First appearance: World premiere at the 86th Geneva Motor Show
Emotional concept: Breathtaking and puristic design
Successful ancestors: Following the tradition of the Opel GT and the Monza Concept
True sportscar: front mid-engine, sequential gearbox, rear-wheel drive
Sportscar of the future: Opel GT Concept will celebrate its world premiere at the 86th Geneva International Motor Show.
The Opel GT Concept will celebrate its world premiere at the 86th Geneva International Motor Show (March 3 to 13, 2016). This trendsetting sportscar expresses the continuous innovative strength of Opel – breathtaking in its shape, reduced to the bare essentials, pure passion. The thoroughbred athlete with a front mid-engine and rear-wheel drive is a direct descendant of the Opel GT and the Monza Concept and takes Opel’s sculptural design philosophy to the next level. The sportscar is avant-garde yet puristic, renounces everything that disturbs the pure form. The GT Concept has no door handles or exterior door mirrors.
Emotional Opel GT Concept: Pure and breathtaking design.
“We are taking the next step towards even more emotion and driving pleasure with the Opel GT Concept. The GT Concept shows what Opel stands for now. We are confident, ambitious, innovative and we want win over more customers with every new car,” said Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann who is already looking forward to the world premiere in Geneva.
In the best tradition: GT Concept continues philosophy of Opel Experimental GT
The Opel GT Concept will follow in the footsteps of the famous Opel Experimental GT at the Geneva Motor Show. In 1965, only one year after the foundation of the first design studio run by a European car manufacturer, Opel presented this sleek and expressive coupé with the reliable technology of the Kadett B at the Frankfurt Motor Show. However, it was not just innovative because it was the first concept car ever presented by a European manufacturer. The GT already shone with innovations such as retracting headlamps and displayed a slim form along with perfect proportions without unnecessary decoration. The uncompromising concept by Erhard Schnell mainly wanted to be one thing – a design statement. The reactions from the public were so overwhelming that the series production Opel GT was at dealerships only three years later. The rest is history – a success story, an automotive icon.
Aware of tradition: The distinctive red front tires – mounted on rims with a cheeky skateboard design – are reminiscent of the Opel Motoclub 500 motorbike from 1928.
The GT Concept once again showcases Opel’s pioneering spirit. A dynamic driving machine something that is already symbolized by the red signature line that splits the vehicle body horizontally and proportions it. The distinctive red front tires – mounted on rims with a cheeky roller skates design – are reminiscent of the Opel motorbike Motoclub 500 that was also avant-garde at its time and was the proud owner of two red tires in 1928.
Avantgarde: Opel Motoclub 500 motorbike from 1928.
Apart from that, the GT Concept does not have many links to the past. The long bonnet, the absence of a trunk lid, the central dual exhaust and of course, the name all refer to the original GT. Apart from that the Opel GT Concept is independent with no sign of retro-design.
Simply stylish: Opel GT Concept is dramatic, sculptural and full of innovations.
"We created the GT Concept to capture the bold, emotional spirit of the Opel brand. It is dramatic, sculptural and full of innovations, which is our great tradition that we intend to continue. Back in 1965, Opel developed the Experimental GT, a thoroughly modern vehicle that also boasted a pure sculptural shape. It’s certainly difficult to reinvent an icon but just as the Experimental GT was avant-garde back then, so too is this GT Concept today – absolutely pure, minimalistic, yet bold and uncompromising. This coupé impressively demonstrates the continuous development of our Design philosophy – ‘Sculptural Artistry meets German precision’,” said Mark Adams, Vice President, Design Europe.
All aboard: The doors immerse considerably into the front wheel arches when opened.
A key innovation of the Opel GT Concept are the large doors with the integrated side windows that show a seamless transition from glass to painted surfaces. Both the driver and the front passenger gain access to the unexpectedly spacious interior after pressing the touchpad for the electric doors that is integrated in the red signature line of the roof. Even tall drivers have enough room inside. The doors immerse considerably into the front wheel arches when opened. This space-saving and patented mounting allows a large opening angle – particularly in relatively tight parking spaces. The compact athlete is therefore optimized especially for urban areas. Two cameras mounted behind the wheel arches ensure a safe overview while driving in the city. They transmit their images to two monitors on the left and right-hand side of the cockpit – the days of exterior door mirrors and blind spots are therefore over. The windshield flows into a glass panorama roof enabling the occupants to enjoy a driving experience similar to that offered by a targa with a removable roof.
