500 charging points at company headquarters already completed
Another 540 charging points will be implemented in public parking lots near Opel as part of the “Electric City Rüsselsheim” project
Battery container shows possible second life application of disused vehicle batteries
Opel is going electric: Nine electrified models on the market this year, with more to follow
Opel campus in Rüsselsheim already has over 500 charging points for the company's steadily growing electric fleet
Opel is pushing ahead with the expansion of the infrastructure at its home location, which is so important for electromobility. Opel campus in Rüsselsheim already has over 500 charging points for the company's steadily growing electric fleet. Another 540 publicly accessible charging points are currently being installed by the city of Rüsselsheim am Main in the parking lots around the company headquarters.
New Opel Corsa-e
Since all new Opel are designed and developed in Rüsselsheim, the expansion of the charging infrastructure at the company headquarters was of particular importance. Announced construction of around 500 internal charging points for company cars and development vehicles has now been completed, so that a steadily growing part of the company fleet can be driven electrically.
New Opel Mokka-e
Initiative is linked to two funding projects. One - E-Mobility Lab Hessen - is a partner for around 120 charging points in the engineering sector in Rüsselsheim and Dudenhofen, which can be used for development vehicles. E-Mobility Lab Hessen is doing research together with Opel, and the development center will become “a real laboratory for electromobility, power supply, intelligent charging stations and intelligent load management”.
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4
As part of the second funding project, Electric City Rüsselsheim, more than 380 charging points for company and company cars have been created on the Opel campus. Another 540 public charging stations will follow in the parking lots around the plant, which the City of Rüsselsheim will implement in a further step by Electric City.
New Opel Combo-e Life
Electric City is a joint project of several partners, to which the city of Rüsselsheim am Main, Opel, the RheinMain University, the municipal housing company gewobau and the mobility consultancy Urban Mobility Innovations (formerly B2M) belong. Together, the partners want to massively advance the expansion of the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. Funded by the Federal Ministry of Economics, around 1,200 charging points are being built, more than 800 of which will be publicly accessible within the entire city area. Opel has already implemented its part, and urban activities are currently following in all city districts and residential areas, on the campus of the RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, in gewobau residential complexes and in parking lots at shopping centers.
New Opel Zafira-e Life
Another aspect on the way to e-mobility: modular battery storage system, which was developed entirely in-house at Opel as part of the E-Mobility Lab Hessen, has gone into operation in Dudenhofen. Battery storage system uses used vehicle batteries from the Opel Ampera to temporarily store electricity. This stationary battery use in so-called Second Life serves to balance consumption peaks and thus stabilize the power grid. A total of 18 vehicle batteries are reused in the battery storage system, with the storage capacity of which eight electric vehicles can be charged at the same time. Alternatively, a four-person household could be supplied with electricity for a month.
Opel battery storage system in Dudenhofen.
Basis for the successful implementation of the extensive electric strategy lies in the models, of course - and a lot has happened here at Opel in recent years. From Corsa-e to Zafira-e, from Combo-e to Movano-e, from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles - Opel offers its customers a diverse portfolio of electrified vehicles and already covers the most important segments. But this is only the beginning. An electrified version of the Opel Astra will follow this year, and by 2024 there will be an electrified version of every Opel.
New Opel Astra Hybrid
Opel's electric offensive is part of the overall strategy of the Stellantis Group, which was presented during EV Day. Company aims to become the market leader in Low-Emission Vehicles (LEV). By 2030, Stellantis' LEV mix for cars in Europe is expected to grow steadily to over 70 percent - 10 percentage points above the current industry forecasts for the overall market mix. Stellantis is also working on innovative charging solutions.
Anniversary at the Thuringian plant: shortly before the start of the plant holidays, the 100,000th Opel Grandland “Made in Eisenach” rolled off the assembly line. It was a pre-production copy of the new SUV model. In addition to the new design of the brand with the lightning bolt, the newcomer also offers many innovative technologies, a state-of-the-art cockpit world with fully digital Pure Panel and a highly efficient drive portfolio. Electric plug-in hybrid versions are also included.
100,000th Opel Grandland
Plant manager Jörg Escher: “We in Eisenach are delighted that the conversion of the plant to the new Opel model is going so smoothly. Despite many pandemic-related restrictions, team did a great job, the quality was right, and we are on schedule for the official start of series production in autumn. "
Eisenach plant was fundamentally rebuilt in 2019 in order to localize the EMP2 platform. Among other things, the "marriage" - the connection of the chassis and body to one unit - has been completely modernized, and a more efficient and environmentally friendly painting process has been introduced. This modernization, the most extensive in the history of the Thuringian plant, made it possible to improve efficiency in all production areas.
