Opel Corsa Rally Electric: Early Decision in Title Fight?

• Seventh round of ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe”
• Reiter or Carlberg: Who will win the world’s first electric rally cup?

Tension in this year’s ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe” is rising. ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg on September 29/30 around Lübbecke can already bring early decision. World's first electric one-make rally cup is contested by drivers of identical Opel Corsa Rally Electric cars. With his third win of season at Rallye Mont-Blanc Morzine in France, Swede Calle Carlberg (23) has extended his lead over the German Max Reiter (also 23) to 11 points.

This means that Carlberg could secure title at ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg. If he is more than 35 points ahead of Reiter at the end of the asphalt event, the German will no longer be able to catch up with him at season finale at end of October (as part of the Central European Rally WRC-qualifier).

But the calm Scandinavian, who as always competes alongside his father Torbjörn, does not want to rely on that: “Fight between Max and I was extremely close all year long, and I see no reason why it should be different in Stemwede. To claim title early, Max would also have to retire, and I hope that won't happen. I want to become champion because I was best, not because others were unlucky. I continue to believe that the title will not be decided until the final round.”

Luca Pröglhöf only has a theoretical chance of winning cup title. Together with his co-driver Christina Ettel, 24-year-old Austrian, who has already been on podium twice this year, is aiming for more good results and duel for third place overall with fast Frenchwoman Sarah Rumeau. 28-year-old and her co-driver Julie Amblard recently celebrated their first podium finish at Mont Blanc.

Program foresees 11 special stages over a total of 113 kilometres. Action starts on Friday at 17:09 with three stages, restart takes place the next day at 09:01. First of fast electric cars is expected at the finish in Lübbecke at 17:19. .

Standings ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup (after 6 of 8 rounds):

1. Carlberg, 191 points.

2. Reiter 180.

3. Pröglhöf 126.

4. Rumeau 114.

5. Lemke 91.

6. Van Hoof 76.

7. Baur 72.

8. Gudet 46.

9. Mendoza 43.

10. Tarta 39.

Vauxhall wins ‘Best Family Car’ and ‘Best Fleet Website’ award at 2023 Business Car Awards

• Vauxhall takes home two awards at the 2023 Business Car Awards
• Vauxhall Astra named ‘Best Family Car’ for the second year running, while Vauxhall also wins the ‘Best Fleet Website’ award
• Judges praised Astra’s attractive design, low running costs and high equipment levels
• Astra available as a fully electric model with a range of up to 258 miles (WLTP)
• Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and will be an electric-only brand by 2028

Vauxhall Astra has been named ‘Best Family Car’ at the 2023 Business Car Awards. Vauxhall also won ‘Best Fleet Website’ at the ceremony held in London last night.

Annual Business Car Awards recognise and reward excellence in the fleet market, highlighting the best cars for fleets across various categories. Vauxhall Astra received praise from judges for its low running costs and eye-catching design.

Available as a hatch or Sports Tourer estate, with petrol, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants, Astra caters for a wide variety of needs. With zero-emissions-in-use, Astra Electric qualifies for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 2% (2023/24), making it particularly well suited to both fleet and business users. It will also be soon joined by Astra Sports Tourer Electric, furthering choice for Vauxhall customers who are looking to go electric.

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car, said: “With addition of more versions and body styles, Vauxhall has strengthened the Astra’s position. Hatch or estate, this Vauxhall’s design is eye-catching and attractive. PHEV and new EV models keep running costs low and all are well-equipped.”

Vauxhall’s website was praised for focusing on making it easy for fleet users and decision makers to learn about how Vauxhall can meet their needs.

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car, commented: “Vauxhall’s bright and clear website design was praised by our editorial team. However, it is the content, which is so much more considerate of fleets than any other top 10 OEM, that wins it our award.”

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “It is rewarding to see Vauxhall’s continued success at Business Car Awards, with Astra named Best Family Car for second year running. With new Astra Electric now on sale, it’s proof that Astra is a more attractive proposition than ever. It’s also pleasing to see quality of our fleet website recognised by judges. Whether it’s fleet or private buyers, Vauxhall is committed to making switch to electric as easy as possible as we lead the way in driving Britain towards an electric future.”

