New Opel Grandland X now Available with Top-of-the-range Diesel and New Premium Trim

• Compact SUV with 130 kW/177 hp diesel and eight-speed automatic gearbox from €37,320
• 2.0 litre diesel adds new top-of-the-range variant to the newcomer’s engine line-up
• Ultimate comfort with prices for the Opel Grandland X Ultimate starting at €34,240

Top diesel for Opel Grandland X: New SUV is now available with the 130 kW/177 hp 2.0 litre diesel that also produces 400 Nm maximum torque.

The new Opel Grandland X celebrated its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and recently arrived at dealerships. Now Opel has decided to extend the powertrain portfolio for the dynamic SUV newcomer. The Grandland X can be ordered with the 130 kW/177 hp, 2.0 litre top-of-the-range diesel that delivers maximum torque of 400 Nm with immediate effect. It is combined with the new eight-speed automatic transmission for prices starting at €37,320 (all prices RRP including VAT in Germany; NEDC diesel consumption urban 5.3-5.3¹ l/100 km, extra-urban 4.6-4.5¹ l/100 km, combined 4.9-4.8¹ l/100 km, 128-126^[1] g/km CO₂).

“Our new Opel Grandland X embodies an adventurous spirit and freedom. Obviously, an especially powerful turbo diesel that promises additional driving pleasure while curbing fuel consumption is the ideal match. We have that in the new top-of-the-range 2.0 litre diesel for the Grandland X. Our new challenger in the SUV segment can unleash its full potential in combination with the smooth shifting eight-speed automatic transmission,” said Peter Küspert, Managing Director Sales and Marketing Opel Automobile GmbH.

In addition, the Opel Grandland X will also be available with the premium “Ultimate” trim, which includes a string of luxurious features as standard. The sporty yet elegant SUV becomes even more of an eye-catcher with the 19-inch BiColor alloys and silver coloured roof rails for prices starting at €34,240. Furthermore, premium ergonomic seats, leather trim, the Denon premium sound system and numerous ultra-modern assistance and infotainment systems promise a feel-good factor.

High-tech with driver pleasure guarantee: 2.0 litre diesel with eight-speed automatic

The new Opel Grandland X already generates a desire to get behind the wheel of the SUV newcomer with its generous interior, cool off-road look and athletic body work. Therefore, Opel offers lively petrol and diesel engines that guarantee efficiency and exciting performance. The latest addition to the line-up is the top-of-the-range 2.0 litre turbo diesel. The newly developed unit delivers 130 kW/177 hp at 3,750 rpm and offers maximum torque of 400 Nm at 2,000 rpm, giving the Grandland X all the power a freedom-loving SUV needs. With the 2.0-litre diesel, the Grandland X accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds. Top speed is 214 km/h. In addition, the Grandland X has a trailer load of 2,000 kilogrammes (braked at 12% gradient) in this configuration, making it an athletic and practical towing vehicle.

Despite its feistiness, the Grandland X is very efficient with its combined consumption of under five litres. The engine also comes with an efficient exhaust emissions control system with AdBlue injection (SCR, Selective Catalytic Reduction), which removes nitrogen oxides (NOx) from the engine’s exhaust gases. The watery urea solution, which contains ammonia (NH3), reacts with the nitrogen oxides in the SCR catalytic converter and creates harmless nitrogen and water vapour.

The exemplary values are also achieved thanks to the new eight-speed automatic transmission that comes in combination with the four-cylinder diesel unit. The Grandland X is the second Opel after the Insignia to receive a premium-level, efficient eight-speed automatic transmission. It is characterised by even better and smoother shifting quality compared to the six-speed automatic transmission.

Ultimate: Premium features for highest Grandland X travelling comfort

Premium Trim: Opel Grandland X is now available as an Ultimate model variant, with highest comfort, top connectivity and advanced technologies.

Elsewhere, the Grandland X – whatever the powertrain – can now also be ordered with the latest optional premium-level trim introduced by Opel: “Ultimate” stands for highly comfortable travelling pleasure with outstanding connectivity and ultramodern technologies and assistance systems.

Opel Grandland X Ultimate: Top equipment level includes assistant systems such as 360 degree camera and automatic Park Assist.

On the outside, the 19-inch BiColor alloys, the silver coloured roof rails along with the roof and door mirrors in diamond black give the Grandland X an even more impressive appearance. On the inside, AGR-certified premium ergonomic seats, leather features along with seat heating for the front and the two outer rear passengers guarantee cosy driving pleasure. Aluminium sports pedals further increase the sporty feeling when behind the steering wheel.