Opel Germany boss Andreas Marx is looking forward to the car from Thuringia: “New Opel Grandland is our ultra-modern SUV flagship. With its sporty, elegant design and technologies from higher vehicle classes, it will delight customers. You have the full selection of highly efficient gasoline and diesel engines as well as powerful plug-in hybrid variants with or without electric all-wheel drive. "
Opel Grandland features Vizor new brand face like Opel Mokka
Top-of-the-line plug-in hybrids plus diesel and petrol engines
Opel Pure Panel fully digital cockpit with widescreen displays
IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, Night Vision, electric all-wheel drive
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4
New Opel Grandland is now available to order – with a new design, innovative technologies and a portfolio of highly efficient powertrains that include plug-in hybrid versions. New Grandland already offers state-of-the-art assistance systems and high comfort for a starting price of €27,250 in Germany (including VAT). New model features the Pure Panel fully digital cockpit. Additional highlights include the optional IntelliLux LED Pixel Light and Night Vision, which make their debut in the Opel Grandland.
Order books for the new Opel Grandland open today and the first cars will roll off the assembly line at the plant in Eisenach, Germany, around the end of autumn.
“New Opel Grandland, our flagship SUV, is available to order now”, says Andreas Marx, the head of Opel Germany. “With its sporty-elegant design, inside as well as out, and assistance systems from higher market segments, it will delight customers. They have the choice of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, as well as powerful plug-in hybrids with or without electric all-wheel drive. All at affordable prices.”
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4
Every Opel Grandland variant is highly equipped. Standard items include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition and drowsiness detection, as well as cruise control with speed limiter.
New Opel Grandland GS Line
Exterior design of the new Opel Grandland features the Opel Vizor new brand face. Inside, the entry-level variant already has the Pure Panel that combines a seven-inch Driver Information Center with a similar-sized colour touchscreen for operating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via the Multimedia infotainment system.
Even in the Business Edition entry-level variant, available for €27,250, the parking pilot for front and rear, the automatic parking assistant, the reversing camera and the blind spot warning system further increase safety. For matching performance, the Grandland is powered by a 96 kW/130 hp 1.2-litre turbo petrol direct injection engine (Fuel consumption with manual six-speed gearbox; NEDC 1: urban 6.2-5.8 l/100 km, extra urban 4.9-4.5 l/100 km, combined 5.4-5.0 l/100 km, 124-114 g/km CO2; WLTP2: combined 7.1-5.9 l/100 km, 161-133 g/km CO2).
Those who want to drive purely electrically and thus emission-free with a lot of power can choose one of the two plug-in hybrid variants. The new Grandland Hybrid can be ordered as a Business Edition starting at €44,290 (only €37,112 with the German environment bonus (Fuel consumption; WLTP2: 1.8-1.3 l/100 km, CO2 emission 41-29 g/km; NEDC1: 1.9-1.5 l/100 km, 43-34 g/km CO2; both combined).
New Opel Grandland as Hybrid and Hybrid4
With a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor providing drive to the front wheels, the Opel Grandland Hybrid produces system power of 165 kW (224 hp) and up to 360 Nm of torque. Propulsion system of the Opel Grandland Hybrid consists of a 133 kW (180hp), 1.6-litre turbocharged, direct injection four-cylinder petrol engine, an 81 kW (110hp) electric motor and a 13.2 kWh lithium-ion battery. Electric motor is coupled to an electrified eight-speed automatic transmission and the vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. Driving purely on electricity, the Grandland has a top speed of 135 km/h. Maximum speed is 225 km/h.
New Opel Grandland Hybrid: 1.6 T petrol engine and one electric motor and 13.2 kWh battery
Opel Grandland Hybrid4 combines the power of a 1.6 turbocharged petrol engine and two electric motors for a system power output of up to 221 kW (300 hp). WLTP 2 fuel consumption (weighted, combined) is 1.7-1.2 l/100 km with 39-28 g/km CO2 (NEDC1: 1.6-1.5 l/100 km, 37-33 g/km CO2).