Heavenly: The windshield flows into a glass panorama roof enabling the occupants to enjoy a driving experience similar to that offered by a targa with a removable roof.
Real sportscar: Front mid-engine, turbocharged and rear-wheel drive
Stretched hood: Just like the first Opel GT and US sportscar icon Corvette the GT Concept has a front mid-engine.
The stretched hood reveals the powertrain concept of the GT Concept: Just like the first Opel GT and US sportscar icon Corvette also made by GM it has a front mid-engine. The vehicle’s center of gravity is therefore low and central – ideal for sporty handling and excellent cornering dynamics. The Opel GT Concept has a powerful 1.0 liter, three-cylinder turbocharged engine based on the ultra-modern all-aluminum engine used in Opel ADAM, Corsa and Astra. The extremely efficient direct injection gasoline unit develops 107 kW/145 hp and maximum torque of 205 Nm in its sporty trim (consumption values for the Opel GT Concept are not available yet). The turbo power is sent towards the rear axle with mechanical differential lock via a sequential six-speed transmission that is operated by shift paddles on the steering wheel. Thus, the Opel GT Concept possess traditional rear-wheel drive especially appreciated by sportscar purists. The performance of the two-seater with a total weight below 1,000 kilograms also matches this. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than eight seconds and has a top speed of 215 km/h.
Opel GT Concept: A dynamic driving machine as symbolized by the red signature line.
A further highlight of the Opel GT Concept are the main headlamps with integrated indicators. Thanks to ultra-modern projection technology, these shine very three-dimensionally. The next generation adaptive full LED light is obviously the perfect match for this technology. The Opel IntelliLux LED Matrix light, which allows glare-free high beam driving, already made its debut in the new Astra in 2015 and won the SAFETYBEST Award. The Opel GT Concept sees the introduction of the next stage of development of the intelligent light system. The design of the lights is rounded off by the three dimensional design of the tail lamps that make the new Opel GT distinctive at night.
Night star: Three dimensional design of the tail lamps that make the new Opel GT distinctive at night.
Toughness test: Compact station wagon defies temperatures from -40 to +60 C°
60 degrees Celsius in the winter: New Opel Astra Sports Tourer has to demonstrate that it can withstand extreme heat in the climatic chamber.
Scorching hot desert sand…” – Opel‘s International Technical Development Center (ITDC) reproduces conditions comparable to the Sahara desert. In Rüsselsheim in the middle of winter, the mercury is at 60 degrees Celsius and the sweat is pouring. In the middle of it all, the new Astra Sports Tourer defies the adverse conditions. Calmly and smoothly, it bounces up and down on the heat test bench while the earsplitting racket from the ventilation system fills the 60 square meter room.
One day later, same place, same time, but the observer is confronted with a completely different scenario: the Opel Astra Sports Tourer is all wrapped up in a white outfit that is covered with a thin layer of ice. The compact station wagon’s spacious interior is not visible from the outside, as the windows are completely frozen over. The temperature is -40 degrees, and without warm winter clothing no one can last in here. “We want to see how the materials in the Sports Tourer react to extreme conditions. We also check if its appearance changes and if extreme heat or cold have an effect on, for example, gap width,” explains Otto Hemmelmann, Lead Engineer Test Methods. With his interdisciplinary team from various specialist areas, he is responsible for this foray into scorching and freezing conditions.
Seal of approval: First extreme heat followed by icy condition on the cold test bench the next day – the New Opel Astra Sports Tourer shows that it is perfectly suited for all climatic conditions.