The Denon premium sound system, which is also standard in the Ultimate trim, creates an outstanding acoustical experience with eight integrated speakers and a subwoofer while DAB+ increases the amount of radio stations available.

Sounds good: Opel Grandland X Ultimate with Denon premium sound-system.

Driver and passengers are always perfectly connected thanks to the personal connectivity and service assistant OnStar^[2] along with the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible 

Navi 5.0 IntelliLink infotainment system with eight-inch colour touchscreen. In addition, compatible smartphones can be charged wirelessly.

However, Opel Grandland X is not just extremely comfortable. It is also extremely safe. Ultimate trim standard features such as the adaptive AFL LED headlights, the 360°camera and Advanced Park Assist ensure this.

Furthermore, Opel Grandland X also stands for best traction and stable handling on every surface. This is also thanks to the optional electronic IntelliGrip traction that ensures top road grip in diverse driving situations. The driver has a choice of five driving modes. The system then adapts the torque distribution to the front wheels, allows wheel-spin if necessary, and with the automatic transmission adjusts shift points as well as throttle response.

^1] With low rolling resistance tyres

^[2] OnStar Services require activation and account with OnStar Europe Ltd. Wi-Fi Hotspot Services require account with nominated network operator. Charges apply after expiry of applicable trial periods. All services subject to mobile network coverage and availability. Check [LOCAL SITE] for service limitations and charges

!NEW! Opel Strengthens Business in South Africa

• Fresh start: Unitrans Automotive to take over as importer as of January 1, 2018
• Fresh breeze: Market launch of the new Opel Crossland X crossover
• Bright prospects: Opel Grandland X, new generation Opel Corsa to follow

Off to new shores: Opel Crossland X will make its debut in South Africa in December.

Fresh start for Opel in South Africa: From January 1, 2018 onwards, the German carmaker will sell its vehicles with the help of Unitrans Automotive, a renowned name in the South African business landscape. The company already operates as a nationwide retailer for many brands and now adds the importer role for Opel. Opel retail in the country will be handled by via 35 dealerships, some of them owned by Unitrans, others by independent owners. As part of the new efforts, two flagship stores for the brand with the “Blitz” are under construction in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The new sales approach is accompanied by the market launch of the new Opel Crossland X – a B-segment CUV – in December.

Heading for new heights: Opel Crossland X will join the Opel Mokka X on the South African market in December.

Opel is in the midst of a sales offensive in South Africa. The new Grandland X, the big brother of the Opel Crossland X, will be introduced in the South African market in the first half of 2018. Subsequently, the brand will also offer the next generation of the Opel Corsa.

Also effective January 1, 2018, the Opel dealers will take on the aftersales business of GM brand Chevrolet. Chevrolet will no longer be offered in South Africa at the turn of the year.

The extension of the South African business is part of PACE!, Opel’s plan for the future presented on November 9. The brand aims to achieve a stronger international footprint and enter more than 20 new export markets by 2022.

“We view South Africa as an important market,” said Matthias Seidl, Opel’s Executive Director Sales Operations, at the presentation of the Opel Crossland X in Johannesburg. “South Africa is a strategic investment for Opel and our aim is to take the brand from strength to strength in South Africa and other key markets.”

Opel Mokka X, with total sales exceeding 800,000 units, is already available in South Africa. Therefore, the entire X-Family that also consists of the Opel Crossland X and the Opel Grandland X will be available on the most important African market in 2018.

Opel Crossland X: The stylish all-round for the city and the countryside

The Opel Mokka X, optionally available with all-wheel drive, is also suitable for off-road driving. The new Opel Crossland X – a real space wonder despite its compact dimensions – joins it in the B-segment. With a length of 4.21 metres, the new Opel Crossland X is 16 centimetres shorter than an Opel Astra while at the same time 10 centimetres higher. Occupants enjoy an elevated seating position and the excellent all-round view it provides. The newcomer offers outstanding innovations that make everyday driving safer, more comfortable and easier. These include innovative Full LED AFL headlights, Head Up Display (HUD) or the 180-degree Panoramic Rear View Camera.