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4: 1.6 T petrol engine and two electric motors and 13.2 kWh battery
Maximum speed of the Opel Grandland Hybrid4 is 235 km/h, with sports car-like 0-100 km/h acceleration of 6.1 seconds. Electric unit consists of two electric motors at the front and rear axles. The power of the front electric drive corresponds to 81kW (110hp) and that of the rear 83kW (113hp). The system power output totals 221 kW (300hp). Front electric motor transfers its power to the front wheels via an electrified eight-speed automatic transmission. Second electric motor and the differential are integrated in the rear axle, which turns the Opel Grandland Hybrid4 into a permanent all-wheel drive vehicle with optimum traction. Also, the high torque of the electric motors is available right from the first squeeze of the accelerator, delivering optimum traction on loose surfaces.
With the Grandland Hybrid4, drivers can choose between four different driving modes – “Hybrid”, “Electric”, “All-Wheel Drive” and “Sport” – depending on their preferences and requirements. “Hybrid” mode focuses on optimising the vehicle's fuel consumption, enabling a range of up to 65-55 kilometres in the WLTP2 cycle (69-67 km NEDC 1).
Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy during deceleration that would otherwise be dissipated as heat. The customer can choose from two recuperation modes that turn the electric motors into generators, so that electrical energy can be returned to the 13.2 kWh battery and stored.
Efficient petrol and diesel engines
At the same time, customers are free to choose the type of drive they want, depending on their requirements and individual preferences. Combustion engines that complete the portfolio of the new Opel Grandland are also characterised by high efficiency and low consumption. 1.5 litre turbo diesel with 96 kW/130 hp provides 300 Newton metres of maximum torque from 1,750 rpm and is available with an eight-speed automatic transmission (Fuel consumption; NEDC 1: urban 4.6-4.3 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.2-3.6 l/100 km, combined 4.4-3.9 l/100 km, 115-103 g/km CO2; WLTP 2: combined 5.9-4.9 l/100 km, 154-128 g/km CO2).
1.2 all-aluminium turbo petrol direct injection engine also develops 96 kW/130 hp and delivers its maximum torque of 230 Newton metres from just 1,750 rpm. The engine is available with a six-speed manual gearbox (Fuel consumption; NEDC1: urban 6.2-5.8 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.9-4.5 l/100 km, combined 5.4-5.0 l/100 km, 124-114 g/km CO2; WLTP 2: combined 7.1-5.9 l/100 km, 161-133 g/km CO2) or eight-speed automatic transmission (Fuel consumption NEDC 1: urban 6.3-5.8 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.0-4.4 l/100 km, combined 5.5-4.9 l/100 km, 126-112 g/km CO2; WLTP 2: combined 7.3-6.1 l/100 km, 166-137 g/km CO2).
Pure Panel, Night Vision, IntelliLux LED Pixel Light
Two widescreens in a single unit form the Opel Pure Panel. This fully digital, driver-oriented cockpit is intuitive to operate and makes a multitude of buttons superfluous. It comprises the latest digital technologies and delivers the most important information. In addition to the up to 12-inch Driver Information Centre, the up to 10-inch central touchscreen also faces the driver, who can therefore concentrate on driving without needing to take his or her eyes off the road.
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4: New interior Pure Panel
Opel’s SUV flagship is now equipped with adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light. 168 LED elements – 84 per headlamp, as on the Opel Insignia – result in a seamless adaptation of the light beam according to the driving situation and surroundings, without glare for other traffic.
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4: IntelliLux LED Pixel Light
Another technology that further increases the safety of all road users when driving at night is Night Vision. The system’s infrared camera detects people and animals up to 100 metres ahead, based on their temperature difference from the surroundings, and warns the driver.
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4:
Also new in combination with automatic transmission is Highway Integration Assist. Using a camera and radar sensors, the system combines various assistants. Adaptive cruise control maintains the distance to the vehicle in front according to the set speed, while active lane positioning keeps the Grandland in the middle of the lane. Thanks to “Stop & Go”, the Grandland automatically resumes driving from a standstill.
Confident appearance and high comfort
Exterior design displays typically clear lines. Opel Vizor stretches across the front, while the Grandland name and the Blitz brand logo stand in the middle of the tailgate. Further accents are set by the bumpers and side panels, now in high-gloss black or body colour depending on the version, as well as the underbody skid-plates in high-gloss black and silver.
New Opel Grandland Hybrid4: Opel Vizor
Ergonomic front seats certified by the “Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.” (“Campaign for Healthy Backs”) are unique in the Grandland’s class and offer a wide range of adjustments. In the leather trim they offer heating and even ventilation. Comfort is further increased by “Keyless Open & Start” and the power tailgate.
