30 Years Opel in Eisenach: Visitors Enjoy Open Day

• Opel cars produced in Thuringia since 1992
• Prime Minister Ramelow and Opel CEO Huettl celebrate with employees and visitors
• Eisenach stands for top-quality Opel bestsellers and modern production
• Opel Grandland plug-in hybrid is first electrified model at Eisenach plant

Opel models have been rolling off the production line in Eisenach for 30 years. Thirty years that have shaped the car manufacturer and the entire region. Opel is celebrating this anniversary today with a ceremony and an open day for all families and friends of the brand.

Thuringian Prime Minister Bodo Ramelow and Opel CEO Florian Huettl opened the festivities with the ceremony. Representing 30 years of Opel in Eisenach, they spoke to 30 employees and 30 other invited guests.

“Eisenach has always stood for living history and progressive development. This is shown by the Wartburg as a landmark as well as automobile production. After reunification, Opel was one of the first West German car manufacturers to become involved in the new federal states – with great success. Today, the plant can look back on 30 years and 3.7 million vehicles that have rolled off the production line here. The many companies from the automobile industry are an important economic factor and the plant in Eisenach especially embodies that in Thuringia future has tradition”, said Minister President Bodo Ramelow.

Opel CEO Florian Huettl said: “With the new plant in Eisenach, Opel strengthened the region at the time and revitalised one of the most traditional German automotive locations. Since then, bestsellers have been produced here in first-class, almost proverbial Eisenach quality.” At the same time, the plant is fit for the future; “With the Opel Grandland plug-in hybrid, an electrified model is rolling off the production line in Thuringia for the first time.”

In addition to top vehicle quality, a key to the success of the Eisenach plant is environmental management, which has been a priority at the site from the very beginning. A success story that goes into the next round with electrified vehicles. “And that is why we are celebrating 30 years of Eisenach today under the motto 'Family and Friends'” said Huettl.

Almost all models produced in Eisenach since 1992 were on display – from the former Opel Astra generation and the best-selling Corsa small car, to the stylish ADAM and the brand's current top SUV, the Opel Grandland. In addition, Opel Classic presented further highlights from the company's 160-year history. Visitors could also take a test drive. The “Eisenach” Grandland, the compact SUV Mokka-e and the new Opel Astra were ready and waiting. There was much more for young and old to discover. Driving a forklift truck required a lot of skill. Plant fire brigade presented its technical equipment and the unique red Rocks-e also paid a visit to the factory. 

In the paint shop, a car body was waiting to be painted in bright colours and patterns. In addition, a varied children's programme and numerous other entertainment options made the open day at the Eisenach plant an experience for the whole family.