR: 330 hp for the Racetrack

Opel developing a racing car for the 2016 TCR International Series

New Astra for the Racetrack: Opel’s motorsports division is developing a touring car in accordance with the current regulations of the TCR series for national and international customer racing.

Opel is expanding its activities in customer touring car racing. Based on the new Astra K, which will celebrate its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) this September, the motorsports division of the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker is developing a touring car in accordance with the current regulations of the TCR series for national and international customer racing.

The TCR series, inaugurated in 2015, is based on a three-pillar concept that includes national and continental championships along with the global TCR International Series – all of which have exactly the same technical regulations. Therefore, a TCR vehicle can be used worldwide without undergoing any technical modifications. The two-liter turbo-charged engines have an output of 330 hp (246 kW) and maximum torque of 410 Nm.

“Touring car racing has always been an important part of Opel. The philosophy of the new TCR series corresponds to our idea of customer racing. We want to give ambitious privately owned teams a platform for exciting sport at reasonable costs,” said Opel Group CMO Tina Müller.

The Opel Astra TCR is currently under development and the technical specifications will be announced at a later date. Testing of the new customer sports touring car is set to start in October.

!NEW! OnStar Reaches 1 Billion Customer Interactions

• Successful around the world: Your personal connectivity and service assistant
• 24/7 365 days a year: Customers contact OnStar via phone, mobile app, vehicle
• Pole position: Astra first completely new Opel model with OnStar 

OnStar has fielded more than 1 billion request from customers, who interact by phone, mobile app or embedded cellular service in their cars and trucks. Launched nearly 19 years ago as an industry-first service that would place a call from the vehicle when an air bag deployed, OnStar today remotely unlocks doors, loads driving directions directly to the vehicle, compiles and sends emails on vehicle health.

A customer contacts OnStar every two seconds. That adds up to about 5 million calls a month from its subscriber base of more than 7 million. Add 8.8 million interactions a month from the mobile app and you can see how indispensable OnStar has become since launching in 1996.

“OnStar created the original connected car in 1996 and today remains at the forefront of innovation through the services offered in Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac and soon, Opel vehicles around the globe,” said Alicia Boler-Davis, senior vice president, General Motors Global Connected Customer Experience. “The pace at which the brand has reached 1 billion interactions shows the vast customer demand for vehicle connectivity and there’s no doubt our second billion interactions will come even quicker.”

The Opel/Vauxhall OnStar connectivity and service assistant will be launched in Europe on August 3, 2015.

The new generation of the Opel Astra, which will celebrate its debut at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt (September 17 to 27), will be the first completely new Opel model to be available with OnStar. The system can also be ordered for ADAM, Cascada, Corsa, Insignia, Meriva, Mokka and Zafira Tourer in certain markets. The first introduction wave will see Opel OnStar being rolled out in 13 European markets, those being Belgium, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland and Spain, with additional countries following later. Customers will be able to use the entire service portfolio provided by Opel OnStar including the 24-hour Emergency Call Service free of charge for the first 12 months after registration.

Smartphone owners will be able to connect to their vehicle remotely with a Smartphone App. In addition, Opel OnStar will assist vehicle owners and police alike in case a vehicle with the system is stolen.

Opel OnStar can also provide subscribers with a monthly Vehicle Diagnostics email with the most important vehicle data and information. Furthermore, a diagnostics check can be requested at any time at the push of a button, thus providing peace of mind before setting off on a longer journey.

Opel OnStar subscribers in Europe will be in complete control of their data and the Opel OnStar services they receive. Before the services are activated they will have to agree to the terms and conditions. Furthermore, they will be able to choose whether they want to reveal their current location – at a push of the Privacy Button their position will be masked.

By the numbers, here is what 1 billion interactions looks like:

• 5.5 million Emergency Services delivered.
• 156 million mobile app requests.
• Delivered Roadside Assistance more than 3.9 million times.
• More than 390 million Vehicle Diagnostic reports delivered.

Before becoming known as OnStar, the original name for the service was Project Beacon. Its goal was integrating wireless communication into vehicles, years before mass adoption of smartphones.

In the fall of 1996, OnStar debuted in the Cadillac DeVille, Seville and Eldorado. The service initially offered Airbag Deployment Notifications, the core of OnStar’s safety and security premise, which progressed into Automatic Crash Response that uses sensors capable of determining the severity of a crash impact and alerting an OnStar emergency advisor to assist. OnStar today responds to more than 100,000 emergency calls every month. 

