Monday, 14 April 2025

New Opel Mokka: First-class Digital Infotainment Experience

  • Cockpit based on the next generation Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform and Snapdragon® Auto Connectivity Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
  • Highly customisable 10-inch digital driver information and colour touchscreen as standard
  • Colour touchscreen can be operated via widgets like a smartphone
  • Natural voice recognition ‘Hey Opel’ in combination with navigation system
  • Intelligent ChatGPT functionalities for the first time in new Opel Mokka
  • 180-degree HD rear-view camera ensures excellent visibility when manoeuvring in city

While new Opel Mokka is as eye-catching as ever thanks to its gently sharpened exterior design, it truly impresses with its refreshed interior with new technologies and innovations. Thanks to the new cockpit and infotainment, Mokka drivers can look forward to an even more connected and relaxed journey. This is ensured by Snapdragon®'s state-of-the-art technology platform as well as standard equipment with 10-inch screens that can be personalised in many ways. With ChatGPT 2, artificial, co-learning intelligence comes into play in Opel Mokka for first time, making every car journey more pleasant and entertaining. New Opel Mokka is stylistically refined on outside and on a new level on inside – bold, pure, intuitive and forward-looking    

Intelligent, intuitive, customisable: Upgraded Opel Mokka infotainment system

New multimedia and navigation infotainment system takes Opel Mokka to next level. Cockpit utilises Qualcomm Technologies’ next generation Snapdragon Cockpit Platform and Snapdragon Auto Connectivity Platform 1 to enable premium in-vehicle experiences, including state-of-the-art graphics, multimedia and enhanced connectivity capabilities such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and 4G.

Further developed bestseller now offers a 10-inch digital driver information display and an equally large colour touchscreen as standard. Latter can be easily operated via widgets, just like a smartphone – alternatively and in combination with the optional navigation system, a ‘Hey Opel’ is enough to use  natural voice recognition. Both displays can be personalised in many ways. System recognises driver's personal profile on connected smartphone; connection is always wireless in new Opel Mokka. Various virtual shortcuts can be set up on central screen and up to seven different colour schemes for preferred ambience offer further customisation options.

When ordered with integrated navigation system, map updates are made available automatically over-the-air. System also constantly learns and – based on habits of linked driver profile – independently suggests destinations and routes. myOpel app can also be used to easily send the destination and the corresponding route to the vehicle. Another advantage for drivers of all-electric Opel Mokka Electric: After entering the desired destination, the remaining charge level of the battery upon arrival is displayed. This is determined according to the previous driving style. Route can also be planned including charging stops along the way. System then calculates possible driving and charging times. And the screen of the battery-electric SUV provides customers with a wide range of information and statistics on energy consumption, charge level and remaining range, as well as energy recuperation.

So much information: ChatGPT makes new Opel Mokka even smarter

In addition, Opel offers an innovative solution for new Mokka and other models to make it easier to find your way around in unfamiliar surroundings or simply to make long journeys more entertaining: ChatGPT 2, which is available in conjunction with Connected Navigation. With functionalities of this generative AI technology, Opel drivers and passengers have access to a wide range of information from a long list of topics. Technology, developed by OpenAI, can return it to its users in a sophisticated and precise way.

For example, when looking for a restaurant in an unfamiliar city, ChatGPT 2 can make suggestions based on personal preferences and offers routing to the chosen destination. It can also answer questions such as which artist performed a certain song, who starred in a blockbuster movie – it can even create a quiz to increase the entertainment factor.

Thus, ChatGPT 2 is another example of how Opel is making top technologies accessible and affordable for a wide range of customers. This has also been recognised by the high-profile international AUTOBEST jury which awarded Opel and other Stellantis brands with the ‘SMARTBEST 2025’ for the introduction of ChatGPT 2 in their models. Award recognises pioneering solutions for onboard connectivity in vehicles.

Enhance convenience and security: Digital displays, multiple connectivity options

In addition to wireless connection of compatible smartphones to infotainment system, personal mobile device can also be charged wirelessly in centre console of new Opel Mokka. Furthermore, portable devices such as smartphones and tablets can also be connected via the USB-C socket in the centre console.

Elsewhere, the new high-definition 180-degree rear-view camera ensures excellent visibility when manoeuvring in the city. When reverse gear is engaged, the view behind the vehicle is displayed on the 10-inch infotainment monitor. In addition to visualisation, signal and warning sounds support manoeuvring in tight spaces.

In all of this, clarity and intuitive operation of assistance systems, infotainment and setting options such as air conditioning were focus of development of Opel Mokka cockpit. Engineers and designers have integrated some settings that could previously be controlled via buttons into the central colour touchscreen. And assistance systems, which are not essential for every situation, can be easily deactivated and switched on again at the touch of just one button. Entire cockpit design appears fresher and more desirable, as if from a higher vehicle class. For example, design of remaining switches for the electric parking brake and the selectable driving modes (on Opel Mokka Electric and automatic variants) comes from all-new Opel Grandland.