Daily temperature extremes for higher customer satisfaction
The heat and cold test bench – also called thermal cycling testing – is part of the compulsory program in Opel vehicle development, just like the acoustic and electronic lab tests. “After all, our customers around the world drive the Astra in all different climate zones,” says Hemmelmann. In general, every new vehicles is tested during the development phase, here a completely standard Astra Sports Tourer. This ensures that exactly the materials that are later used in customer vehicles are actually put to the test. During the two-week phase, temperatures change daily. “Sealing, bonding, plastic parts and materials, rubber – all this has to work properly, meaning constant elastic constricting and stretching like a rubber band, without bearing any traces of it,” explains the Chief Engineer.
Even direct sunlight can be simulated in the climatic chamber with the help of special radiators. “If the Sports Tourer is parked outside in the summer, interior temperatures can reach 90 degrees,” says Hemmelmann. With the help of the sun simulation, the team tests the interior materials’ stress tolerance. “But we also test how long the air conditioner has to be on until the temperature is bearable again.” In addition, the so-called four-post test bench moves the Sports Tourer up and down under its wheels. This enables testers to ensure that comfort in the car is not compromised even under extreme conditions and that the interior materials make no irritating noises or smells during driving despite high strain and stress.
Intelligent tailgate and FlexFold rear seat back tested
The Astra Sports Tourer is not specially prepared for the heat/cold test bench. It is fitted with commercial tires and belts secure the compact station wagon on the four-post test bench. Nevertheless, the vehicle is thoroughly checked before the test. Because after the hot/cold treatment, the engineers look at the Sports Tourer through the customer’s eyes and identify differences. “We look at what impression the car makes on us and take measurements to determine if anything has become distorted or misaligned,” says Hemmelmann. The team’s systematic examination puts a special focus on the installed plastic parts such as bumpers and side sills. “The gap width is extremely important in these cases, because of course the components must not be protruding.” Employees from the respective specialist areas also check all functions in the interior. For instance, does the glove compartment open smoothly and easily? Can the FlexFold rear seat back be seamlessly adjusted in all situations? And above all, does the sensor-controlled tailgate also open and close at -40 degrees with a simple kicking motion under the bumper? After all, this practical function makes its premiere in the new Astra Sports Tourer. Only when all components, body and add-on parts are tested and cleared has the Astra Sports Tourer passed the thermal cycling test – and then it is ready for its daily job as a comfortable business or multi-functional family car.
World premiere in Geneva: Concept sportscar follows tradition of Opel Experimental GT
A new short video, a preview of an upcoming world premiere – a breathtaking and at the same time puristic looking sportscar. Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann opens the door to the future for just a short moment and says: “Opel has reinvented itself. Don’t miss what happens next.” He is referring to the Opel GT Concept that will be on display in all its beauty for the first time at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show (March 3 to 13, 2016).
Homage: The central dual exhaust with the logo of the new Opel GT Concept is reminiscent of the legendary 1965 Opel Experimental GT.
The video and the first photograph showing the central double exhaust already illustrate reminiscences of two avant-garde models from the company’s long history – without any trace of retro design. The red front tire of the Opel GT Concept, visible for an instant, pays homage to the Opel motorcycle Motoclub 500. It was futuristic when it appeared with two red tires in 1928.
1928: Opel Motoclub 500 (photo: P.H. Louw / Wikipedia)
2016: Opel GT Concept
The two tailpipes with the GT logo in the middle also allude to a design icon: In 1965, Opel presented the avant-garde Experimental GT at the Frankfurt Motor Show – the first concept car ever devised by a European car manufacturer. Opel Experimental GT was already an ultra-modern coupé with a sculptural shape – absolutely clear, minimalistic while also being exciting and uncompromising. The same philosophy now defines the design of the new Opel GT Concept.
Top of the class: Opel Mokka is the star of the subcompact SUVs in Europe
Safe: Adaptive all-wheel drive especially valuable in the winter months
Trendy: Personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar ensures relaxed drive
SUV bestseller: Opel Mokka has been ordered 500,000 times already.
Opel Mokka, the shooting star under the SUVs, has reached new heights with the 500,000th unit of the bestseller now having been ordered. Ever since its launch around three years ago, the Mokka has impressed with stylish design, high practicality, frugal engines and ultra-modern technologies such as adaptive all-wheel drive. In addition, Mokka owners are always fully connected with the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, which offers extensive services at the push of a button. All of these virtues have helped the compact SUV win numerous awards. The Opel Mokka is a two-time winner of the “All-wheel Drive Car of the Year” award and a winner of the “Company Car of the Year” award.