With the pending arrival of  Astra Sports Tourer Electric, Vauxhall will have a choice of six fully electric models across its passenger car range, in addition to being one of few brands to offer a fully electric model across its LCV line-up. From 2024, Vauxhall will offer a fully electric version across its entire range ahead of becoming an electric-only brand by 2028.

Best-Looking Small Car: New Opel Corsa Wins “autonis”

• “Best New Design 2023”: Small car bestseller Corsa clearly ahead of rivals
• Trophy lift: Opel head of communications, Harald Hamprecht, accepts award
• Exciting design: New Opel Corsa with Opel Vizor front and fully digital cockpit
• Independent jury: More than 14,500 readers of auto motor und sport cast their votes

Opel Corsa is not only best-selling small car of 2021 and 2022 in Germany and the United Kingdom. With its new appearance, including the characteristic Opel Vizor brand fascia and fully digital cockpit, it is now officially best-looking in its market segment. This has been confirmed by more than 14,500 readers of auto motor und sport, German car magazine, who voted new Opel Corsa the “Best New Design of 2023”. An overwhelming majority of 53.7 per cent of the votes in Small Car category went to bestseller from brand with Blitz. Autonis design award therefore goes to Opel for second time in succession. Last year, Opel Rocks Electric won prize in Mini Cars category with a similarly convincing result.

“New Opel Corsa is bold and pure inside and out; it combines practicality with driving pleasure and arouses emotions. Also, it already drives purely electrically and gives our electrification offensive major impetus. At Opel we are very pleased about clear vote,” said Opel Vice President of Communications, Harald Hamprecht, who accepted award during awards ceremony in Stuttgart.

Bold, pure, full of emotions: New Opel Corsa excites with performance and design

New Opel Corsa recently celebrated its world premiere at IAA Mobility in Munich and thrilled public there. As Opel Corsa Electric, it comes in two performance levels: with 100 kW/136 hp and a range of up to 354 kilometres and now with 115 kW/156 hp and up to 402 kilometres of locally emissions-free driving fun (according to WLTP 1).

Designers have made small car bestseller look even sharper and more modern. Most striking feature in front view is unmistakable Opel Vizor, characteristic brand fascia of all new Opel models. Black Vizor stretches across Opel Corsa front and seamlessly integrates grille, full LED headlights at sides and Opel Blitz logo in centre in one visual element. In side view, “cut” C-pillar appears to make roof literally float over vehicle. And at rear, Corsa's name now appears confidently in centre of tailgate. Opel Corsa also creates a modern, feel-good atmosphere in interior. Highlight here – both visually and technically – is optional fully digital cockpit with new infotainment.

New Opel Corsa’s combination of state-of-art technologies and pure, uncompromising design also convinced readers of auto motor und sport. For 18th time, they chose their design favourites online. A total of 14,507 participants cast their votes this year. There were 105 new models in 11 classes to choose from.

[1] Range values determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

50th Anniversary of Opel Kadett C: Car with Many Talents

• Summer of 1973: Third generation of bestselling Opel Kadett is launched
• Spoilt for choice; Opel Kadett C available as a saloon, coupé and estate with many additional variants including Aero
• Safety first: Three-point seatbelts as standard, base vehicle for the OSV 40
• Successful competitor: Sporty Opel Kadett GT/E celebrates rally accomplishments
• Compact driving pleasure today: New all-electric Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric combines dynamic driving fun with responsibility

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric celebrated its world premiere at IAA Mobility in Munich a few days ago. With its bold and pure design, modern technologies and a high level of practicality, it offers a lot of driving fun coupled with responsibility – and thus seamlessly takes the successful recipe of almost nine decades of the Opel compact class into the future. Before Opel Astra, Opel Kadett gave its name to the model series that was popular with customers for generations. One is now celebrating an anniversary: exactly 50 years ago, the third post-war generation of the compact bestseller from the brand with Blitz, Opel Kadett C, was launched for first time – and it was more diverse than almost any other model before.