Instrument panel and center stack are clearly structured and horizontally aligned to the driver. Soft touch materials and subtle chrome finishes around the cluster and air vents convey a message of high quality

Both the driver and the front seat passenger can take advantage of the award-winning and AGR-certified (Campaign for Healthier Backs) ergonomic seats with Opel being the only manufacturer to offer such comfort in the segment (in both the Crossland X and the Mokka X). Elsewhere, maximum boot volume of 520 litres – without folding the rear seats down – is class leading. In addition, passengers in the rear have the possibility to adjust their seating position by 150 millimetres in longitudinal direction, thus either increasing legroom or the capacity of the luggage compartment.

!NEW! Holden confirms All-New Astra Aportwagon heading to Australia

• European made all-new Astra Sportwagon set for Australian debut late 2017
• Astra Sportwagon combines sleek sports design with room for the whole family
• Bursting with technology including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic park and auto emergency braking

Holden announced the all-new Astra Sportwagon will be heading to Australia to join the recently launched Astra hatch and the recently announced Astra sedan to complete Holden’s most advanced small car range ever.

Following its popularity with European customers, and utilizing the same design language as the award-winning Astra Hatch, the incoming Astra Sportwagon boasts a spritely 1.4 litre turbo engine with six-speed automatic transmission and stop/start technology across the range.

Arguably the greatest attraction for adventuring families is Astra Sportwagon’s internal storage, with over 1,600L of boot space ensuring even the most indecisive of luggage packers is taken care of. Precious cargo is protected by a full suite of active safety technology including Auto Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert in addition to a Rear View Camera.

Astra Sportwagon’s technology also extends beyond safety with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, hands-free power tailgate and passive entry/push-button start, combining for ultimate driver convenience.

Holden’s Executive Director – Sales, Michael Filazzola, said Astra Sportwagon provides style, space and technology to customers whilst not sacrificing the engaging driving dynamics Astra has built its reputation on.

“With Astra Sportwagon joining Astra hatch and Astra sedan, we’re making sure there’s an exciting and desirable Holden small car to suit any taste or circumstance,” said Mr. Filazzola.

“Astra Sportwagon gives customers the best of all worlds with sleek, stylish design and impressive interior space, all supported by a wealth of driving and infotainment technology.”

Designed and engineered alongside its hatch sibling, at Opel’s Russelsheim headquarters, and built in the UK at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port manufacturing facility, Astra Sportwagon benefits from the same tuning setup as the hatch, co-developed by the Holden team over multiple European testing drives.

Astra Sportwagon will be the thirteenth new vehicle to be launched since Holden’s 2015 commitment to introduce 24 new models by 2020.  Holden’s new model onslaught also includes a further three vehicles confirmed; Equinox, Acadia and the next-generation Commodore.

Opel / Vauxhall Go Profitable, Electric and Global with PACE!

• Return to profitability by 2020: 2% automotive recurring operating margin, positive operational free cash flow^[1]
• Lower financial break-even point to 800,000 vehicles
• Electrification and CO₂ leadership: All passenger carlines to be electrified by 2024
• Improve efficiency towards benchmark levels for manufacturing and logistics cost as well as for wage cost/revenue-ratio
• Intention to maintain and modernise all plants and to refrain from forced redundancies
• R&D centre in Rüsselsheim to become a global competence centre for Groupe PSA
• Enlarge commercial scope: Leverage Opel brand for overseas export opportunities and foster growth of Opel/Vauxhall LCV business
• PACE! execution to immediately unleash Opel/Vauxhall performance and pave the way to a sustainable future

Carlos Tavares, Chairman of the Managing Board of Groupe PSA, and Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller with the new Opel Grandland X.

Michael Lohscheller, CEO of Opel Automobile GmbH, today announced the strategic plan PACE! to restore financial fundamentals and enhance sustainable competitiveness and growth. All PACE! initiatives will contribute to the goals of generating a positive operational free cash flow as well as a recurring operating margin for the auto division of 2% in a first phase by 2020 and of 6% by 2026. Combining strengths will unleash annual synergies on Groupe PSA level of €1.1 billion by 2020 and €1.7 billion by 2026. All actions will contribute to a lower financial break-even point for Opel/Vauxhall of 800,000 vehicles, creating a profitable business model whatever the headwinds may be.

Having full access to Groupe PSA technologies, Opel/Vauxhall will become a European CO₂ leader. By 2024, all European passenger carlines will be electrified – offering a pure battery electric propulsion or plug-in hybrid version alongside efficient internal combustion engines. By 2020, Opel/Vauxhall will have four electrified carlines on the market, including the Opel/Vauxhall Grandland X PHEV and the next generation Opel/Vauxhall Corsa as a fully electric vehicle.
 