“People looking for a robust, compact SUV with a high level of functionality and best quality at affordable prices drive Opel Mokka,” said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group. “The customers love the offer proposed by our popular SUV. Therefore, it leads registrations in its class regularly. Under consideration of a longer time period, the Mokka is an undisputed member of the top three registered SUVs.” Across Europe, the Mokka registered a sales increase of 16 percent in 2015.
Recipe for success: Modern engines, all-wheel drive and outstanding connectivity
Opel Mokka offers complete suitability for everyday use for up to five people within a compact length of 4.28 meters. Furthermore, it comes with refined and powerful engines with the frugal latest generation turbo diesel units leading the way. In combination with a six-speed manual transmission, the diesel engines, optionally available with 81 kW/110 hp or 100 kW/136 hp, curb fuel consumption to 4.3-4.1 liters per 100 kilometers, which is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 114-106 grams per kilometer, for the combined cycle. The “large” diesel can also be combined with adaptive all-wheel drive (Combined fuel consumption: 4.7-4.5 l/100 km: CO2 emissions: 124-119 g/km). The 4x4 system automatically recognizes where the most traction is required and divides the propulsive power accordingly – providing a considerable boost in safety especially in wet and slippery conditions.
Opel Mokka SUV - Adaptive 4x4 System
The Opel bestseller does not only come with high-tech drive solutions – it also offers outstanding connectivity. Just like most other Opel models, the Mokka is now available with Opel OnStar. The personal connectivity and service assistant proposes a wide range of services ranging from Automatic Crash Response and Roadside Assistance to remote Vehicle Diagnostics via the myOpel smartphone app or a powerful 4G/LTE Wi-Fi hotspot for up to seven devices.
Results 2015: Highest sales and market share in four years
Company expects further growth in 2016 thanks to ongoing product offensive
Over 80,000 orders for new Astra across Europe already
The new Astra has already been ordered 80,000 times
Opel (including Vauxhall in the UK) has achieved its best sales result in four years despite the strategic retreat from the Russian market. According to preliminary data, the company delivered more than 1.1 million vehicles in 2015. This represents an increase of over 35,000 units or 3.3 percent compared to 2014, growing slightly stronger than the overall European market. Opel’s share of the total European vehicle market therefore increased for the third year in a row to around 5.8 percent, the brand’s best sales and market share results since 2011.
“2015 was the best year for Opel since 2011 thanks to our product offensive. We have increased our volume and our market share and are optimistic that we will be able to continue this success in 2016,” said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales of the Opel Group. “The reason for optimism is partially driven by the new Opel Astra. It has already been ordered more than 80,000 times despite only arriving at dealerships in most European markets during the course of November. And we expect a lot from the Sports Tourer variant that will be produced as of spring 2016.”
The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker achieved sales volume increases in 20 markets last year including Germany, the United Kingdom (under the Vauxhall brand), France, Italy and Spain. Market share was up in 10 European markets.
In the UK, Vauxhall recorded volume growth year-on-year for the sixth consecutive year since 2009. Three cars featured in the top 10 bestsellers including Corsa, Astra and Mokka. Insignia, Zafira Tourer and Mokka were all number one in their respective segments.
Opel Mokka saw the strongest year-over-year growth in the passenger car portfolio with an increase of 16 percent. Opel Corsa registrations were up 6 percent.
Buick Avista concept received the EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Concept Car at a ceremony today at the North American International Auto Show.
The Design team poses with the Buick Avista Concept after winning the EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Concept Car, Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. It was the second consecutive year Buick received the award, which was bestowed on the Avenir concept in 2015
It was the second consecutive year Buick received the award, which was bestowed on the Avenir concept in 2015. EyesOn Design – a benefit for Henry Ford Health System’s Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology – recognizes the best production and concept vehicle designs making their worldwide debut in Detroit.