!NEW! Carsharing Powered by Opel: More than 5,000 App Users Already

Good start for CarUnity, the innovative carsharing concept 

CarUnity, the innovative carsharing concept powered by Opel has made a promising start. Currently, roughly one month after its launch, around 1,500 cars are available on the new platform, mainly in the Rhine-Main area, which is Opel’s home turf. The free app already has over 5,000 registered users. “We have taken a strategically important step towards becoming a mobility provider with the successful launch of CarUnity. We will build on this and fire up the next step now,” said Opel Group CMO Tina Müller.

“We initially focused our marketing efforts on the Rhine-Main area. Now we will up the ante all over Germany. We will be targeting the Berlin metropolitan area next and will intensify our commitment there,” added Dr. Jan Wergin, Director Opel Community Carsharing. Berlin is a hotspot for carsharing. “That is why expanding to the German capital is the next logical step to take for CarUnity. We are optimistic that our concept will be just as successful in Berlin as it is in the Rhine-Main area,” said Wergin.

Opel launched its new carsharing community under the motto “Better off sharing” (“Wer teilt, fährt besser”) at the end of June. CarUnity provides a quick, easy and flexible opportunity for car owners to offer their car for rental. Opel is treading a new path with the free CarUnity app and is the first car manufacturer to offer carsharing for everyone. It does not matter if the car is an Opel or a different brand.

The expansion of the mobility services portfolio is an important pillar on Opel’s plans for the future. Earlier this month, Opel secured a stake in the ridesharing platform flinc. Furthermore, the already existing cooperation between flinc and CarUnity will be extended. As of 2016, the internet and app-based ridesharing platform will provide the technological platform to provide ridesharing via the carsharing app. “This step will add further impetus to our intended change towards becoming a mobility service provider,” said Tina Müller.

!NEW! Opel is European Champion !

• Emil Bergkvist wins FIA ERC Junior in Opel ADAM R2
• Second place at Rally Estonia secures early championship title
• Team colleague Marijan Griebel with good shot at number two season finish 

Champions: Emil Bergkvist and his co-pilot Joakim Sjöberg secured the title in the FIA ERC Junior with their second place at the “auto24 Rally Estonia”.

In its first full season of competition, the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team with the Opel ADAM R2 has already taken the FIA ERC Junior by storm. With their second-place finish at the auto24 Rally Estonia, Emil Bergkvist (21, from Torsåker) and co-driver Joakim Sjöberg (29, from Ösmo) already won the title in the continent’s most fiercely contested Junior Rallye category one round before the season’s end. “I’m speechless,” beamed Bergkvist. “I want to thank everyone who contributed to this success, first and foremost Opel Motorsport and the whole team that always gave us a fantastic car. And of course my co-driver Jocke – without his perfect work this wouldn’t have been possible. The ERC Junior is so incredibly competitive that it takes a perfect team performance every time to get anywhere close to a podium finish. I really still can’t believe it!”

Successful duo: Emil Bergkvist impressed once again in his Opel ADAM R2 and could celebrate winning the FIA ERC Junior title in Estonia.

In addition to his high speed at the extremely fast gravel rallye in Estonia, Bergkvist also stole the show with an impressive and clever strategy. The two Swedes maintained a spot in the top 3 during all stages without taking incalculable risks for themselves and their Opel ADAM R2. And they didn’t let a 10-second penalty right at the start of the rallye distract them. Bergkvist said, “We quickly found a good rhythm and were able to attack without going all out. The car once again ran like clockwork. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the Opel ADAM R2 is the best rallye car in this category today.”

Also taking the two void results into account, Bergkvist/Sjöberg have a total of 128 points, which can no longer be achieved by any of their competitors. So the Barum Rallye season finale in the Czech Republic on the last weekend in August will be a show race for the two champions.

Opel Motorsport Director Jörg Schrott was full of praise: “One can’t applaud Emil’s and Joakim’s outstanding performance over the entire season enough. They were at the front of the field in every rallye and very cleverly captured the title. A huge compliment also goes to the whole ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team. This passionate dedication and fantastic team spirit were the key to success. And we are of course extremely proud of our ADAM R2 that proved its ability to win under all conditions. To secure the title early in this tough championship in the first full year is much more than we could have expected. It is simply fantastic!”