The company will enhance its competitiveness by 2020 e.g. by reducing costs by €700 per car. Efficiency of marketing expenses will be improved by more than 10%. Overall efficiencies will be increased by reducing complexity across all functions with a ratio G&A/revenue moving from 5.6% to 4.7% and an objective to bring the company towards industry benchmark in terms of wage cost/revenue ratio. Optimising R&D and CapEx at 7-8% of automotive revenue, manufacturing and administration processes by 2020 and releasing working capital of €1.2 billion by 2022 will also contribute to seizing synergies.

 

Improved competitiveness of the manufacturing plants will lead to new vehicle allocations that will provide a better utilisation rate for the next decade. The two Groupe PSA platforms CMP and EMP2 will be localised in all Opel/Vauxhall plants. To start with, an EMP2 based SUV is planned for Eisenach in 2019; and an EMP2 based D segment vehicle is coming to Rüsselsheim. The allocation of new powertrains in Opel/Vauxhall manufacturing sites will accompany the shift from GM to Groupe PSA engines and transmissions.

“PACE! will unleash our full potential. This plan is paramount for the company, to protect our employees against headwinds and turn Opel/Vauxhall into a sustainable, profitable, electrified, and global company. Our future will be secured and we will contribute with German excellence to the Groupe PSA development. The implementation has already started with all teams eager to achieve the objectives,” said Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller.

The plan is designed with the clear intention to maintain all plants and refrain from forced redundancies in Europe. The necessary and sustainable reduction of labour costs shall be reached with thoughtful measures such as innovative working time concepts, voluntary programs or early retirement schemes.

All new Opel/Vauxhall vehicles will be engineered in Rüsselsheim, which will be transformed into a global competence centre for the whole Groupe PSA. First areas of expertise are identified, e.g. fuel cells, certain automated driving technologies and driver assistance developments. This will further guarantee German engineering quality and affordable innovations. Altogether, the number of platforms Opel/Vauxhall uses for its passenger cars will be reduced from currently 9 to 2 by 2024. Furthermore, the powertrain families will be optimised from currently 10 to 4. “Aligning architecture and powertrain families will substantially reduce development and production complexity, thus allowing scale effects and synergies, contributing to overall profitability,” said Lohscheller.

Opel/Vauxhall will switch to efficient and flexible Groupe PSA vehicle architectures faster than originally expected. From 2024 onwards, all Opel/Vauxhall passenger car models will be based on joint Groupe PSA architectures. Next to come are the Opel/Vauxhall Combo in 2018 and the next generation of the bestselling Opel/Vauxhall Corsa in 2019. This course will be steadily continued with one major launch per year.

Counting every body style, Opel/Vauxhall will launch 9 new models by 2020. This line-up will enable to increase the pricing power of Opel/Vauxhall brands and reduce the gap against benchmark by four points.

Sales growth of the further profiled and strengthened Opel/Vauxhall brands will be supported by initiatives like the start of even more attractive financial offerings as well as full service leasing offers via the Financial Services of Opel and Vauxhall.

Furthermore, Opel will enter more than 20 new export markets by 2022. Beyond that, Opel will explore global midterm overseas profitable export opportunities.

To foster growth in the financially attractive light commercial vehicle (LCV) business, Opel/Vauxhall will launch new models and enter new markets with the clear goal to increase its LCV sales by 25% by 2020 against 2017.

“PACE! has been designed by Opel/Vauxhall for the benefit of our employees as an immediate performance booster,” said Lohscheller.

 ^[1] Defined as ROI + D&A – capex – Capitalised R&D – Change in NWC

Euro NCAP Five-Star Rating for Opel Crossland X

Integrity of Opel Crossland X safety concept confirmed in Euro NCAP crash tests

In its latest safety ratings published today, Euro NCAP awarded the Opel Crossland X B-segment crossover the maximum five stars, based on good assessments in the four safety areas adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist. The Crossland X performed especially well in the side barrier tests, where it scored maximum points for both adult and child occupant protection.

Download Euro NCAP Report (PDF)

In addition to the safety equipment fitted as standard, such as Driver Drowsiness Alert and Lane Departure Warning, the Opel Crossland X also offers optional innovations for even higher driving safety: Forward Collision Alert with pedestrian detection and Automatic Emergency Braking, Driver Drowsiness Detection, high-tech Full LED headlights, 180-degree Panoramic Rear View Camera and Side Blind Spot Alert are just some examples.