Top-of-the-line Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment system makes travelling especially relaxing. Wireless charging in the centre console provides neat and tidy “refuelling” for compatible smartphones.
[1] The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures mentioned are determined according to the new World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure WLTP (Regulation EU 2017/948), and the relevant values are translated back into NEDC to allow the comparability with other vehicles. Please contact your dealer for the latest information. The values do not take into account in particular use and driving conditions, equipment or options and may vary depending on the format of tires.
[2] The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures mentioned comply with the WLTP homologation (regulation EU 2017/948). From 1 September 2018, new vehicles are type-approved using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which is a new, more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The WLTP fully replaces the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which was the test procedure used previously. Due to more realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions measured under the WLTP are in many cases higher compared to those measured under the NEDC. The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures may vary depending on specific equipment, options and format of tires.
All-New Opel Astra electrified for first time as plug-in hybrid in two performance levels
Bold and pure design with Vizor and optional two-tone paint finish
Pure Panel fully digital cockpit with widescreens and intuitive controls
Efficient engines with 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmissions
Newest Intelli-Lux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements
Numerous automated assistance systems for high safety and comfort
Ergonomic AGR-certified seats, optionally in leather and Alcantara
Designed, developed and manufactured at Opel's headquarters in Germany
All-New Opel Astra Hybrid
Opel has today revealed the all-new, sixth generation of the Astra. Success story of Opel's bestseller began 30 years ago with the descendant of the legendary Opel Kadett. With the all-new Opel Astra, the German manufacturer is now opening the next chapter: for the first time, the compact class model is available with electric drive.
All-New Opel Astra: Only 4.0 mm longer than the previous model, despite the considerably increased wheelbase of 2,675 mm (+13 mm)
Opel will offer the new Astra in two performance levels as a plug-in hybrid. In addition, there are versions with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines in combination with friction-optimised six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions.
All-new Opel Astra is also a design statement for the brand. Dynamic as never before, with sheer, taut surfaces, detoxed of superfluous elements and with the new brand face – Opel Vizor. With the next compact class generation, Opel shows that the Astra is ready to define a new era.
All-new Opel Astra will launch this year as a sporty five-door with a low-slung look and yet more space than its predecessor. With a length of 4,374 millimetres and width of 1,860 mm, it hits the sweet-spot of the compact sector.
All-New Opel Astra: Boot with adjustable floor offers 422 litres of luggage volume
Thanks to the especially short front overhang, all-new Astra is only 4.0 mm longer than the previous model, despite the considerably increased wheelbase of 2,675 mm (+13 mm). Notwithstanding the muscular, confident stance, all-new Astra’s practical boot with adjustable floor still offers the driver and four passengers 422 litres of luggage volume.
New generation was designed and developed at Opel's headquarters in Rüsselsheim where production will begin this autumn. Like its predecessor launched in 2015, the newcomer brings innovations to the compact class that customers previously only knew from more expensive vehicles. For example, the Astra can turn night into day: the latest evolution of the adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel light comes straight from Opel's flagship Insignia and, with 168 LED elements, leads the way in the compact and midsize market sectors.
All-New Opel Astra: IntelliLux LED Pixel light
A leap in time has taken place in the interior of the new generation Astra. With the fully digital Pure Panel, analogue instruments are consigned to history. Instead, the new human-machine-interface (HMI) with fresh, modern graphics offers customers a pure, more intuitive experience. Passengers can operate the new Opel Astra intuitively via extra-wide touchscreens, just like a smartphone. Opel designers and engineers have taken great care to ensure that the driver receives all the necessary information and useful operating options, but is not burdened with superfluous data or functions. In addition, key settings such as climate control can still be operated via physical switches and buttons.
Typically Opel is also the outstanding seating comfort of the new compact class model. The front seats, developed in-house, are AGR (“Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.”) certified and, with their exemplary ergonomics, are exceedingly comfortable, especially on long journeys. Driver is supported by state-of-the-art assistance systems ranging from the head-up display to the semi-automated Intelli-Drive 2.0 assistance system and the Intelli-Vision 360-degree camera.
“All-new Opel Astra – a new Blitz is born! With sensational design and class-leading technology. Electrified and highly efficient for the lowest possible emissions; heading into a new era. Opel Astra is executed with the utmost precision down to the smallest detail. We are confident that the next generation Astra has all it takes to become another bestseller and attract many new customers to the brand”, said Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller.