Marijan Griebel (26, from Hahnweiler) and his co-driver Stefan Clemens (29, from Thailen) finished the demanding rallye in the Baltics a strong sixth, giving them a good shot at capturing second place in the FIA ERC Junior at the final rallye in the Czech Republic. “This was one of the hardest rallies I’ve ever driven in,” admitted Griebel. “I am very happy with the result. A lot of teams showed how difficult it was to drive fast here and how easy it was to make a mistake. We got better and better during the rallye and again gathered loads of experience on gravel. And of course I’m thrilled for Emil and Jocke: they and the whole ADAC Opel Rallye Team really deserve this sensational success.”

Potential runner-up: Opel factory driver Marijan Griebel still has a chance of finishing second in the FIA ERC Junior after claiming sixth place in Estonia.

In contrast, Pole Aleks Zawada and his French co-driver Cathy Derousseaux were plagued by bad luck in their customer Opel ADAM R2. The winners of the Ypres Rallye hit a rock in the fourth stage that one of the cars in front of them catapulted onto the track. On impact a wheel suspension broke and these parts punched through the oil pan. The next day, Zawada/Derousseaux tackled the second leg with their repaired car, but were again prematurely stopped. A clogged radiator caused the Opel ADAM R2 to overheat, dashing all chances of finishing the rallye. 

!NEW! AGR Ergonomic Wellness seats for All-New Opel Astra

• Art of German engineering: All-new comfort seats from Opel
• Unique in compact class: With massage and memory function, plus much more
• Tradition at Opel: AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) seal of approval
• Attractive offer: Ergonomic AGR driver’s seat already available from 390 euros

Unique in the compact class: Beyond being 18-way adjustable including side bolster adjustment, the Astra seats are now optionally available with massage and memory function along with ventilation.

The new Opel Astra celebrates its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt this fall (September 17 – 27, 2015), but it is already clear today: never before has there been so much luxury in the compact class. The Astra is lighter, more efficient and offers state-of-the-art features; thanks to its advanced seating technology, it makes every drive a relaxing journey. AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) certified premium Opel ergonomic seats provide excellent long-distance travel seating comfort. They continue the Opel tradition of award-winning, back-friendly seats. Beyond being 18-way adjustable including side bolster adjustment, they are now optionally available with further comfort features such as massage and memory function along with ventilation – a unique combination in the compact class. Rear seat passengers can also look forward to more luxury – in addition to more legroom, heated outer rear seats are optional. Astra customers can treat themselves to these luxury seats that are completely developed in-house at Opel for very attractive prices – the driver’s seat with the AGR seal of approval is already available from 390 euros.

Ergonomic AGR driver’s seat is already available from 390 euros.

“Seating is among the most important elements in a vehicle as it delivers safety, comfort, and design. It is one of the reasons we place such a high priority- with the support of our partners- on the development of our seating systems," says Charlie Klein, Vice President Vehicle Engineering at Opel. "The new Opel Astra seats continue to deliver on the promise of excellence and are a reflection of the skill and commitment of our engineers and designers. The Astra seats provide advanced features in the compact segment that are normally found only in the premium class."

Lightweight: Seat alone ten kilos lighter

Development of the seating environment in the new Astra already began nearly five years ago for the over 100 employees in the team of experts. “Especially integration of the relatively bulky seats must be considered from the very beginning. This means the seats have to fit into the car accurately to the last millimeter – in every direction,” says Andrew Leuchtmann, Senior Manager GME Interiors. A very challenging task, as the seat components are one of the car’s largest parts. Seat production alone accounts for around ten percent of the total production costs of a new car model.

At the same time, the seats have a large impact on total weight. That is why for their new development, the engineers first had to minutely examine all single elements of the Astra comfort seats that come as standard. “Compared to the predecessor, not one single part is identical,” says the expert. In order to offer rear seat passengers 35 millimeters more legroom, the seat back of the new comfort front seat was made much more compact. State-of-the-art calculation methods enable this, as do lighter polyurethane foams and ultra-high-strength steels that are built in under the seat upholstery. “So the new seats are around ten kilos lighter than those in the previous model,” explains Leuchtmann. This is not only true for the driver and co-driver seats – the new Astra’s rear seats are also lighter and more compact, their contouring was optimized and thigh support was enhanced with a steeper seat tilt.