1970s: Diversity is key, Opel Kadett goes around the world

A smart family car, a chic second car with a practical tailgate, or a sporty coupé – Opel  Kadett C range had many faces between 1973 and 1979. With clearly designed bodywork and a new double-wishbone front axle, rear-wheel drive Opel Kadett C made its debut in late summer 1973. Characteristic design features included a flat radiator grille, an engine hood with the brand’s signature crease, and a spoiler-shaped front apron. “Opel Kadett not only drives exceptionally well, it is also solidly built and finished. It requires little maintenance, is easy to repair and economical to run,” wrote car-test experts at “auto motor und sport”.

Customers were spoilt for choice and could find the right Kadett variant for every taste. Third Opel Kadett generation was initially available as a two- and four-door saloon in normal and luxury versions, as a three and five-door estate and as a coupé. Many more variants would follow, because Kadett C was designed as a “world car”. Not only did it roll off the assembly lines in Germany, it was also produced as a Chevette at Vauxhall in UK. In addition, it was also built in Asia, Australia and North and South America with slightly modified bodywork and technology adapted to local conditions. In Germany, efficient 1.2- litre engines with 38 kW/52 hp and 44 kW/60 hp initially provided propulsion. At the beginning of 1975, a particularly economical 1.0-litre gasoline power unit with 30 kW/40 hp joined engine range. And with 77 kW/105 hp GT/E fuel-injection model presented at IAA in 1975, Opel continued tradition of Rallye Kadett.

Safety first: First Opel Kadett with three-point belts, base vehicle for “OSV 40”

When generation C began rolling off the production line in 1973, it was first Opel Kadett to have three-point seatbelts in front seats, fixed to B pillar at top and bottom as well as at belt lock. A life-saving safety feature that, thanks to its simple one-handed operation, increased acceptance among many people who did not like seat belts. Also not to be taken for granted at the time: all buttons and switches were easy to reach, even with seatbelt fastened, and the instruments were easy to read at all times.

Biggest technical innovation of Opel Kadett C was double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs. An anti-roll bar was standard for all versions. Track width was 20 mm wider than the predecessor’s to further improve handling. Further developed rear axle harmonised perfectly, contributing to neutral handling and a high level of active safety. In event of a collision, features such as the impact-absorbing safety steering, crumple zones at front and rear and passenger compartment as safety cell minimised the risk of injury.

It was therefore no surprise that Opel Kadett C was used as base vehicle for the 1974 “OSV 40” safety vehicle. Stable longitudinal and transverse beams plus reinforced doors and sills protected the passengers in event of a collision or rollover. Vehicle was designed to withstand a frontal impact with a rigid obstacle at a speed of 65 km/h, equivalent to an impact at 40 miles an hour – hence the figure “40” in name. With this production-near prototype, Opel showed that optimum passive safety could be achieved not only with large and heavy vehicles, but also with compact, lighter cars. OSV 40 only weighed 960 kg. Experience gained from the development work and the testing of OSV 40 went into various subsequent production models.

Rallye-Kadett reloaded: Opel Kadett GT/E celebrates sporting success

Opel demonstrated that third generation Kadett was not only safe but also extremely sporty when Kadett GT/E celebrated its premiere at the 1975 IAA. Its 1.9-litre engine with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel-injection delivered 77 kW/105 hp. With a weight of around only 900 kilogrammes it could reach a top speed of 184 km/h. Its design polarised – and particularly delighted motorsport fans: Above belt line, GT/E was bright yellow, below it was black. It was not just young drivers who dreamed of GT/E back then; from 1976 onwards, well-known Opel works drivers who would soon make motorsport history took their seats in cockpit. Walter Röhrl and Rauno Aaltonen were successful with 165 kW/225 hp GT/E at Monte Carlo Rally and the Portugal Rally. Röhrl and Jochen Berger – the first professional co-driver in Germany – scored a sensational fourth place on Monte and Opel even achieved second place in overall brand classification.