[1] Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

[2] This new service uses the power of generative artificial intelligence including the technologies of the SoundHound Chat AI platform. Version 3.5 of ChatGPT uses data dating back to January 2022 at the latest, and therefore has no knowledge of events and data after that date.

[3] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel and energy, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

Monday, 7 April 2025

Contract Extended: Florian Huettl to remain CEO of Opel and Vauxhall for Three More Years

Florian Huettl will remain CEO of Opel/Vauxhall. The supervisory board of Opel Automobile GmbH has extended the 48-year-old's contract by another three years. Florian Huettl has been at the helm of the Opel and Vauxhall brands since June 2022 and has also led Stellantis' activities in Germany since December 2024.

"Over the past three years at the helm of Opel/Vauxhall, Florian Huettl has demonstrated that he can consistently position the traditional brands for the future, even in challenging times. He is a proven industry expert with outstanding leadership skills and experience in the international market environment. We are convinced that Florian will successfully shape the further development of Opel, Vauxhall and the German Stellantis organisation," said Xavier Chéreau, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Opel Automobile GmbH and Chief Human Resources, ESG, ICT & Heritage Officer.

Friday, 4 April 2025

All-New Opel Grandland with Intelli-Air: Allergy Sufferers can Breathe Freely

  • GRAND Air: Highly efficient air quality system with automatic air exchange
  • Effective against hay fever: Powerful activated carbon filters stop unwanted particles
  • Correct behaviour: Tips for what to do when pollen levels are high

All-new Opel Grandland is not just good – it’s GRAND!” The top-of-the-line SUV delivers precisely what the international #GOGRAND campaign promises. This applies to state-of-the-art technologies as well as comfort and safety. This is particularly important for allergy sufferers most of the year and especially in the coming months: clean air in the interior so occupants can breathe freely and always have a clear view without tears in their eyes. This is ensured by the state-of-the-art Intelli-Air ‘Clean Cabin’ air quality system, which is available for all-new Opel Grandland.

Advantages of the interior air quality created by ‘Clean Cabin’ are manifold:

  • It contributes significantly to the well-being of the driver and passengers.
  • Effective cleaning mechanisms prevent annoying itching of the eyes and nose of allergy sufferers and enable all passengers to breathe freely.
  • This increases the safety of all road users.

Intelligent and highly effective: Keeping an eye on interior air quality with Intelli-Air

In the ‘Golden Steering Wheel 2024’ 1 winning Opel Grandland an intelligent, particularly effective air quality system called Intelli-Air is optionally available. It combines highly effective air and particulate filters with an air quality monitoring system. It continuously controls the state of the interior air, initiating an automatic exchange when the air becomes stale. The air quality is controlled by the position of the recirculation vent. When the exterior air quality is poor, the car’s air quality sensor (AQS) closes the vent so that no pollutants can enter the car’s interior. However, if the interior air is stale or tainted, e.g. through smoking or dust on clothing, the vent opens to supply the passengers with fresher air.

Thanks to Intelli-Air, the interior air of all-new Opel Grandland remains as clean as possible. The passengers can even see this for themselves: the system informs them of the air quality via the large colour touchscreen. It displays a car-shaped emoji that is based on the international AQI (Air Quality Index). The colour of the emoji changes according to the standard of the air in the interior. The standard of the air in the passenger compartment is monitored by a PM 2.5 sensor that can detect particulates up to 2.5 micrometre in size.

Doubling up: Active carbon combination filters gases and odours

Intelli-Air ensures good air quality standards in all-new Grandland in combination with Opel original particulate and activated carbon combination filters, that are also available in many other Opel models. These consist of two layers and can therefore not only keep particles out the interior, but also filter out odours and gases such as ozone. Best of all, pollen is almost 100 per cent eliminated.

The quality of the filters meets the highest standards. The filter material is water-repellent, which prevents it from freezing in winter or becoming home to bacteria. Despite the high filter performance, good air permeability is ensured. The filter should be changed once every 12 months to ensure clean interior air all year round. A filter management system informs the driver when an exchange is necessary.

Ideal behaviour during pollen season


Everyone can play a part in protecting themselves from a hay fever attack while driving. With high pollen concentration, you should only drive a car with the windows closed and let Intelli-Air and the filters take care of the rest. This also benefits road safety – if drivers have to sneeze more often, the risk of accidents increases. In downtown traffic, for example, a car can travel 20 metres in the time it takes to sneeze; at 100 km/h the driver might not have their eyes on the road for more than 50 metres. It is best to get advice beforehand about the current pollen forecast, for example, from the local weather service.