AGR seal of approval for ergonomic seats

“In-vehicle ergonomics is more than just the seat contouring, it already begins with the positioning of the seat in the car,” says Leuchtmann. The Opel experts also further optimized the Astra comfort seat in this regard, positioning it lower. “This especially accommodates taller drivers with a sporty driving style,” he explains. Thanks to a 65-millimeter height adjustment span – the largest in the segment – shorter drivers are also guaranteed an optimum seating position. With the optional premium ergonomic seat’s memory function, this can even be saved at the press of a button. This is ideal for fleet vehicles with the same group of drivers or couples who share the new Opel Astra. The base version of the optional ergonomic seats comes with four-way electropneumatically adjustable lumbar support (forwards, backwards, up and down), variable seat cushion tilt, cushion length adjustment and a seat form with contours that adapt to the natural curvature of the spine. The premium ergonomic seats also feature electropneumatically adjustable side bolsters that support the body by making the seatback narrower or wider. All these exemplary ergonomic elements made it clear to the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs), an independent association of doctors and experts dedicated to preventing back problems, that the new Astra also deserves the AGR seal of approval.

Wellness massage, climate control and heating included

Seats should not only keep drivers securely in place, they should also keep them warm or cool depending on the prevailing conditions. The new Astra comfort seat features passive climate control, meaning breathable surface fabrics and perforated polyurethane foams that considerably improve transporting away moisture and thereby the micro climate in the seat. The new Astra’s premium ergonomic seats can do both – keep warm and cool. Small fans suck air, and thus the moisture that develops when someone is in the seat, away from the body. In the winter, integrated seat heating keeps the driver and co-driver as well as both outer rear seat passengers comfortably warm. Those who want to turn their car into a wellness mobile on longer journeys can enjoy a massage at the push of a button – and arrive at their destination even hours later relaxed and free of aches or pains.

Opel Signum (2003)

Opel Signum (2003) - First Opel with Ergonomic AGR seat.

Opel is the leading volume manufacturer of ergonomic seats with the AGR seal of approval. The first ergonomic Opel seat was introduced with the Signum in 2003. Today, in addition to the new Astra, the certified and popular seats can be ordered for many Opel models including the Insignia, Meriva, Zafira Tourer, Mokka and Cascada. “We want to really speed up the democratization of good seats – more Opel models with AGR seats will follow,” promises Andrew Leuchtmann.

!NEW! Match Point for ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team

• Emil Bergkvist could already secure FIA ERC Junior title in Opel ADAM R2
• Extremely fast gravel surface at next-to-last FIA ERC Junior round in Estonia
• Marijan Griebel heading to Baltics in top form after recent outstanding performances

Joyful anticipation: Opel factory driver Emil Bergkvist admits that he loves driving on gravel tracks and wants to attack at the auto24 Rally Estonia.

The ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team is looking forward to its next big adventure at the auto24 Rally Estonia from July 17 to 19. The event around Tartu, about 180 kilometers south-east of Estonia’s capital Tallinn, is one of the fastest gravel rallies in Europe. So this fifth and penultimate round of the FIA ERC Junior seems to be tailor-made for Swede Emil Bergkvist (21, from Torsåker) and his Opel ADAM R2. The FIA ERC Junior leader and his co-driver Joakim Sjöberg (29, from Ösmo) are accordingly motivated. “These are the conditions I love the most for rallying,” says Bergkvist. “The extremely fast gravel roads in Estonia are going to be tons of fun! I’m sure that they’ll be a great fit to my driving style. Opel ADAM R2 has proven its competitiveness on every type of surface, so I think I’ll have a good shot at a podium finish.”

An early title win in the FIA ERC Junior is not the main focus, but it is a possibility, as only the best four of six results are counted. For each round, the top ten drivers earn points according to the Formula 1 scheme of the FIA. In addition, up to seven bonus points can be earned for each leg. A driver can earn a maximum of 39 points per FIA ERC Junior round – what Bergkvist already managed to do in Latvia and Ireland. Nevertheless, the Swede – the only driver who could already win the title in Estonia – refuses to engage in any speculation. “I am aware that the title could be decided in Estonia. But I’m not wasting any time thinking about that. Competition in the FIA ERC Junior is way too tough to do anything else but concentrate on the next stage – and then add the points up afterwards.”

Bergkvist’s colleague in the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team, Marijan Griebel, is one of the six drivers who currently have a chance of winning the FIA ERC Junior 2015 title. The 26-year-old from Hahnweiler and his co-driver Stefan Clemens (28, from Thailen) have gotten over their bad luck in Ypres, Belgium, where a puncture in the last stage cost them the victory, and are confident going into the adventure in Estonia. Griebel says: “I am really looking forward to very, very fast gravel roads that are quite different from the other events. That’s what makes the FIA ERC Junior so challenging and exciting. What am I expecting? A bunch of guys, mostly from Scandinavia and the Baltics, who will go flat out from the very first meter. But I think that the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team and the Opel ADAM R2 are in a good position to really give them a run for their money.”