New interpretation of bold and pure Opel design philosophy
After the Mokka, Crossland and Grandland SUVs, the new Astra is Opel’s first hatchback to interpret the brand’s bold and pure design philosophy. Opel Vizor (new face of the brand first seen on the Opel Mokka and the central exterior design element) follows the Opel Compass where the vertical and horizontal axes – the sharp crease in the hood and the wing shaped graphic of the daylight running lamps – intersect with the Opel Blitz emblem in the middle. Stretching across the front, making the new Astra look even wider, the Vizor also seamlessly integrates technologies such as the ultra-slim IntelliLux LED headlamps and the front camera of the Intelli-Vision system. Viewed from the side, the next-generation Astra looks especially dynamic thanks to the pronounced forward rake of the C-pillar.
All-New Opel Astra: Opel Vizor and IntelliLux LED Pixel light
At the rear, Opel Compass is repeated by the centrally mounted Blitz, vertically aligned high-mounted brake lamp and tail lamps (energy-saving LED, as is all exterior lighting). Blitz emblem also doubles as the latch for the tailgate, which is made of state-of-the-art composite material. This technology is not only light in weight and rigid, it also allows the precise execution of design details such as the especially slim tail lamps.
All-New Opel Astra: Vertically aligned high-mounted brake lamp and Full LED tail lamps
“All-new Opeel Astra represents the exciting next step of our new design execution”, says Vice President Design, Mark Adams. “With its bold Vizor front face, strong muscular wheel arch blisters and sheer surfacing, all-new Opel Astra has a very sporty and confident personality. Interior also takes a bold step into the future. Strong driver-orientated cockpit with seamless glass look of the new Pure Panel will bring a whole new emotional experience to our customers.”
Next-generation Pure Panel digital cockpit with fully-glazed option
Same German precision applies throughout the interior where the absolute highlight is the next generation of the Pure Panel, first introduced in the Opel Mokka. This expansive, digital cockpit (optionally fully glazed) features two 10-inch displays, seamlessly integrated – together with the driver’s side air vent – in a horizontal format. Thanks to a shutter-like layer that prevents upward reflections in the windscreen, design dispenses with a hood over the displays, which further enhances the high-tech functionality and ambience.
All-New Opel Astra: Next-generation Pure Panel
With the physical controls reduced to the minimum in the form of finely crafted keys, the Pure Panel achieves the optimum balance between digitisation and intuitive operation, detoxed of irritating visual stimuli and without the need for sub-menus. There is no need for cables either, since the new generation of multimedia infotainment systems with connected services – which can be operated by natural language voice control as well as by touch – can be connected as standard on all model variants to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via compatible smartphones.
Dynamic yet composed handling, “Autobahnproof” braking and stability
All-new Opel Astra is based on the third generation of the highly flexible EMP2 multi-energy architecture, with Opel DNA built in from the start of development. This means that the handling is composed as well as dynamic and that the new model – like every Opel – is “Autobahnproof”. In other words, high-speed capability was a primary development objective.
Steering and lateral stiffness of the chassis – McPherson strut suspension at the front, torsion bar at the rear – are designed for high yaw control (damping of the movement around the horizontal axis). Under braking, the new model delivers strong stopping power and remains highly stable in curves as well as in a straight line. Torsional rigidity of the new Astra is 14 per cent higher than the predecessor’s.
Advanced driver assistance systems including semi-automatic lane change
All-new Astra’s architecture also incorporates the latest automated driver assistance systems. In addition to the multifunction camera in the windscreen, the technology comprises four body cameras (one at the front, one at the rear and one on each side), five radar sensors (one at the front and one at each corner), as well as ultrasonic sensors front and rear.
Cameras and sensors are integrated with e-horizon connectivity in Intelli-Drive 2.0, which extends the range of the cameras and the radar. This enables the system to adapt the speed in curves, make speed recommendations and perform semi-automatic lane changes. Hands-off detection on the steering wheel ensures the driver remains engaged at all times.
Rear cross-traffic alert, long-range blind-spot detection and active lane positioning, which keeps the car in the middle of the driving lane, comprise Intelli-Drive 1.0.
Long list of automated driver assistance systems also includes adaptive cruise control, which increases or decreases speed to follow the vehicle ahead – without exceeding the set speed – and can brake to a standstill if necessary. With the automatic transmission, driving resumes automatically thanks to “Stop & Go”.
Offer of class-leading assistance systems additionally features a large head-up display and Intelli-Vision, a camera and radar-based system for easier parking.