Opel offered Kadett with a different kind of driving fun in 1976. With Opel Kadett Aero, the driver and passengers could let the wind blow through their hair and “cruise” around. Manufactured by Stuttgart body specialist Baur, Opel Kadett Aero was an extraordinary convertible that featured a roll bar, Targa top and a rear folding cover. Aero thus combined several cars in one: convertible, holiday car, and family vehicle as well as an all-rounder for city and commuter traffic. Nowadays it is considered a legendary classic that attracts enthusiastic attention at numerous vintage car rallies.

Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric: Modern driving fun coupled with responsibility

Newest Astra generation also offers plenty of driving pleasure – and in a particularly responsible way. For the first time in the long success story of Opel compact class cars, Opel Astra is fully electric. With new Astra Sports Tourer Electric, which was recently presented at the IAA and can already be ordered, Opel even has one of the first battery-electric estates on the market.

Electric motor produces 115 kW/156 hp and delivers a powerful 270 Newton meters of maximum torque at the first touch of the accelerator, ensuring brisk starts and impressive acceleration. And while many other electric cars are limited to 150 km/h or 160 km/h, new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric has a top speed of 170 km/h. Energy for a locally emissions-free range of up to 413 kilometres according to WLTP 1 is provided by 54-kWh lithium-ion battery, – which can be recharged quickly when necessary. At same time, the electric car combines all advantages of a spacious estate with bold and pure design of current Opel Astra generation. With this pioneering combination, new Astra Sports Tourer Electric has all it takes to successfully continue Opel's long compact class history.

[1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

In August, Opel increased car registrations in Germany by around 39 percent compared to the previous year and reached the TOP 5

• Market share of electric cars higher than overall market share
• More than every second newly registered Opel Corsa and Mokka is battery-electric
• Record market share of  9.7 percent for light commercial vehicles

Opel achieved strong results in Germany in August: According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), around 14,700 cars from the Rüsselsheim manufacturer were registered last month. This is around 39 percent more than in August of the previous year. Opel brand thus reached  TOP 5 in  KBA rankings. At 5.4 percent, the passenger car market share was above the previous year's value (5.3 percent), and cumulatively with light commercial vehicles it even reached 5.7 percent.

Battery electric vehicles with the blitz were particularly impressive. Opel's BEV market share was at an annual high of 7.5 percent in August and above the overall passenger car market share. Overall, around 45 percent of all Opel cars newly registered in Germany were battery-electric. This puts Opel well above the overall market, which according to the KBA had a BEV share of around 32 percent in August.

Opel Corsa Electric and Opel Mokka Electric were particularly well received by customers. More than every second newly registered Corsa was battery-electric. Opel Corsa also accounted for around 50 percent of all BEV sales in entire B segment. Two out of three new registrations for Opel Mokka were electric cars.

Opel also scored points in the light commercial vehicle segment in August. There, the Combo , Vivaro and Movano models achieved a new record on the German market with around 2,400 new registrations and a market share of 9.7 percent.

“In August, together with our dealers, we achieved an excellent result in what remained a very dynamic market environment in our home market and grew significantly compared to previous year. Our electrified vehicles are extremely well received by customers. Opel is electric. And both Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and new Opel Corsa Electric will give us additional tailwind,” explains Opel Germany brand boss Mario Köhler.

Opel currently has 15 electrified vehicles on offer, covering the most important market segments. These also include Opel Rocks Electric city electric car and Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN with hydrogen fuel cell. By 2024, Opel will offer at least one battery-electric model in all series. From 2025, every newly launched Opel will be exclusively electric.

Opel Experimental: IAA Mobility Highlight Moves To Open Space

• Battery-electric Opel Experimental offers insight into future of brand
• Visionary concept car now on display at Odeonsplatz in downtown Munich
• Booth design reflects brand pillars “Modern German”, “Detox” and “Greenovation”
• New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and Opel Corsa Electric also on display

Following the world premiere of Opel Experimental at the 2023 IAA Mobility Summit, visionary concept car has now moved to Open Space at Odeonsplatz in downtown Munich, where it joins new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and new Opel Corsa Electric. All three of Opel’s IAA debutants will be on display until September 10.