In striking distance: Marijan Griebel and his co-pilot Stefan Clemens can also still win the FIA ERC Junior.

Upbeat and confident, Pole Aleksander Zawada and his French co-driver Cathy Derousseaux are looking forward to Estonia. The winners of the Kenotek Ypres Rallye in Belgium are racing in a customer Opel ADAM R2.

Participants in the auto24 Rally Estonia are facing a total distance of 656.38 kilometers, which includes 16 stages covering 204.86 kilometers. The first leg starts on Friday (July 17) at 20:00 local time (19:00 CEST) with the City Stage in Tartu. The rest of the first leg with nine more special stages takes place on Saturday between 8:52 and 19:52 local time. The second leg with six special stages begins on Sunday at 7:30 and first finishers will cross the finish line in Tartu beginning at 16:00 local time. Eurosport will broadcast daily reports covering the auto24 Rally Estonia. Opel offers live timing on the website www.opel-motorsport.com.

!NEW! Opel Acquires an Interest in Ridesharing Platform flinc

• Strategic investment in cooperation partner
• Together with CarUnity further element on the way to a mobility provider

Opel is taking the next important step to becoming a mobility provider after successfully launching the carsharing app CarUnity. The carmaker is investing in the internet and app-based ridesharing platform flinc. GM Ventures (GMV), the investment division of General Motors, will realize the investment. The technology used for flinc will play an important part in extending Opel’s mobility service offer throughout Europe. Deutsche Bahn will join GMV and also become an investor.

"For Opel this partnership is a decisive strategic investment. It will be crucial in the future to evolve from a product manufacturer to a provider of networked mobility," said Opel's chief marketing officer Tina Müller.

Opel and flinc are already working together successfully. A pilot project including an internal ridesharing platform for Opel employees in Rüsselsheim was launched in March. Currently, 9,000 rides per month are shared via the app-based platform, with an upward trend. In June, the partners also announced an expansion of the cooperation. From 2016, flinc will provide the technological platform so that rides can be shared via Opel’s new carsharing app ‘CarUnity’. Further details on this will be announced at a later date.

Opel is the first carmaker to introduce a carsharing concept for everyone. Cars can be shared no matter whether they are made by Opel or another brand. CarUnity enables flexible, individual mobility throughout Germany at all times. 

!NEW! Living the Dream – Aleix Espargarò and Ricky Cardús Drive Opel GTC OPC on the Nürburgring

• Motorcycling aces Aleix Espargarò and Ricky Cardús experience the Nordschleife with Opel
• Opel GTC OPC impresses the seasoned pros
• Fast laps and “taxi ride“ through the “Green Hell“ the highlights of the day

Pure athleticism: Motorcyclists Ricky Cardús (left) and Aleix Espargarò (right) pose with the dynamic GTC OPCs in the legendary “Karussell”

They normally speed around the most exciting racetracks in the world at over 300 kilometers per hour – but even a seasoned MotoGP ace can’t hide his joy when thinking about the 20.8 kilometer long asphalt road through the Eifel region that Sir Jackie Stewart once branded “Green Hell“. Aleix Espargaró is no exception. The 25-year-old Suzuki factory rider admitted that driving on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife was a childhood dream. Along with his Spanish compatriot and Moto2 rider Ricard “Ricky” Cardús he fulfilled that dream on Tuesday with the help of Opel before heading to the German Grand Prix set to take place on the Sachsenring.

In the morning, the two Spanish motorcycle racers, who both also have car racing driver licenses, each took to the wheel of Opel GTC OPCs with 280 hp and got to know the famous sections of the track such as “Schwedenkreuz“, “Fuchsröhre“, the “Karussell“, the “Brünnchen“, the “Pflanzgarten“, the “Schwalbenschwanz“,”Galgenkopf“ and “Döttinger Höhe“.

That was followed by a unique experience – Opel racing legend and MotoGP fan Volker Strycek who knows the Nordschleife like the back of his hand, took the motorcycling aces on a fast lap in the extremely dynamic Opel. Espargaró and Cardús were clearly impressed when they reeled off some additional kilometers in the GTC OPCs during the regular tourist drives on the Nordschleife. In the evening, the two Spanish motorcyclist were treated to another highlight when they followed former racing driver and current head of the Nürburgring Driving Academy Andreas Gülden on three fast laps. Gülden later praised the duo and insisted that they left a good impression on four wheels.