In addition, motorists should refrain from medication, because the so-called antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Clothes should be taken off in the bathroom, not in the bedroom, and hair washed in the evening so that pollen does not get on the pillow. A rinse with sodium chloride in the morning and evening calms an irritated nose and a damp cloth over the eyes soothes the itching. Furthermore, pollen protection and fine dust grids on windows offer an additional barrier and help keep indoor air clean.

[1] AUTO BILD edition 46/2024 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2024, category ‘Best car under €50,000’.

Wednesday, 2 April 2025

Eye-catching and Practical: New Opel Vivaro Electric Sportive

  • Stylish: With sporty stickers, 17-inch alloys and characteristic design elements
  • Standard: Numerous packages with technology and comfort features
  • Locally emissions-free: 100 kW electric motor, 75 kWh battery, up to 352 km range (WLTP1)
  • Workhorse: Up to one tonne payload and 5.8 m3 loading volume
  • Available to order: Opel Vivaro Electric Sportive panel van from €48,500, Vivaro Electric Sportive double cab from €51,500 (RRP excl. VAT in Germany)
Opel Vivaro Electric is not only an all-rounder that fits almost every application profile, it is also the perfect business card for companies – even more so as the stylish new Opel Vivaro Electric Sportive, which can be ordered now. With its characteristic design details, it becomes an eye-catcher on every work trip. In addition, the 4.98 metre long and around 1.90 metre high van, which is therefore fully suitable for underground parking, offers numerous packages with many technology and comfort features as standard in this special edition. Opel Vivaro Electric Sportive is equipped with a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor and 75 kWh battery and can be ordered as a panel van for €48,500 and as a double cab from €51,500 (all prices RRP excl. VAT in Germany).

Van becomes a design statement: ‘Sporty’ styling details

From the outside, the ‘Sportive’ attracts attention with its characteristic vehicle stickers. The sporty black stripes with yellow highlight on the bonnet extends to the Opel Vizor brand face. There, standard LED headlights and LED daytime running lights ensure the best visibility. Bumpers, door handles and the sliding door rail trim are painted in the body colour, the side mouldings and the exterior mirror caps are black. The pattern, which runs along the sides to the rear wheel arches, reflects the sporty striped design of the bonnet. The 17-inch alloys of Opel Vivaro Electric Sportive underline the high-quality look. In the interior both the dashboard and the door panels are held in black.

Dynamic Surround View and navigation system: Numerous packages as standard

Numerous additional packages that are already included as standard represent another advantage for Vivaro Electric Sportive drivers. With many technical and comfort details, they make daily commutes easier, safer and more relaxed.

‘Sight & Light’ package with fog lights and electrically adjustable, heated and folding exterior mirrors not only increases safety, but also practical use with a 12-volt socket in the glove compartment and on the D-pillar on the driver's side. The ‘Sportive’ comes with a highlight in the ‘Dynamic Surround View’ package with the digital rearview mirror. The system consists of two cameras, one above the rear doors and the other under the passenger side mirror. The images captured by the cameras are displayed on the digital screen. While driving, the driver can see the area behind the rear of the Vivaro. When the indicator is activated, the driver can also see the normally lateral blind spot on the passenger side. Compared to conventional mirrors, the system offers a better, more comprehensive overview.

Entire cockpit is designed to be highly ergonomic. With the ‘Connect Nav’ package, Vivaro Electric Sportive drivers have the high-quality IVI high audio system. Routes can be planned using the navigation system with a 10-inch touchscreen. In addition, the digital, colour 10-inch driver information display provides all important information. Features included in the ‘Comfort’ package such as the two-zone automatic climate control, the inductive charging cradle for wirelessly charging compatible smartphones, the keyless system and the heated leather steering wheel also offer car-level comfort. The ‘Winter’ package with seat heating for all seats in the front row also increases the feel-good factor on cold days.

In the panel van and double cab, the height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and armrest makes the journey even more relaxing. FlexCargo double passenger seat, which is also standard in the ‘Sportive’ panel van, expands the loading space with its through-loading function. And the rear compartment itself has enhanced LED lighting.

No compromises: One tonne payload and 352 kilometres range 

Opel Vivaro Electric Sportive is not only well equipped and stylish – it is also locally emissions-free. With its 75 kWh battery, it enables ranges of up to 352 kilometres between charging stops (WLTP 1). And if the electric transporter needs additional energy, it can be quickly charged with alternating current using the standard three-phase 11 kW onboard charger. At a 100 kW direct current fast charging station, a “break stop” of around 45 minutes is necessary to charge to 80 percent of the battery capacity. With all of this, the commercial vehicle all-rounder makes no compromises as a load carrier: Opel Vivaro Electric panel van offers up to 5.8 cubic meters of loading volume and up to one tonne of payload.

[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.