“Design has always played a large role in Buick's rich history and recent success,” said Bryan Nesbitt, executive director, Buick Global Design. “The Avista concept has been a labor of love by the team of designers, sculptors, engineers and talented craftspeople, including our UAW partners, who created this beautiful statement of Buick design. Avista represents the future essence of Buick design.”
A sleek, sweeping proportion is the foundation for this vision of a contemporary grand tourer, with a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 driving the rear wheels. The Avista’s uninterrupted body lines stretch front to rear, suggesting motion – resembling Buick’s design language introduced on the Avenir concept and carried into production on the 2017 LaCrosse.
Like the exterior, the Avista’s 2+2 interior is defined by flowing, uninterrupted lines conveying elegance through simplicity – with intense technical and surfaces details, in everything from 3D-printed door and seat trim to a future vision of Buick’s IntelliLink, with touchscreen controls on a widescreen instrument panel display.
Exposed carbon fiber and aluminum accents throughout reinforce the precision of the performance-oriented driving experience.
Design elegance, performance heritage conveyed in turbocharged 2+2 coupe
2016 Buick Avista Concept
Ahead of its public debut at the North American International Auto Show, Buick today revealed the Avista concept – a 2+2 coupe that pushes the brand’s contemporary design ethos and rekindles its historic performance roots.
A sleek, sweeping proportion is the foundation for this vision of a contemporary grand tourer, with a 400 horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 driving the rear wheels and a driver-focused cockpit offering a comfortable, connected center of control.
“The Avista embodies the dynamic soul of Buick,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Buick Sales, Service and Marketing. “It is a modern expression of the brand’s heritage of sophisticated performance, communicated with beautiful elegance.”
The Avista’s uninterrupted body lines stretch front to rear, suggesting motion – resembling Buick’s design language introduced on the Avenir concept and carried into production on the 2017 LaCrosse. The absence of conventional B-pillars between the doors and rear side windows enhances the flowing profile.
“There is elegant simplicity in the Avista’s surfaces, which speak to the purity of the car’s performance, and a timeless beauty that’s a hallmark of Buick design,” said Bryan Nesbitt, executive director Global Buick Design. “It was designed to capture the spirit of the perfect drive.”
Marking the front and rear, Buick evolves its signature wing-shaped lighting with “soft curtain” elements that create illuminated “halos” around lamps’ edges, suggesting a three-dimensional shape and sculpture. Their design forecasts the evolution of Buick’s production lighting features, while the Avista’s grille features the brand’s new winged tri-shield insignia set against a three-dimensional mesh background.
Additional exterior features include:
A 110.7 inch (2,811 mm) wheelbase and 63 inch (1,601 mm)
front/62.9 inch (1,598 mm) rear tracks for sporty proportions and an
aggressive stance
Twenty-inch aluminum wheels with color-toned accents match the car’s Dark Sapphire Jewel exterior
Front fender vents with chrome accents evolve Buick’s signature fender ports.
Performance-oriented, modern cockpit
Like the exterior, the Avista’s 2+2 interior is defined by flowing, uninterrupted lines conveying elegance through simplicity – with intense technical and surfaces details, in everything from 3D-printed door and seat trim to a future vision of Buick’s IntelliLink, with touchscreen controls on a widescreen instrument panel display.
The center console also incorporates touchscreen controls and extends to the rear seating area. Open side storage compartments built into the front of the console are enabled by the new Electronic Precision Shift, similar to the 2017 LaCrosse.
A Superior Blue foundation color echoes the exterior and is complemented with Mist Gray leather seating inserts, console trim and door trim. Exposed carbon fiber and aluminum accents throughout reinforce the precision of the performance-oriented driving experience. The fading pattern on the seats, console and doors were inspired by waves receding at a beach’s edge.
“Waves, whether from the sea or in the sand, are all about motion and flow,” said Nesbitt. “That’s exactly what this concept is all about – flowing design and the purity of the driving experience.”
Buick designers enhanced the passengers’ sensory experiences with next-generation QuietTuning and air-quality control, including advanced noise cancellation technology, ionic air purifiers and aromatherapy.