Both Espargaró and Cardús were overwhelmed by the impressions at the end of the day. “The Nordschleife really is the greatest racetrack in the world,” said Espargaró. “I have rarely had so much fun preparing for a MotoGP race. I will definitely be back. And the GTC OPC is a great car. The outstanding chassis and the high-torque turbo engine make it the perfect car for the Nordschleife,” he added. Cardús, a team-mate of German Marcel Schrötter in the Tech3 team, was equally impressed: „This ranks up there with the three best experiences I have ever had on a racetrack. It was brilliant.“

!NEW! Opel Continues Successful Course in Europa

• Opel posts Europe-wide growth of nine percent in June
• Sales increase of three percent in first six months of the year
• Registrations up in 20 European countries

Opel Mokka SUV

Opel remains on a successful course in Europe: according to the preliminary numbers for June, new car registrations increased by more than 9,800 vehicles compared to the same month of last year – an increase of 9 percent, resulting in new registrations of 118,600. The market share was at 6.35 percent. Opel’s result for the first six months of 2015 is also positive – despite the exit from the Russian market. From January to June, the carmaker sold 582,300 vehicles, an increase of three percent or around 18,400 units more than in the same period of 2014. This is equivalent to a slightly improved market share of 5.9 percent.

New Opel Corsa

Opel ADAM 

“The increase in volume in more than 20 markets in the first six months shows that our models appeal to the customers. The new Opel KARL, for which we have already received 30,000 orders, our personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar and the new Astra K will create additional impetus for further growth,” said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group.

In the first half of 2015 Opel registered an increase in registrations in 20 European markets including Germany (+ 2 percent), the United Kingdom (+4 percent), France (+7 percent), Spain (+18 percent), Italy (+17 percent), Portugal (+21 percent), Poland (+20 percent) and Turkey (+ 36 percent). The brand registered an increase of market shares in more than 13 European markets. Opel achieved its biggest market share gains in Macedonia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Estonia, Bulgaria, Serbia and Poland.

In June, Opel conquered first place on the Hungarian passenger car market with a market share of 11.3 percent. The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker also took second place in the registration statistics in Austria (7.57 percent market share) and the Netherlands (8.1 percent market share. In addition, the Opel sister brand Vauxhall was the number two on the British market both in June (11.66 percent market share) and for the first six months of the year (10.35 percent market share).

Opel Mokka SUV once again led the way for the passenger car portfolio with an increase of more than 20,000 units or 28 percent.

Opel Corsa registrations were up by around 18,000 units or twelve percent followed by the Opel ADAM with more 2,500 units or nine percent.

!NEW! Opel Kadett B Celebrates 50th Birthday: “Opel Kadett. Das Auto“

Opel used this advertising slogan for its bestseller that sold over 2.6 million units

50 years of Opel compact class cars: The new Astra K descends directly from the 1965 Kadett B that was built 2.6 million times.

B follows A, and in 1965 the new series Kadett B replaced its successful predecessor, the Kadett A. The successor to the first post-war Kadett was 18 centimeters longer, exceeding four meters in length and was available in three body versions right from market launch: as a two or four-door sedan, of course again as a CarAvan station wagon and as a chic coupé. The coupé’s fashionable figure was clearly inspired by fastback models such as the Chevrolet Chevelle from the USA: a flat, sloping rear gave the coupé a dynamic form that promised speed. The three ventilation slots in the B-pillar have gone down in the annals of automotive history: today these models, known as “gills coupés”, are especially coveted and fetch top prices.

Opel Kadett B “gills-coupé“: The three vents in the c-pillar gave the classic car its name. 

Downsizing is tradition at Opel: In the beginning there was the one-liter engine

Matching the overall sportier design, power was also stepped up by 5 hp. The bore of the four-cylinder unit was enlarged by three millimeters and now the 1,078 cm3 unit developed 45 hp. Also available was a higher-compression 1.1 liter S engine with 55 hp. This was joined in 1966 by a twin-carburetor version of the short-stroke engine with 60 hp. The engine highlight was the 90 hp 1.9 liter four-cylinder engine – introduced in 1967 for the rallye version of the Kadett B – from the Rekord C.