Wednesday, 26 March 2025

Available to Order Now: Opel Corsa Electric with Even More Range

  • More range, same price: Opel Corsa Electric YES with up to 429 kilometres of locally emissions-free range (WLTP 1) from €32,485 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany)
  • Even more efficient: Drive up to 24 kilometres further thanks to improved battery cell chemistry and optimised powertrain
  • Electric All In 2: Opel makes the switch to electric mobility easy
Opel is now making electric mobility even more attractive and suitable for everyday use with the Corsa Electric. From now on, occupants of the electric small car bestseller with the Blitz can cover even longer distances between charging stops. Opel Corsa Electric with a 51 kWh battery and an output of 115 kW (156 hp) now enables a locally emissions-free range of up to 429 kilometres – around 6 per cent or up to 24 kilometres more than before.

Best of all, customers can enjoy the extended range without facing any additional costs. For example, the special edition Opel Corsa Electric YES is available from €32,485 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). A win-win situation for all Corsa Electric buyers: More style, more range, increased everyday usability – and all this for the same price as before. And combined with ’Electric All In’2 Opel is making electric mobility even easier and more affordable.

429-kilometre range (WLTP 1): Opel Corsa Electric offers even more everyday benefits

Small, practical and durable: With space for up to five people in compact dimensions, the Corsa Electric is a real everyday hero and protects the environment and resources with its locally emissions-free drivetrain. It is not for nothing that the jury of the trade magazine electricar named it ‘Best in Class City Vehicle’ in their 2025 awards list.


With the electric range, which has now been increased to up to 429 kilometres, the nimble electric car is even more attractive both in everyday life and for longer trips. Increase in range was made possible by continuous development of nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery. In addition, drive system is now even more efficient. For example, Opel Corsa Electric now consumes only 14.2 kWh of electricity per 100 kilometres. And when the electric small car bestseller needs charging, it recharges to up to 80 percent in under 30 minutes at a 100 kW DC fast-charging station.

Opel Corsa Electric not only shines with high efficiency and practicality, it is also extremely stylish – especially as an Opel Corsa Electric YES special edition. With the three new colours Eukalyptus Green, Kobalt Blue and Kiss Red, it stands out from the crowd and is an unmistakable eyecatcher. Numerous features from the up-level GS trim line are included as standard.

Simple, affordable, customer-friendly: Boost for e-mobility with Electric All-In 2

Another reason that should make Opel Corsa Electric even more attractive is that the brand with the Blitz is making electric mobility even easier and more affordable for customers. Customers who opt for a battery-electric car like Opel Corsa Electric now receive numerous services at the same time. Electric All In 2 is the name of the formula that makes the transition to electric mobility easy and pleasant. Services such as an eProWallbox Move for fast charging at home, Opel Connect PLUS package 4 and eight years of mobile charging and breakdown assistance5 as well as a battery warranty are included.

[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.

[2] Offer for private customers when purchasing a fully electric passenger car from participating Opel partners by June 30, 2025.

[3] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

[4] Connect PLUS services are available for no additional charge for 6 months after the start of the warranty. After this period, the services will be subject to a charge.

[5] Eight years of roadside and mobile charging assistance; mobile charging assistance up to three times a year.

Monday, 24 March 2025

Marijan Griebel takes podium in Opel Corsa Rally4

  • Third place for the former Opel works junior at the opening round of the Stellantis Rally Cup France, held as part of the Rallye du Touquet in France.


Two-time European junior champion and four-time German champion Marijan Griebel made a remarkable comeback in the Opel Corsa Rally4 at the opening round of the French Rally Championship, held as part of the Rallye du Touquet. At the wheel of the Opel Corsa Rally4, the 35-year-old German, together with co-driver Ella Kremer (25), who replaced his previous co-driver Tobias Braun in the hot seat this season, finished third in the Stellantis Rally Cup France in a field of around 20 Peugeot 208 Rally4.

“The rally with its flowing, fast and spectator-lined special stages was just as great as the service park right on the seafront in Le Touquet,” enthused Griebel about the traditional event around 70 kilometers south of Calais on the French Channel coast. The environment was not completely new for the former Opel factory junior: In the 2021 season, Griebel had made a test appearance at the Rallye du Touquet in the then brand-new Opel Corsa Rally Electric as a course car.

Nevertheless, the rally was something special for Griebel/Kremer: “Despite a five-month break from rallying and two years without competing in the Rally4, it worked great again from the first meter, as did the collaboration with Ella. Various special aspects of the rally, such as nominating the maximum of ten tires in the morning and the language barrier, were challenging at times, but we were able to overcome them all. From day one, Ella and I fought for the top positions and after an intense fight that went literally down to the wire, we finally made it onto the podium. This rally in the Opel Corsa Rally4 was extremely fun and a great exercise for the rest of the year. And the fact that we won by a clear margin in the over-30 category, for which we were eligible for prize money, was also very gratifying...”