One of highlights of this year’s IAA Mobility, Opel Experimental is expression of three brand pillars “Modern German”, “Detox” and “Greenovation”. This is also clearly reflected in design of Opel’s presence in Open Space. Booth comprises semi-transparent materials and large format screens that greet visitors and symbolise the evolution of the brand’s corporate identity.

Use of screens as partition walls underlines “Detox” concept of Opel presence. Visitors to Opel booth will not find any oversized structure that looks out of place in the surroundings. Instead, forward-looking Opel appearance blends harmoniously with city setting.

Booth concept has also been designed with a circular economy in mind. Many components can be reused and recycled. Screens can be used again for future trade fairs or events. LED technology reduces power consumption, and the floors are made of recyclable material.

While Opel Experimental gives a clear preview of future of Opel brand, new Astra Sports Tourer Electric and new Corsa Electric show how brand with Blitz is already at forefront of electromobility today. Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is one of first all-electric estates on market and delivers a driving range of up to 413 kilometres (WLTP 1). Opel Corsa Electric once again demonstrates how Opel remains committed to bringing state-of-the-art technologies to mall car segment. New Opel Corsa Electric comes with a choice of two all-electric drivetrains: a new variant with 115 kW/156 hp and up to 402 kilometres range as well as the proven option with 100 kW/136 hp and up to 354 kilometres range (both WLTP 1).

Visitors to Open Space at Odeonsplatz in Munich can admire all three of Opel’s IAA world premieres at brand’s booth OP.390 until this Sunday, September 10, closing day of the 2023 IAA Mobility.

1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.>

Opel Corsa Rally Electric: Scandinavian Victory in French Alps

• Sixth round of ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe” in France
• Calle Carlberg wins Rallye Mont Blanc Morzine and slightly extends lead
• Max Reiter takes second place ahead of Frenchwoman Sarah Rumeau

As at last year’s premiere, Rallye Mont Blanc Morzine in 2023 was once again the scene of exciting battles in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe”. With his third win of the season, Calle Carlberg was able to pull away slightly from his pursuers at head of  world's first electric one-make rally cup. Asphalt event at the foot of the highest mountain in the Alps also saw another tough duel between 23-year-old Swede and his rival Max Reiter (also 23, from Germany). After seven special stages over a total of 131 kilometres Carlberg took victory by 17.4 seconds.

After Carlberg, as always with father Torbjörn as co-driver, had won first three stages on Friday, a puncture on Scandinavians' Opel Corsa Rally Electric reshuffled cards around four kilometres from end of SS 5. But with a fantastic best time in 29.1-km-long stage on Saturday morning, Carlberg converted his 7.8 second deficit over Reiter and his co-driver Conny Nemenich into a lead of 14.5 seconds.

Carlberg defended his lead in the final, 20-km-long “Power Stage” and was beaming from ear to ear at finish in Morzine: “This win feels fantastic! We simply enjoyed the rally. That is the difference from last year: I have a lot of confidence in the cockpit, I am relaxed and I just look forward to every special stage. It is clear to me that there are still two tough rallies ahead of us and nothing has been decided in the title fight, but the trend is positive!”

In overall standings, two rounds before end of season, Carlberg is now 11 points ahead of Reiter, who is far from conceding defeat. “Rallye Mont Blanc was another beautiful event, maybe even a little more demanding than last year. We are still approaching everything calmly, having fun in car and we will try to shorten gap at the Rallye Stemweder Berg so that we can then hopefully turn things around in final round (WRC Central European Rally).”

After a strong performance, Sarah Rumeau and co-driver Julie Amblard finally celebrated their long-overdue first podium in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup at their home event. With second-fastest time on longest stage of rally, just 1.3 seconds behind Carlberg, 28-year-old once again demonstrated her enormous potential. “We finally did it,” said Rumeau happily. “Rally went great. We had a big fight with Max. Of course we would have liked to come second, as we were only two seconds behind before last stage. But when we hit a stone in Power Stage and feared a puncture, we decided to settle for podium place. It is nice that we are closer to top here again. And we are not done yet…” Just beaten by  fast ladies, Luca Pröglhöf/Christina Ettel and Christian Lemke/Stephan Schneeweiß finished fourth and fifth respectively.