 This unit was also featured in the Opel Olympia, already well-equipped in its premium variant, which also differentiated itself from the Kadett with visual elements such as grille molding wrapped around its front. In addition to the classic four-speed transmission, from 1968 the Kadett was also available with a three-speed automatic gearbox, which was still unusual in this class at the time. Initially the three-speed automatic was only available with the 1.7 and 1.9 liter engines; one year later, buyers of the 1.1 liter Kadett with 60 hp were also able to forego the manual transmission. Also unusual was the 12 volt on-board voltage in the compact model made in Bochum – the competitors from Cologne, Wolfsburg and Munich were still content with six volts.

Opel Kadett B hatchback: The three-door is almost as elegant as the coupé. 

Now, for the first time, a Kadett was officially approved as a five-seater. But this applied only to both sedan variants, the coupé models remained four-seaters. The increased length benefitted mainly the interior, whereby the luggage compartment also grew by 12 percent to a volume of 337 liters according to the VDA (German Association of the Automotive Industry) standard.

Opel Kadett B CarAvan: The combination between an elegant three-door and spacious station wagon.

Opel Kadett B was an instant success, with more than 105,000 units leaving the plant in the first year. While today over 60 percent of compact models are station wagon variants, back then the CarAvan share was just around 17 percent. And its success went beyond Germany’s borders, with around 50 percent of annual production being exported. The Kadett was at home on the roads in 120 countries and, without ever officially being called a global vehicle, really was an international car.

Opel goes for sport: Rallye Kadett becomes series winner

Opel Kadett B Rallye: Available from 1966 – the ancestor of all sporty compact class cars.

Long before VW entered the GTI class, the Rallye Kadett introduced in 1966 was the forerunner of all compact sports cars. The striking coupé with matte black hood and stripes was initially available with a 60 hp twin-carburetor version of the 1.1 liter engine, and from 1967, even with a 1.9-liter unit. By the way, the matte black hood was not a design whim, it served to keep the reflection of strong sun rays from blinding the driver – an issue first identified during rallying at the time. The 90 hp unit accelerated the coupé to 170 km/h, and a sporty chassis ensured additional safety reserves. With its sporty features and very good driving performance, the Rallye Kadett offered an excellent basis for amateur sports. It grabbed attention at home and abroad with victories on all types of tracks. The list of victories is endless: the reliable and affordable Rallye Kadett celebrated success at the Rallye Stuttgart-Lyon-Charbonnières, the Hessen Rallye, the Rallye Trifels and the Tour de Luxembourg. Opel tuner Günther Irmscher won the Tour d’ Europe in 1967. The same year the Kadett celebrated its greatest victory until then: the Lambart/Vogt team was class winner at the Rallye Monte Carlo. Just how popular and successful the Rallye Kadett was in motorsports at the time is shown in the statistics from 1968: in a total of 238 events, this model scooped up 222 class victories as well as 345 gold and 287 silver medals.

For Individualists: Opel Kadett’s elegant brother is called Olympia

Opel Kadett B hatchback: The five-door is similar to a business coupé as offered by present-day premium brands.

Opel was again a pioneer in niche vehicles with the Olympia A based on the Kadett B. “The Olympia is the consistent use of the successful Kadett concept on a higher level,” stated the Opel press information from that time. “With the same compact exterior dimensions, the Olympia convinces with high driving performance and exceptional equipment and driving comfort.” The Rüsselsheim automaker was proven right: more than 80,000 customers bought the Olympia A between 1967 and 1970. The luxurious coupé was available with 60, 75 and 90 hp, and its upgraded equipment included special tufted carpets and a padded instrument panel “with real wood character”. A modified radiator grille wrapped around the fender with chrome trim, rectangular headlamps and larger rear side windows made up the exterior visual upgrade.

Opel Olympia A: The Kadett B’s stylish brother with the legendary 90 hp 1.9 liter, four-cylinder engine under the hood.

The Kadett B’s career ended in July 1973 after 2.6 million models had been built. Its diverse range of variants and numerous styling possibilities were exemplary for the automotive industry. And with the Rallye Kadett, Opel established the compact sports car segment for the broad public.

!NEW! GMSA Increases Market Share For Five Consecutive Months

Total industry sales for new vehicles came in at 50 251 units for June down 4.8% compared to June last year.

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) sold a total of 5 024 units with a market share of 10%, an increase of 0.2% compared to the previous month.

Opel sales were 122% up on June 2014 with notable performances from the trio of new comers the ADAM, Corsa, and Mokka with 169, 277, 191 units respectively.

New Opel ADAM

“Our three new Germans continue to find favour with buyers. ADAM, Corsa and Mokka all delivered solid performances in June. We are very proud that Opel sales are up 90 percent against the same period last year,” said Brian Olson, GMSA vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing.