Thursday, 20 March 2025

50 years ago: Opel Genève Concept Sports Car Unveiled

  • Bold, pure, unique: Concept car takes centre stage at the 1975 Geneva Motor Show
  • Too good to be true: Breathtaking sports car study remains a dream
  • Modern visionary: Opel Experimental paves way for production models such as new Opel Grandland 
Bold, pure, visionary: This is how Opel Experimental brand study presented itself to the public almost two years ago. Innovative concept vehicles that inspire have a long tradition at Opel. As early as 1975 – exactly 50 years ago – Opel showed its vision of a sports car study that is beguiling in every respect at the Geneva Motor Show. At the time, the Opel Genève became one of the main attractions at the Swiss trade fair with its distinctly flat silhouette. With the Genève, Opel's design department once again demonstrated its visionary skills, which it had already established ten years earlier with the Experimental GT. While this was quickly transferred to series production and many of the elements of the Opel Experimental are brought to life in all-new Opel Grandland, Opel Genève remained a dream that many sports car enthusiasts celebrate to this day.

Slim study: Harmonious Genève design awakens emotions

Opel knew how to stage Genève at 1975 Geneva Motor Show. And rightly so, because harmonious show car exuded pure sportiness with its slim shape, powerful front and elegantly tapering downwards roofline. A truly ‘golden’ appearance, after all, the study was painted in exactly this colour. Automobil Revue wrote at time: "Light-footed, elegant coupé rotates on an elevated turntable, thus serving as an eye-catcher for visitors. (…) Font and rear are tapered with integrated bumpers. All window surfaces, including side ones, are strongly curved." This was made possible by fact that‘Opel Advanced Design Team’ around Erhard Schnell formed Opel Genève out of fiberglass and was thus able to give it a styling that subsequently attracted admiring glances not only at Motor Show.

Despite its popularity, two-seater with its pop-up headlights typical of Opel concept cars at the time, would never go into series production. To understand this decision, however, it is necessary to look back to beginning of 1970s, because Opel Genève was originally planned as GT-W. Under this working title, the coupé with its incomparable proportions was designed in Rüsselsheim in 1972. Small and flat mid-engined two-seater was to be powered by a two-rotor rotary ‘Wankel’ engine, which is why the original model designation was GT-W. 

But as a result of oil crisis, rotary piston engine project was stopped in 1974. Nevertheless, beautiful Opel GT-W was allowed to live on – albeit modified and under the new name Opel Genève, chosen to match its first public appearance.

In addition, another Opel study caused a sensation in same year: Opel had decided to unveil the futuristic GT2 at 1975 IAA. This was designed in much greater detail, with functioning sliding doors, a fully designed interior and a functional drive train, and was intended to provide a vivid glimpse into future Opel developments.

While GT2 was donated to Deutsches Museum in Munich in May 1978, Genève remained on display in the Opel design department for many years. It was repainted in 1977 and has dazzled in a bright orange since then. Concept car is now one of  highlights of Opel Classic Collection.

When visionary dreams come true: Groundbreaking Opel Experimental

Almost 50 years after the Genève, the Opel Experimental shows how visions of the future can actually become reality. The study, which was presented for the first time at the IAA Mobility in 2023, has since provided clear guidance on the brand's further developments and future mobility. This can be characterised by three core concepts:

  • Detox: Opel Experimental has a bold and pure design with a clear focus on the essentials.
  • Modern German: It inspires with its impressive proportions, intelligent solutions, highly efficient use of space and state-of-the-art lighting technology, including the first illuminated Opel Blitz.
  • Greenovation: It is fully electric and reduces the carbon footprint.

All this is ‘German Energy’, which makes every model with the Blitz unmistakably an Opel. And the result of this ‘German Energy’, visible as the latest production model, is the new Opel Grandland, designed and developed in Rüsselheim and built in Eisenach. Top-of-the-line SUV ‘made in Germany’ brings the spirit of the brand study to life and introduces many features into series production. This makes the ‘Golden Steering Wheel 2024’[1] winning Grandland a prime example of how the designers and engineers at Opel turn forward-looking automotive dreams into reality in a short time – and what an important part pioneering studies such as the Opel Experimental play in this.

[1] AUTO BILD edition 46/2024 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2024, category ‘Best car under €50,000’.