Crisp and compact on the outside and especially spacious and versatile on the inside, with trendy two-tone paintwork and cool SUV looks, the Opel Crossland X has already convinced more than 70,000 customers from all over Europe since sales began in March.

Opel Helps Drivers Stay Connected Hands-Free

• Variety of infotainment systems and mountings for Opel cars from ADAM to Zafira
• Phone-operation via button-press, touch, remote control or voice recognition
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on selected IntelliLink systems

Top-of-the-line: New Opel Insignia features the latest generation Navi 900 IntelliLink infotainment system.

Using your mobile telephone while driving the car is forbidden in many countries. If you are “caught in the act” by the police, it can also be very expensive. In Germany, for example, where fines were recently increased and the ban extended to other devices such as tablets and e-books, just picking up your phone to look at the display risks a €100 fine and one point on your driving licence.

Fortunately for drivers who want to stay connected or motorists who use their smartphone for navigation, the German automobile manufacturer Opel offers a variety of infotainment systems and mounting devices across its passenger car range, which enable hands-free operation of the phone.

Depending on the Opel infotainment system, phones are operated either by button-press (at the entry-level), or by touch-screen and remote controls on the steering wheel and voice recognition. R 4.0 IntelliLink, Navi 4.0 IntelliLink and the top-of-the line Navi 900 IntelliLink infotainment system additionally allow operation of suitably-equipped phones via their own voice-control system, such as Siri or Google.

Opel brings the world of smartphones into its KARL, ADAM, Corsa, Astra, Crossland X, Grandland X, Mokka X, Insignia and Zafira models with the R 4.0 IntelliLink system. Depending on the end device, R 4.0 IntelliLink is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Navi 4.0 IntelliLink: Integrated navigation Opel KARL, ADAM, Corsa and Zafira

In addition to the advantages of the R 4.0 IntelliLink system – seven-inch touch screen display, Bluetooth-connectivity as well as both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility – Navi 4.0 IntelliLink adds integrated navigation featuring European roadmaps displayed in 2D or 3D and dynamic route guidance via TMC. With the OnStar^[1] “guardian angel” at their side, drivers can also have destinations sent straight to the navigation system (Destination Download), either by the OnStar advisor or via the MyOpel app. 

With the lean, clear menu structures of Navi 4.0 IntelliLink and its intuitive usability, the Opel KARL, ADAM, Corsa and Zafira belong to the best connected small cars and compact vans on the market.

In the Opel Crossland X and Grandland X, Navi 5.0 IntelliLink comes with an eight-inch colour touchscreen and also allows seamless integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via compatible smartphones.

The latest generation of the Navi 900 IntelliLink system available with the Opel Astra, Mokka X and Insignia ensures excellent and individual entertainment. The system is also compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which bring their respective smartphone worlds into the Insignia both quickly and comprehensively, building on the features smartphone users rely on most.

In order to make mobile phone-use in combination with Bluetooth even more convenient, Opel also offers wireless charging, which enables you to recharge your phone’s battery via an electromagnetic field, reducing clutter and the need for cables – just place your smartphone on the integrated charger and charging will begin immediately. Wireless charging is possible in the Opel ADAM, Corsa, Crossland X, Grandland X and Insignia.

Neat and tidy without cables: Wireless charging enables recharging of smartphones via an electromagnetic field, as shown here in the new Opel Insignia.

Of course, Opel also offers classic hands-free solutions such as the FlexDock mounting system for smartphones, which is available in the ADAM and Corsa. Fixed to the instrument panel, FlexDock also enables the smartphone to be used as a navigation system. Another advantage is that FlexDock recharges smartphones without any additional cables.

 ^[1] [Opel][Vauxhall] are not responsible for the provision of OnStar services or Wi-Fi services. OnStar Services require activation and an account with OnStar Europe Ltd, [a GM Company]. Wi-Fi services require account with OnStar Europe Ltd’s mobile network operator supplier. All services subject to mobile network coverage and availability. Use of OnStar services (except Wi-Fi) is free of charge for 12 months from registration date or delivery of vehicle, whichever comes first. Wi-Fi trial has a time limit and capped data allowance. Charges apply after expiry of applicable trial periods. Check [LOCAL SITE] for service limitations and charges.