Special guest: Miss France in Opel Corsa Rally Electric

To delight of teams and fans, Miss France 2021, Amandine Petit, paid a visit to Opel Service Park. She was chauffeured in Opel Corsa Rally Electric over demanding special stages of rally by Rumeau and first electric rally cup champion, Laurent Pellier. “Two days as a guest of ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup were an incredible experience,” beamed the 25-year-old. “I admit I was a bit nervous at first, but I quickly realised that Sarah and Laurent had everything under control. From then on I was able to enjoy spectacular rides in Opel Corsa Rally Electric.”

Seventh and penultimate round of ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe” 2023 will take place on September 29/30 as part of  ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg around Lübbecke in Germany.

Standings ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup (after 6 of 8 rounds):

1. Carlberg, 191 points.

2. Reiter 180.

3. Pröglhöf 126.

4. Rumeau 114.

5. Lemke 91.

6. Van Hoof 76.

7. Baur 72.

8. Gudet 46.

9. Mendoza 43.

10. Tarta 39.

Electric, Easy and Exciting: Opel Experimental Celebrates World Premiere at IAA Mobility

• Opel CEO Florian Huettl: “Opel Experimental and new Opel Blitz logo symbolise electric future of the brand”
• On the road soon: New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and Opel Corsa Electric
• Forward-looking plan: Every Opel model with battery-electric variant in 2024; every newly introduced model fully electric from 2025
• Into a new online world: Opel presents new digital customer experience

“At this year’s IAA Mobility we are giving a tangible vision of the next chapter of the brand. The Experimental illustrates how we imagine the future of Opel: electric, easy and exciting.” With these words, Opel CEO Florian Huettl today announced the world premiere of the Opel Experimental concept car during the Opel press conference at IAA Mobility. In addition, Huettl, Opel Vice President Design Mark Adams and Opel Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann presented two further premieres with the Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and the Opel Corsa Electric. They also gave an exciting outlook on the electric future of the brand.

Groundbreaking Opel Experimental concept car is more than just a vision for the brand. Florian Huettl made that clear at the Opel stand B20 in hall B2. Opel Experimental stands for everything that defines Opel and the central brand pillars “Greenovation”, “Detox” and “Modern German”. It is fully electric, reducing the carbon footprint; it has a bold and pure design and focusses on the essentials; and it fascinates with its impressive proportions, intelligent aerodynamic solutions, highly efficient use of space and state-of-the-art lighting technology, including the Opel Blitz logo that is illuminated for the first time. “This is what we call ‘German Energy’” said Adams.

Huettl also gave an insight into Opel’s ambitious plans for the coming years: “In 2024, every Opel model will be available with a battery electric version. From 2025, all newly introduced Opel models will be launched as fully battery-electric vehicles only. This shows that we are not only ready for the biggest transformation in automotive history. We are ahead of it!”

From the IAA to the road: Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and Corsa Electric

Two other Opel cars also premiering at the IAA Mobility show how Opel is already making electric mobility exciting, suitable for everyday use and therefore easy for everyone: new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and Opel Corsa Electric. “Light and efficient,  Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric represents a highly attractive package for our customers,” said Huettl. More than 400 kilometres of electric driving range (according to WLTP 1) and a top speed of 170 km/h, combined with all the advantages of a spacious compact class estate, speak for the new battery-electric Opel estate – one of the first on the market. For people who want to drive a locally emissions-free small car, Opel has the new Corsa Electric. In this way, the manufacturer is already bringing electric mobility suitable for everyday use to the most important market sectors.

Buying a new Opel by scrolling: The new digital customer experience

Easy, everyday electric mobility starts not just with driving, but rather with the selection and purchasing process. “Shopping for an Opel must be clear, easy and fun,” summarized Reinermann. The brand is therefore modernising the entire online car buying process, making the experience easier and more exciting. A new digital experience down to the smallest detail: “Everything with a simple scroll. This makes buying an Opel vehicle fun,” said Reinermann.