New Opel Astra brings premium Intelli-Lux Pixel Light to compact market sector
Astra’s role as advanced technology carrier continues in lighting and seats, typical areas of expertise for the Opel brand. Previous model played a pioneering role in the introduction of adaptive matrix light in 2015 and the next-generation is now bringing the newest development in lighting to the compact market sector for the first time – IntelliLux LED Pixel Light. This state-of-the-art technology, already available on Opel’s Grandland SUV and Insignia flagships, features a segment-leading total of 168 LED elements – 84 in each ultra-slim headlamp. Main beam adjusts seamlessly in milliseconds, without glare for other road users. Approaching or preceding traffic is “cut out” precisely. Range and direction of the light vary according to the driving situation and surroundings.
Best-in-class AGR ergonomic seats with massage and ventilation
Opel’s ergonomic AGR seats enjoy an award-winning reputation and the all-new OpelAstra continues this long-standing tradition. Certified by “Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V.” (“Campaign for Healthy Backs”) the position of the front seats is 12 mm lower than in the previous model, further enhancing the feeling of a “sporty” drive. Good posture is guaranteed, with the foam density of the seats optimised according to the “Sport” or “Comfort” contours.
All-New Opel Astra: AGR front seats
All-new Astra’s AGR front seats are the best the compact class has to offer and feature a wide range of optional adjustments, from electric tilt to electro-pneumatic lumbar support. In Nappa leather-trim, they even offer ventilation, massage for the driver and heating at the rear as well as the front. Seats trimmed in stylish Alcantara are also available.
All-New Opel Astra goes electric for first time with powerful plug-in hybrids
All-new Astra will be available from the start of sales with powerful plug-in hybrid electric drive as well as highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, electrifying Opel’s compact class model for the first time in the brand’s history. Power ranges from 81 kW (110 hp) to 96 kW (130 hp) with the petrol and diesel variants and up to 165 kW (225 hp) system output with the plug-in hybrid variants. A six-speed gearbox is standard on the petrol and diesel power units, with an eight-speed automatic transmission (electrified on the plug-in hybrids) optional on the more powerful engines.
Opel will open the order books for the new Astra this autumn. The first customers will take delivery of their cars early next year.
Opel is opening the next chapter of its comprehensive electrification offensive: Tradition-rich German brand is currently not only expanding the electric model portfolio but will focus entirely on battery electric vehicles in Europe as of 2028. Opel will also enter the world's largest automobile market China – as a purely electric brand. Furthermore, legendary Opel Manta will celebrate its comeback as a purely electric car.
Opel Manta-e concept
“As of 2028, Opel will only offer electric cars in our core market Europe,” said CEO Michael Lohscheller at the digital Stellantis EV Day 2021. “This clearly shows the commitment of the Opel brand to electric mobility. Future of the automotive industry is electric – and Opel is part of that. We are on a journey to reinventing Opel and transforming ourselves into a young, green and global brand,” Lohscheller added. “Opel is moving from cold to cool. We are heading towards a net zero CO2 future as CO2 is the new currency in our industry.”
In addition, the final decision to bring the Opel brand back to China has now been taken. More details will be published in due course. “We promised that Opel will go global – and we will deliver. China is the largest automotive market in the world and we are sure that we will grow profitably there. Chinese customers can look forward to our products and our emotional German brand," said CEO Michael Lohscheller.
Lohscheller also announced that Opel will reinvent the legendary Manta, after the tremendous feedback the brand received when presenting the Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD. “The Manta is a real icon in our brand’s history and an inspiration for its future. We will bring a new Manta into serial production by mid-decade. Purely electric, of course,” said Michael Lohscheller.
Opel is in the middle of an extensive electrification offensive: Brand will already have nine electrified models on offer this year, and all models will also be available in electrified versions by 2024.
Multi-millionaire: Astra F Opel’s top seller so far with 4.13 million units produced
In tune with the times: Opel Astra F embodied spirit of change in early 1990s
Highlights: New safety systems, spacious interior and environmental compatibility
Innovations: “Multi Info Display”, “Clean Air System” and electronic traction control
“H” licence plate: Cars delivered in late 1991 can be registered as historic vehicles
Opel Astra F
When the Opel Astra F made its world premiere in 1991, it was a time of great change. “Iron Curtain” dividing Europe had recently lifted and the “Cold War” had ended. Owing to incidents such as the Exxon Valdez oil spill, people were becoming more aware of humanity’s impact on the environment. Carmakers needed to balance the need for lower emissions and fuel consumption against the rising demand for higher comfort.