The Avista also advances Buick’s legacy of turbocharged performance, which carries forward in the 2016 Regal GS and other models. Similar to the 2017 LaCrosse, the concept twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 features fuel-saving Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and Stop/Start technology to complement its power with efficiency. The engine is backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and Magnetic Ride Control delivers more precise body motion control.
Unique: New Opel ADAM family members freely configurable right up to the smallest detail
Opel ADAM UNLIMITED
From now on, everything is possible thanks to Opel ADAM UNLIMITED and ADAM ROCKS UNLIMITED. The latest additions to the stylish Opel ADAM family have overcome the final configuration hurdles. The bold lifestyle car already shone with almost endless individualization possibilities – but now Opel ADAM UNLIMITED will take that to a completely new level. Customers can configure their own personal Opel ADAM right up to the smallest detail. Wheels, colors, decors, interior fittings – it is all in the customers’ hand. The Opel ADAM UNLIMITED is available for prices starting at €14,300 (RRP including VAT in Germany, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions combined: 6.7-4.2 l/100 km, 125-99 g/km).
Opel ADAM ROCKS UNLIMITED
“Ever since its launch almost three years ago our Opel ADAM has been a prime example for how much personality and individuality a small car can have. We are now taking this concept to the extreme with the Opel ADAM UNLIMITED and the Opel ADAM ROCKS UNLIMITED. Our customers can now let their creative imagination run wild. Every Opel ADAM fan can now have his own personal and distinctive car. That is truly unique,” said Jürgen Keller, Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales Germany.
How about a new color on the outside such as Orange Alert, Brownian Rhapsody or Greyzilla? Or a new color for the roof such as Dancing Green in combination with the extreme carbon package for the door mirrors and the grille and the “Swiss Blade” alloy wheels? The chrome package for the kick plates and the outer door handles along with seat covers in Morrocana are always on board. Automatic climate control comes as standard and increases well-being. The latest IntelliLink infotainment generation including smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is available as an option. The system enables quick and traffic-related navigation via Apple Maps and Google Maps.
IntelliLink R4.0 can read out messages from WhatsApp or Skype without affecting the navigation via Google Maps.
The Opel dealers have a further navigation option available in the TomTom GO 40 including FlexDock® mounting.
The portable TomTom GO 40 with 3D display and traffic updates in real time is available at Opel dealers.
Finally yet importantly, the Opel ADAM UNLIMITED can also be ordered with Opel OnStar. The personal connectivity and service assistant turns the Opel ADAM into a mobile 4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot for up to seven devices. Furthermore, it offers an all-round carefree package including Automatic Crash Response, Roadside Assistance and Stolen Vehicle Assistance along with Vehicle Diagnostics via the myOpel smartphone app.
2015 gave Opel its best sales performance in Germany since 2011 with over 229,000 new passenger cars being registered. Opel’s sales increased by around 10,300 units compared to the previous year, which is equivalent to growth of 4.7 percent.
On track: The new Opel Astra arrived at the dealerships in October and immediately increased sales in the compact class – in total, Opel sold 56,300 Astras in Germany in 2015.
In December alone, the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker recorded registrations of more than 18,800 new vehicles – an increase of 2,400 units or 15 percent. Compared to the same month of 2014, Opel’s market share was up by 0.5 percentage points to 7.6 percent giving the company its best December passenger car market share since 2011.
The Opel Astra is one of the main reasons for the improvement. 56,300 units of the compact bestseller changed hands – up 21.6 percent compared to the previous years. “That is a remarkable success because the new Astra has only been at dealers since October. Our Golden Steering Wheel winner has given the brand an additional push and will continue to be one of our growth engines this year,” said Jürgen Keller, Opel's Executive Director Sales, Marketing & Service Germany. Opel expects the Astra to deliver further growth, especially as the Sports Tourer, a very popular car in Germany, will be at dealers in the spring.
The Opel Mokka compact SUV was also a guarantee for success. The company sold 31,200 units across Germany in 2015 – an increase of 12.4 percent compared to the previous year. Both the Opel Mokka and the compact Opel Meriva MPV topped their individual segments in 2015.