Opel is represented at two locations at the IAA Mobility from September 5 to 10. Journalists and trade visitors can experience the brand at the IAA Summit booth B20 in Hall B2 of the exhibition grounds. General public can visit Opel and its cars at the open space booth OP.390 at Odeonsplatz in downtown Munich, which fits harmoniously into the cityscape with its forward-looking, minimalist and semi-transparent appearance.

[1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

Opel Corsa Rally Electric: Thrilling Fights Against Alpine Backdrop

• Sixth round of ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe” returns to France
• Rallye Mont-Blanc Morzine offers picturesque scenery and demanding stages
• Title fight continues; fast local drivers aim for top placings

In the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup it is no time to relax. Only two weeks after the exciting ADAC Saarland-Pfalz Rallye, the world’s first electric one-make rally cup visits France for the second time. As on its debut last year, the Rallye Mont-Blanc Morzine south of Lake Geneva represents an especially attractive but also extremely demanding task for the teams and the 100 kW/136 hp Opel Corsa Rally Electric. The asphalt event against the beautiful backdrop of the highest mountain in the Alps poses tough challenges for the crews and their battery-electric cars, but also impresses with a unique ambience; the picturesque winter sports resort of Morzine will be converted into a rally venue this weekend.

A total of seven relatively long special stages over a distance of around 131 kilometres await the teams on both days of the rally (September 1 and 2). The slopes lead steeply uphill and downhill with fast, difficult passages that demand everything from the drivers and co-drivers.

Title-fight in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup could hardly be more thrilling. 23-year-old Swede Calle Carlberg took the lead in the standings for the first time with his second victory this season on the ADAC Saarland-Pfalz Rallye. However, his lead over Max Reiter (also 23) is currently only five points – anything but a comfortable cushion with a maximum 35 points available at each event and three rounds still to go.

Focus of the many enthusiastic French motorsport fans will be on their compatriots. In particular Sarah Rumeau (28) from the FFSA Academy team will be seeking to make up for her disappointment in Saarland and together with co-pilot Julie Amblard score her long awaited first podium. Her teammate Cindy Gudet (27), who will be partnered for the first time by Jeanne Rey on this rally, and Anthony Rott (23) from Alsace will also be aiming for top placings on home territory.

Standings 2023 ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup (after 5 of 8 rounds):

1. Carlberg, 156 points.

2. Reiter 151.

3. Pröglhöf 105.

4. Rumeau 89.

5. Lemke 74.

6. Baur 62.

7. Van Hoof 56.

8. Gudet 46.

9. Tarta 39.

10. Callea and Wittenbeck, 27 each.

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric Available to Order Now

• Attractive financing in Germany: Highly equipped electric estate from monthly leasing rate of €359; five-door Opel Astra Electric for monthly €339
• Entry-level price: Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric from €43,490 (RRP in Germany incl. VAT)
• New chapter: Compact class bestseller among first all-electric estates on the market
• Top performance: 115 kW/156 hp, 270 Newton metres torque, 170 km/h top speed
• Travel locally emissions-free: 413 kilometres range (WLTP 1) thanks to 54 kWh battery
• Weight advantage: Battery-electric estate weighs only around 1,760 kilogrammes

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric will celebrate its world premiere at the IAA Mobility in Munich from September 5 to 10 and is available to order now. This makes the compact class bestseller one of the first battery-electric estate cars on the market. The new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is available in Germany with an attractive monthly leasing rate of €359 or a starting price of €43,490 (all prices RRP in Germany including VAT, excluding subsidies). The compact class estate offers a high level of driving enjoyment and can cover up to 413 kilometres accordance with WLTP 1 without stopping to charge. Weighing only 1,760 kilogrammes – less than many of its competitors – new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric also delivers a lively performance on the road.