New Opel Corsa

New Opel Mokka SUV

The Chevrolet Utility led the sales for the brand with 1468 units sold, Chevrolet spark was second with 499 units.

Isuzu KB sales were 1376 units last month. Isuzu and Chevrolet Utility have a combined 22.1% share, making June the second month of LCV sales this year.

!NEW! Rugged Pocket Rocket: Opel ADAM ROCKS S from 19.990 Euro

• Ready: Order books for the latest member of the Opel ADAM family now open
• Fast: From 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, top speed of 210 km/h
• Dynamically robust: Masculine outdoor look with sporty feeling
• Immediate help: Personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar available as an option for all ADAM models

Dynamic symbiosis: Opel ADAM ROCKS S combines the athleticism of the ADAM S with the rugged look of the ADAM ROCKS.

Anything but cute and anything but slow was the claim when the brand new Opel ADAM ROCKS S was presented to the public at the Amsterdam Motor Show this spring. Now the mini-crossover with racing flair is ready to sprint to the customers. Opel ADAM ROCKS S can be ordered for prices starting at euro 19.990 (RRP including VAT in Germany). For this price, buyers will receive the perfect symbiosis of adventurousness and athleticism. On the outside, the 3.75 meter long Opel ADAM ROCKS S shows its rugged, masculine charm; under its hood, it can look to a powerful 1.4 liter turbo with 110 kW/150 hp. On the inside, the newcomer does not just dazzle with the Opel ADAM-typical extensive choice of trim and individualization possibilities including IntelliLink infotainment technology – it can also look to the groundbreaking personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, thus guaranteeing outstanding entertainment and safety.

The best of both worlds: Opel ADAM ROCKS S for freedom-loving sporty drivers

Better an Opel ADAM ROCKS with rugged features, optional SwingTop canvas roof, underride protection look along with distinctive off-road front, side and rear claddings, or maybe the Opel ADAM S with specific roof spoiler, performance steering and chassis along with amble horsepower under the hood? The decision is easy now as the two possibilities can be combines. The sporty mini-crossover Opel ADAM ROCKS S offers the best of both worlds.

Opel ECOTEC 1.4 Turbo with 110 kW/150 hp and 220 Nm of torque

The 110 kW/150 hp ECOTEC engine impresses with 220 Nm of torque on tap and a top speed of 210 km/h. Opel ADAM ROCKS S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.5 seconds. However, it also boasts great elasticity and makes the transition for 80 to 120 km/h in 5th gear in just 7.9 seconds. The power is transmitted via a short ratio 6-speed gearbox. Despite its sporting credentials the Opel ADAM ROCKS makes do with a mere 5.9 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle (equivalent to 139 g/km of CO2).

New Opel ADAM ROCKS S feels especially at home on country roads that play to its strengths. The dynamic performance chassis, which has been lowered by 15 millimeters compared to the Opel ADAM ROCKS, and a direct and responsive steering create pure driving pleasure, especially on winding roads. The high-performance brakes and the ESP system that can be switched off offer drivers the possibility of safely pushing the rocking athlete to its limits on suitable roads.

Outstanding connectivity and safe: Opel OnStar for the successful lifestyle mini

Just like its ADAM siblings, the ADAM ROCKS S offers assistance systems and features that are unrivalled in this segment. For example, Side Blind Spot Alert is available as an option to increase safety. It uses the ultrasonic sensors to warn the driver of an imminent collision when changing lanes. If the electronic guardians pick up an object on collision course, a LED warning appears in the relevant exterior door mirror. Side Blind Spot Alert works in speeds ranging from 11 km/h to 140 km/h. Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) also comes as part of Advanced Park Assist (APA), available for euro 580, that automatically steers the Opel ADAM ROCKS S into a suitable space.

But that is not all. Apart from the award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system, the rugged athlete can also be ordered with Opel OnStar, just like all other Opel ADAM models. The groundbreaking personal connectivity and service assistant takes on-board connectivity to a new level. Opel OnStar turns the car into a powerful 4G/LTE mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot. Up to seven devices can be connected to it. Furthermore, the system offers a wide range of safety and comfort services ranging from 24-Hour Emergency Call Service to Roadside Assistance. The services offered by the personal guardian angel are available free of charge for the first 12 months after activation. The hardware for Opel OnStar comes as standard for the trim levels ADAM GLAM and ADAM SLAM. For the other family members it costs euro 490.