Finalization of the acquisition of Opel and Vauxhall financial operations by Groupe PSA and BNP Paribas

• Creation of a new automotive finance organisation for Opel and Vauxhall.
• The new organisation will benefit from the experience of Banque PSA Finance and BNP Paribas Personal Finance’s expertise in the field of finance offers through an exclusive partnership with the Opel and Vauxhall brands.
• New organisation led by Alexandre Sorel, (Banque PSA Finance), CEO supported by deputy CEO Pascal Brasseur (BNP Paribas Personal Finance) and Erhard Paulat (Opel Bank).
• Strategic plan to generate profitable, agile growth will be presented in 100 days.

Finalization of the acquisition of Opel and Vauxhall financial operations by Groupe PSA and BNP Paribas

Groupe PSA and BNP Paribas today announced the closing of their joint acquisition of the financial operations of Opel and Vauxhall, announced on March 6th.

The new organisation combining the existing brands Opel Bank, Opel Financial Services and Vauxhall Finance is created. It will benefit from the combined expertise of financial captive Banque PSA Finance and automotive finance specialist, BNP Paribas Personal Finance to more effectively serve Opel and Vauxhall dealers and customers.

Opel and Vauxhall's financing operations are an essential element of the commercial performance of 1,800 dealers in 11 European countries. They provide a comprehensive range of auto financing products, including consumer loans, leasing and service contracts as well as dealer financing and insurance. Together, they represented around €9.6 billion in total financing at end 2016.

Alexandre Sorel, Chief Executive Officer, Pascal Brasseur and Erhard Paulat, both Deputy CEO, will take over the management of the new organisation.

From left to right: Erhard Paulat & Pascal Brasseur, Deputy CEO & Alexandre Sorel, CEO of the new organization

This new management will present in 100 days its strategic plan with the support of Banque PSA Finance and BNP Paribas Personal Finance. The objective of the plan is to accelerate the development of the entity, and to offer the most competitive offers to customers of Opel and Vauxhall.

Commenting on the transaction,  Chief Executive Officer Alexandre Sorel said: "We are now thoroughly committed, alongside all of the teams, to building the strategic plan with the clear purpose of improving the performance of the company's businesses and the competitiveness of our financial solutions for Opel and Vauxhall customers. Everyone's involvement across the company is critical at this stage."

"The development of this automotive finance company is essential to the growth of the Opel and Vauxhall car brands. We are proud to be joining forces to create the conditions for growth and to work with the teams to write another chapter in the company's history. Our complementary areas of expertise are a key asset for making this partnership a success." concluded Alain Van Groenendael, Chairman of BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Rémy Bayle, Chief Executive Officer of Banque PSA Finance

For further information about the new executive team

Alexandre Sorel
CEO

Alexandre Sorel (46) is the CEO of the new organisation, board member of Opel Bank SA and member of Banque PSA Finance Executive Committee.

Through several experiences within Groupe PSA from 1994 to 2017, Alexandre Sorel has a deep knowledge of the automotive industry as well as of the banking sector. He was previously CFO of Banque PSA Finance. Prior to that position, he held several positions in Groupe PSA, on the OEM side as in the auto finance business.

Alexandre Sorel holds a MBA from Neoma Business School, Reims (France).

Pascal Brasseur
Deputy CEO

Pascal Brasseur (49) has been Head of the Retail Business Line at BNP Paribas Personal Finance since September 2012. Pascal served as Commercial Director beginning in 2009 for Northern Europe (UK, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Norway). Prior he was General Manager of BNP Paribas subsidiaries in France specialized in Mortgages and Debt Consolidation. Prior to that, he held leadership roles in the financing area. He joined BNP Paribas Group in 1992, and began his career in Spain.

Pascal Brasseur holds an MBA from ESCP Europe.

ED Paulat
Deputy CEO

Erhard (ED) Paulat (48) has been Executive Vice President, U.K., Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Sweden at GM Financial International Operations since April 2013. In the same year, he was named Managing Director of Opel Bank in Germany, which he had been overseeing as Chief Operating Officer together with Austria and Switzerland, beginning in 2012. Ed Paulat served as Managing Director U.K. beginning in 2007, and assumed responsibility for Sweden in 2010. Prior to that, he held leadership roles on three continents and in various areas, including audit and commercial credit. He joined the company in 1992.

Ed Paulat holds an MBA from Henley Management College, U.K.