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is already equipped with numerous electronic helpers and comfort features as standard. These include air conditioning, all-round LED lighting and the fully digital Pure Panel cockpit with two 10-inch displays and Multimedia infotainment system. In the Astra Sports Tourer Electric with top-of-the-line GS trim, the AGR-certified ergonomic Active sports seat increases comfort for the driver. The front collision warning system also has a traffic sign and speed assistant with stop function. The Intelli-Vision 360-degree camera offers an all-around view. In addition to the black exterior mirror housings and 18-inch light-alloy wheels, the sporty styling of the GS is underlined by the carbon-black roof, the black headliner and the high-gloss black Opel emblem and Astra lettering at the rear. GS drivers can order their Astra Sports Tourer Electric from €46,560 in Germany.

“With the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric we are electrifying the estate car market sector. For the first time, our compact class bestseller for work and family is all electric. This is what versatile, locally emissions-free driving enjoyment together with responsibility looks like. We are also making the offer especially attractive. From now on, customers can choose from two equipment variants not only for our electric estate, but also for the battery-electric five-door model," says Opel Germany brand boss Mario Köhler.

At the same time as orders start for the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric, Opel is also expanding the offer for the Astra Electric five-door with an entry-level variant, which is available from €41,990 or a monthly leasing rate of €339.

Spacious all-rounder for everyday use: Locally emissions-free driving enjoyment

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is efficient, exciting and above all versatile. The electric motor delivers 115 kW/156 hp and a powerful 270 Newton metres of maximum torque – available from the first touch of the accelerator pedal, ensuring brisk starts. The low kerb weight of around 1,760 kg contributes further to the lively progress. Also, while many other electric cars are limited to 150 km/h or 160 km/h, the new Astra Sports Tourer Electric has a top speed of 170 km/h. Depending on preferences, customers can choose between the three driving modes Eco, Normal and Sport.

Energy is stored in a compact 54-kWh lithium-ion battery, which offers efficient packaging, low weight, exemplary range and short charging times. The Astra Sports Tourer can cover up to 413 km locally emissions-free in accordance with WLTP 1 and requires just 15.0 kWh of electricity per 100 kilometres (WLTP2). The regenerative braking system ensures that energy can be recovered while driving. Even when the battery needs to be recharged, this means only a short “pit stop” at a charging point. The Astra Sports Tourer Electric can be charged to 80 per cent of the battery capacity in around 30 minutes at a 100 kW direct current fast charging station. In addition, the all-electric Astra Sports Tourer is equipped as standard with a three-phase 11-kW onboard charger for the wall box at home.

With vital statistics of 4.64 x 1.86 x 1.48 metres (L x W x H) and a loading height of around 60 cm, the new Astra Sports Tourer Electric is an all-rounder that combines sporty styling with locally emissions-free driving and Opel’s typical talent for efficient packaging. The battery is located in the underbody, so no space for passengers and luggage is lost in the interior. Even with the rear seats up, the Astra Sports Tourer Electric offers 516 litres of luggage space in the boot – with the seats folded down, the capacity increases to up to 1,553 litres. This provides plenty of room for several suitcases or tools as well as bulky objects such as transport boxes. Another advantage: The low position of the battery also lowers the car’s centre of gravity, so that the Astra Sports Tourer Electric has a solid stance on the road.

Intelli-Drive 2.0, IntelliLux LED and Co.: Top equipment plus practical packages

Optional Intelli-Drive 2.0 system integrates numerous electronic assistants and combines them for the first time with semi-automatic lane-change and intelligent speed adaptation. If the targeted lane is clear, the assistant steers the Astra Sports Tourer Electric into the desired lane with small steering movements. And intelligent speed adaptation ensures that – if confirmed by the driver – the vehicle's speed is reduced accordingly when a new speed limit is reached or increased up to that limit. In addition to sensors, Intelli-Drive 2.0 also uses information from the over-the-air network. IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, with 168 LED elements, increases safety still further.

To make it easier to choose options, Opel has put together practical packages for the Astra Sports Tourer Electric that are designed to meet the different preferences of buyers. The portfolio ranges from the Tech Package with IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, wireless charging and roof rails, to Comfort Packages with heated seats and steering wheel or electric sliding glass sunroof, heated ThermaTec windscreen, Intelli-Air system and sensor-controlled tailgate.