Opel Astra 5-door (1991)
Seventh generation of Opel’s compact model totally embodied this spirit of change. It acquired not only a new name – Astra, like its British Vauxhall stablemate – but also a wealth of newly developed safety systems. Compared to its predecessor, Astra F offered considerably more interior space on a similarly sized exterior footprint. It also placed great emphasis on environmental compatibility, with its high level of recyclability taking a significant step toward closing the loop in raw materials, especially synthetics. Car buyers were mightily impressed by these attributes. With Opel producing around 4.13 million units between 1991 and 1997, Astra F is the brand’s bestselling model so far.
Opel Astra Caravan (1991)
Model range of the Astra F catered for every taste. Customers had the choice of five petrol engines and one diesel, the four-cylinder power units all boasting the state-of-the-art in exhaust gas after-treatment. While the 1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines were equipped with a three-way catalytic converter, the 1.7-litre diesel featured a newly developed oxidation catalyst.
Opel Astra GSi (1991)
First variants delivered to dealerships in October 1991 were the five-door hatchback, five-door Caravan estate and the sporty Astra GSi. These cars can be registered as historic vehicles this year. Available exclusively as a three-door “hot-hatch”, the top-of-the-line GSi offered a choice of 85 kW (115 hp) or 110 kW (150 hp) 2.0-litre engines, the latter with 16 valves and dual overhead camshafts. Four-door notchback arrived in spring 1992, followed one year later by the Opel Astra convertible, made by Italian coachbuilder Bertone.
Opel Astra Sedan (1992)
Opel Astra Cabrio (1993)
Heart of the matter: Safety, interior space and environmental compatibility
High standard of the Astra F’s safety package marked a major step forward in the compact class. Opel Safety System comprised, among others, dual steel bars in the doors for side impact protection, supportive ramps in the seats to prevent submarining under the safety belt and front seat belt tensioners that reduced forward movement of the seat occupant’s body in the event of a severe frontal collision. Passive safety increased still further in 1994, when Opel made “full-size” driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Opel Astra (1994): Full-size driver and front passenger airbags
“Full size” also applied to the new model’s passenger compartment. In comparison to the Kadett E, Opel’s engineers endowed the Astra F with much more interior space, for example, by placing the windscreen 74 millimetres further forward and increasing headroom and knee room by up to 50 mm. Despite the newfound spaciousness, the Astra F retained the high aerodynamic efficiency typical of every Opel, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.30 cD.
In addition to high safety and roominess, environmental compatibility lay at the heart of the Astra F’s construction. Much of the instrument panel, interior trim, seats and centre console were made of polypropylene, for which Opel had developed an innovative environmentally compatible recycling process. Other parts, such as the bumper supports and wheel arch linings, were themselves already made of recycled material.
Safety and the environment were not the only areas of innovation on the Astra F. The “Multi-Info Display” at the top of the centre console was a world first, combining the displays for the radio, on-board computer and check control all within the driver’s field of vision. The new model was also the first in the compact class with a “Clean Air System” that protected the occupants from pollen, dust and dirt particles, while the GSi 16V was the first car with electronic traction control in the Astra’s market segment.
Opel Astra F as technology platform: “Impuls III” electric drive and CNG alternative fuel
Opel Astra F also served as an innovation platform for alternative propulsion systems. All-electric “Astra Impuls III” demonstrated its effectiveness during large-scale testing on the Baltic island of Rügen. Ten prototypes covered a total of 350,000 kilometres between 1993 and 1997. Five were powered by a 45 kW nickel-cadmium battery, the remainder by a 42 kW sodium nickel-chloride battery. Opel Astra Impuls III had a top speed of 120 km/h and a maximum range of 160 km.
All-electric: Opel Astra Impuls III
Opel expanded its research into alternative fuels in 1996 with a limited production of Astra Caravan estates running on climate-friendly compressed natural gas (CNG). Selected utility companies, local authorities and fleet operators tested the 500 CNG-fuelled cars under everyday conditions.
Opel Astra F is the bestselling Opel so far. New safety systems, interior roominess and environmental compatibility were three of its highlights. Model successfully addressed subjects that were important to consumers in the early 1990s and brought many innovations to its market segment. The seventh generation of Opel’s compact car (and the first to bear the “Astra” nameplate) was an automobile truly in tune with the times.