Wednesday, 12 March 2025

Premiere: Opel presents new Vivaro HYDROGEN at the “Showcase Day: Hydrogen Mobility” in Munich

  • New Vivaro HYDROGEN: For the first time with Opel Vizor and class-leading assistance systems
  • Hydrogen advantages: Long range, locally emission-free operation, short refueling stops, independence from the electricity and charging grid
  • 40 percent cheaper than its predecessor: New Vivaro HYDROGEN available to order soon, starting at €71,500 (RRP excl. VAT)
  • Advancing hydrogen mobility: Conference at the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs with expert contributions and vehicle exhibition

How is hydrogen mobility developing? Which successful pilot projects and vehicles are paving the way to a profitable hydrogen future? And how can an efficient hydrogen infrastructure be created? These and other topics were the focus of yesterday's "Showcase Day: Hydrogen Mobility" in Munich . Dr. Lars Peter Thiesen, Head of Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Introduction Strategy, spoke on behalf of Opel and Stellantis about "Light Commercial Vehicles with Hydrogen" at the symposium. The event was under the patronage of State Minister Hubert Aiwanger and was opened by State Secretary Tobias Gotthardt in the Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy. Opel also presented the new Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN for the first time there . The hydrogen vehicle with fuel cell combines all the advantages of locally emission-free technology with the stylish design of the latest Vivaro generation with Opel Vizor and class-leading assistance systems.

In his speech, Gotthardt emphasized the importance of hydrogen: "With hydrogen, we are advancing the energy transition without driving industry into the ground. So far, one side has faced uncertainty about whether it will find buyers for its green hydrogen, while the other side needs a secure and comprehensive infrastructure to replace fossil fuels with hydrogen. Our hydrogen strategy addresses precisely these issues. We see advantages for hydrogen over other technologies, especially in freight and passenger transport."

Opel and Stellantis underscore this with the appropriate vehicles and drivetrains: "We at Opel and Stellantis were the first manufacturers to bring light commercial vehicles with hydrogen fuel cell propulsion to the road. Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN now offers all the advantages of the previous generation plus a fresh look – all at significantly reduced prices for customers," says Thiesen. The starting price for the new Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN, which will soon be available to order, is around €71,500 (RRP excl. VAT) – around 40 percent lower than before.

Development goal: Independent, locally emission-free mobility without compromise

Following the launch of the latest Opel Vivaro generation last year, the all-round commercial vehicle is now, for the first time, also enriching the portfolio as a hydrogen vehicle with a fuel cell. The advantages of this technology are manifold: With its combination of hydrogen fuel cell drive and plug-in battery, Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN can travel more than 400 kilometers on a full tank (according to WLTP 1). Compared to battery-electric drives, colder outside temperatures have hardly any impact on the range. Refueling with hydrogen takes just a few minutes. And thanks to the space-saving, compact design of the drive components, customers do not have to compromise on loading capacity. Like its model brothers, the hydrogen transporter offers up to 6.1 cubic meters of loading volume and a one-ton payload.

This makes it the ideal locally emission-free commercial vehicle option for anyone who uses their fleets intensively or requires a long range, and therefore cannot switch to battery-electric models due to their operating model. "For example, service technicians who take their vehicle home in the evening but cannot charge it there, as well as companies that don't have the necessary connection power from the electrical grid to charge large fleets, need the classic filling station model," explains Thiesen. "This is precisely where a key advantage of our hydrogen vehicles such as Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN and Movano HYDROGEN lies : They make users independent of the electricity and charging grid."

Perspective: Development of an economical hydrogen filling station network

The significant reduction in vehicle prices was made possible by the fact that, with the transition to the new generation, the fuel cell vans are now also being produced at the corresponding Stellantis plants. Making the vehicles more economical for customers through the further development of hydrogen technology and series production is just one of Opel and Stellantis' goals in advancing the locally emission-free mobility alternative. "To date, Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN vehicles have already covered a total of more than two million kilometers. This demonstrates our experience with this technology and that we offer the right solutions with our products," says Thiesen.

The same requirements also apply to the Europe-wide development of an attractive yet efficient refueling station infrastructure – another aspect of the "Showcase Day: Hydrogen Mobility." For example, the EU is pushing for the expansion of the public hydrogen refueling station network with the "Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation" (AFIR), which is binding for all member states. It stipulates the construction of hydrogen stations every 200 kilometers along major highways and at intersections. From today's approximately 150 public 700 bar refueling stations, the number is expected to grow to at least 500 by 2030. However, these stations must also be economically viable in the long term, meaning that enough hydrogen-powered vehicles must use a refueling station every day. This is the only way to ensure the sustainable, broad-based market success of fuel cell vehicles.

"To achieve this, it makes sense to establish so-called hydrogen ecosystems in addition to basic coverage and to increasingly establish filling stations at these locations – for example, around large cities with many hydrogen consumers," Thiesen continues. "Implementing this task cannot be accomplished overnight, but with our know-how, our drive solutions, and our vehicles at Opel and Stellantis, we are continuously driving the development of hydrogen mobility forward as a pioneer, together with the other stakeholders involved in this process."

[1] The stated range was determined using the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, road conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning, and thermal preconditioning.

Saturday, 8 March 2025

Diversity Counts: How Opel models meet Women's Demands

  • Women Perspective Panel: Female perspectives accompany the development process of new Opel vehicles
  • Visible results: All-New Opel Grandland makes requirements such as a pleasant driving behaviour, top ergonomics and good all-round visibility become real
  • International Women's Day on March 8: Diversity and equality have a long tradition at Opel

March 8 is International Women's Day. However, diversity, inclusion and equality are not only a top priority at Opel on this annual day of celebration. Instead these principles are a fundamental part of the corporate culture. The women's perspective always plays a key role in the development of new models – for the benefit of all drivers and passengers as well as for the success of the brand. This is also demonstrated by all-new Opel Grandland.

Women Perspective Panel at Opel: It is all about perspective

Women sometimes have different expectations of cars than men. In order to fulfil these expectations, the Women Perspective Panels (WPPs) have been in place for many years. For each vehicle, a dedicated women's team accompanies the vehicle development process which is an integral part at Opel.

“In the Women Perspective Panel, we bring together female colleagues reflecting many perspectives and life experiences. These are women of different ages and physiques as well as from a wide range of professions at Opel. This team is to provide impetus for the new Opel model to be developed based on their own personal experience,” said Nina Thiele, President Women of Stellantis Germany.

The concept of the Women Perspective Panels has been established for years in all new models. Within various events such as workshops, benchmark and target group analyses as well as test drives, the women have the opportunity to contribute their voices throughout the development process, to change perspectives, to accompany internal steps and follow the implementation of their suggestions.

Design, functionality and quality: Comprehensive WPP support

Thus, in the case of the new Opel Grandland the WPP influenced from the very beginning how the top-of-the-line SUV should be rolled out to customers at market launch. First, the women were able to test various competitor models and thus gain valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses – all with the aim of identifying potential improvements in the development of all-new Opel Grandland. The feedback from WPP members on design drafts for the future Opel Grandland was also requested to collect further aesthetic and functional demands.

A special ergonomics and storage workshop then focussed on questions such as: ‘What do we really need?’, ‘How can we make optimal use of the storage space?’ and ‘How can even small people easily reach all the storage compartments?’ The results of the workshop were also directly incorporated into further development. Even a WPP report was created with detailed key aspects, the so-called Key Performance Index. “This KPI was shared with various teams involved in the vehicle development process and could be compared with the results again and again throughout the entire project period,” emphasised Nina Thiele.

Always involved: WPP contributes to top result of all-new Opel Grandland

For all-new Opel Grandland, the central demands of the Women Perspective Panel taken from this workshop were:

  • When it comes to interior quality, high-quality materials and clean finish are crucial.
  • Camera systems with cleaning functions contribute to improved all-round visibility.
  • Ergonomics: People of all heights and physiques should feel comfortable in the car.
  • Storage options: In the interior, practical and easily accessible storage compartments, especially in the centre console, are important. The boot must be easily accessible and flexible to use via a flat loading sill.
  • Driving characteristics: Smooth driving behaviour provides a good, safe driving experience with a high level of comfort.
  • Light signature: In addition, illuminated brand emblems such as the Opel Blitz are a real eye-catcher.

In order to be able to assess the development progress achieved, the WPP members were able to drive prototypes again and again during the process and give their feedback. The result: “Mission accomplished: Thanks to our input, we were able to bring many aspects to all-new Opel Grandland that are important not only for women, but also for all drivers. These include the pleasant feeling of space in all seats as well as the good steering wheel positioning, the high-quality interior and a great driving experience. The effective rear ventilation including optional seat heating also contributes to the feel-good ambience in all-new Opel Grandland,” summarises Nina Thiele.


In this way, the Women Perspective Panel has also played a decisive role in ensuring that the new Opel Grandland has impressed both experts and customers since its premiere and has been awarded prestigious titles such as the ‘2024 Golden Steering Wheel’1. The Women Perspective Panel and all- new Grandland are perfect examples of how team spirit works at Opel and how a wide variety of perspectives contribute to the success of new models – and this every day.

[1] AUTO BILD edition 46/2024 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2024, category ‘Best car under 50,000 euros’.

Friday, 7 March 2025

Opel rocks February with +90.6% and doubles its total market share in Austria

  • + 90.6 percent 1 increase in the overall market 2 in February 2025
  • +95.7 percent 1 increase in passenger cars
  • +73 percent 1 increase in commercial vehicles
  • Doubling of the total market share 2 to 3.6 percent 1

Opel rocked the Austrian automobile market again in February. The increase in new registrations on the Austrian market as a whole 2 is +90.6 percent 1 compared to the same month last year. 791 new Opels, of which 161 were light commercial vehicles (+73 percent 1) and 630 passenger cars (+95.7 percent 1) found satisfied customers in February.