Ellesmere Port to become Stellantis’s first manufacturing site dedicated to battery electric LCV and passenger car models for Vauxhall, Opel, Peugeot and Citroën
Industrial performance improvements as a result of strong cooperation between the company, the Unite Union and, most importantly, the workforce
Stellantis £100million investment supported by the UK government to secure an all-electric future for the plant
Ambition for Ellesmere Port plant to be carbon neutral by mid-decade
Ellesmere Port to support Stellantis Europe’s leading LCV position
Vauxhall continuing its tradition of manufacturing vehicles in the UK, which started in 1903
Stellantis announces a £100million investment in Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port manufacturing plant to transform the site for a new era in electric vehicle manufacturing. Ellesmere Port will become the first Stellantis plant to produce a solely battery-electric model, in both commercial and passenger versions, by the end of next year, for Vauxhall, Opel, Peugeot and Citroën brands and for both domestic and export markets. This dedication to battery electric vehicles will go towards achieving the UK Government’s decision to stop sales of pure petrol and diesel engined vehicles from 2030.
Stellantis investment in Ellesmere Port will leverage the performance improvement actions that have been made possible thanks to a collaborative process between the company, the Unite the Union and based on the workforce’s drive to transform their plant.
Stellantis strong willingness to ensure a sustainable future for Ellesmere Port has been consistently supported by the UK Government, the Cheshire West and Chester Council, Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise partnership and Chester College.
Carlos Tavares, Chief Executive Officer at Stellantis, said: “Performance is always the trigger for sustainability and this £100million investment demonstrates our commitment to the UK and to Ellesmere Port. I particularly want to thank our highly skilled, dedicated workforce for their patience and contribution; we never let them down. Equally, I want to thank our partners the Unite Union for their open mind set and strong cooperation and, of course, the UK Government for their continued support. Producing battery electric vehicles here will support clean, safe and affordable mobility for the citizens. Since 1903 Vauxhall has manufactured vehicles in Britain and we will continue to do so.”
UK Government, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Kwasi Kwarteng, said: “Ellesmere Port’s proud tradition in auto manufacturing will continue for many years to come thanks to today’s investment. Stellantis’ decision to double down on their commitment to this site is a clear vote of confidence in the UK as one of the best locations globally for competitive, high-quality automotive production.
Today’s decision will not only power Ellesmere Port into a clean future, but will secure thousands of jobs across the region in the supply chain. In this global race to secure electric vehicle production, we are proud to support Britain’s auto sector in this crucial transition as we work to build back better.”
Plant at Ellesmere Port will celebrate its 60th anniversary next year, having been built in 1962, and produced its first car, the Vauxhall Viva, in 1964. Since that time, it has produced subsequent generations of the Vauxhall Viva, the Vauxhall Chevette and then each generation of the Vauxhall and Opel Astra. In total, since 1964, it has built over 5.2 million vehicles.
This new era of manufacturing will see a transformation of the Ellesmere Port plant “fit for the future”, with a new body shop, upgraded general assembly, a compression of the site area and the creation of an on-site battery pack assembly. In addition, there will be further support to enable a pathway to carbon neutrality for the plant by the middle of this decade. The plant aims to be 100% self-sufficient for electricity and work will commence imminently on potential wind and solar farms.
Stellantis has also announced the intention to consult on further investment into the Ellesmere Port site with the creation of a new UK parts distribution centre.
From later next year, Ellesmere Port will build the following all-electric vehicles:
Electric LCV:
Vauxhall Combo-e
Opel Combo-e
Peugeot e-Partner
Citroën e-Berlingo
Electric Passenger Car:
Vauxhall Combo-e Life
Opel Combo-e Life
Peugeot e-Rifter
Citroën e-Berlingo
These light commercial vehicles, and their passenger car variants, are all powered by a 100kW (136hp) motor with a 50kWh lithium-ion battery. They are able to be charged at up to 100kW and take just 30 minutes to charge from 0% to 80%. Under WLTP conditions, they are capable of up to 174 miles of range.
Stellantis is the LCV market leader in Europe and, in the UK, Vauxhall leads sales in the fast growing all-electric LCV segment.
Vauxhall, Opel, Peugeot and Citroën brands have already committed to each offering all-electric versions of their entire respective van model ranges before the end of 2021. Fiat Professional is also committed to offering electrified and alternatively fuelled versions across its van range.
With rising LCV usage in urban areas, partly due to the growth in demand for online delivery services, these zero-emissions-in-use vans will make a significant contribution to reducing emissions in towns and cities across the country.
The passenger car version will enable families to enjoy a “zero emission” active life with up to seven seats, benefitting from a modern high-tech interior, with great levels of comfort and adaptability and interior space, premium comfort and smart safety features.