The total market share was simply doubled: to 3.6 percent 1 (+1.8 percentage points)

Judith Porstner, Managing Director of Opel Austria, said: "Opel is back and I'm very happy about that. We saw a declining market in February, but Opel is clearly bucking the trend, both with cars and commercial vehicles. We are also seeing more demand from companies that want to renew their vehicle fleets. That is a good sign and makes us positive for the coming months. With the new Opel Grandland, Opel Mokka and Opel Frontera models, as well as the Opel Corsa, the Opel Astra and our three commercial vehicles, we are a full-range supplier and can offer the right vehicles and engines for all requirements. If desired, we can also offer a completely electrified fleet."

[1] Note: Source: Statistics Austria. The sales figures and market shares given are estimated data.

[2] Total market = passenger cars + light commercial vehicles

[3] The values ​​of a vehicle depend not only on the efficient use of fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.

Wednesday, 26 February 2025

Opel Confirms Presence at IAA Mobility 2025

  • Opel Blitz in Munich: One of the largest mobility events in the world to take place from September 9 to 14
  • Opel CEO Florian Huettl: “Perfect platform to showcase our electrified and innovations models.”
  • Strong Opel tradition at IAA: 60 years since German brand shows first European design study

German carmaker Opel has officially confirmed its participation at IAA Mobility 2025. Regarded as one of largest mobility events in world, IAA Mobility 2025 will take place in Munich from September 9 to 14. Two years ago, brand with the Blitz grabbed headlines when it unveiled stunning Opel Experimental and thus gave a clear outlook on future of brand.

“IAA Mobility 2025 provides us with perfect platform to showcase new emotional and electrifying Opel models. We already offer a battery-electric version of each model in our line-up. Furthermore, we offer additional exciting locally emissions-free solutions such as hydrogen fuel-cell drive for our Vivaro and Movano light commercial vehicles. Obviously, we have a long tradition at IAA. We were first European carmaker to present a concept car exactly 60 years ago – so stay tuned,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

At IAA Mobility 2023, Opel presented groundbreaking Opel Experimental to world – and concept car from Rüsselsheim design centre was a hit with media and public alike. Many elements first shown in Opel Experimental have since been introduced in all-new Opel Grandland. New 3D Vizor integrates Opel Blitz, illuminated for first time, and innovative ‘Edge Light’ technology. At same time, all-new Opel Grandland also takes up ‘Opel Compass’ design of Opel Experimental study – vertical crease and horizontal Vizor converge with ‘electrified’ Opel Blitz emblem in centre. In addition, rear view reveals another premiere: all-new Grandland is first Opel production model to integrate the illuminated OPEL lettering inspired by Experimental into centre of its compass light signature.

Monday, 24 February 2025

DVN Award 2025 for IntelliLux HD Light in All-New Opel Grandland

  • ‘Best Front Lamps 2025’: Adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux HD light with more than 50,000 elements
  • Expert vote: Driving Vision News community and interested parties honour pioneering lighting innovations with DVN Award
  • Awards ceremony: Philipp Roeckl, Global Lead Complex Lighting at Stellantis, accepts award in Munich


All-new Opel Grandland sets standards with top technologies such as the industry-leading IntelliLux HD light. This is also confirmed by the expert audience of Driving Vision News. All-new Opel Grandland has now been honoured with the prestigious DVN Award 2025 in the ‘Best Front Lamps’ category of the online vote. Philipp Roeckl, Global Lead Complex Lighting at Stellantis, accepted the award on behalf of Opel at the current DVN symposium in Munich.

 Philipp Roeckl with DVN Award 2025 for all-new Opel Grandland

‘With the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux HD light, we have developed a pioneering system for the new Opel Grandland. For the first time, the headlights have more than 50,000 individual elements, enabling high-resolution light distribution that is always appropriate to the situation. This not only increases comfort for the driver, but also the safety of all road users. We are delighted that the DVN community has honoured this with the DVN Award 2025,’ said Philipp Roeckl at the awards ceremony.

Driving Vision News is a network of leading experts in the fields of lighting technology, driver assistance systems, lidar and vehicle interiors. In newsletters, reports and workshops, it regularly provides information on technological developments and innovations in this specialised field. At this year's DVN Awards, numerous lighting innovations were up for election in six categories.

More precise, sharper, better: IntelliLux HD light with over 50,000 elements

Opel Grandland’s ultra-modern IntelliLux HD light turns night into day for the driver and precisely illuminates the route and surroundings. Depending on the prevailing traffic situation, the camera detects road users in front and oncoming traffic and the IntelliLux HD light cuts them out even faster and more precisely than previous matrix light technologies. The ‘light tunnel’, i.e. the area left out by the light beam, is narrower than before, while the rest of the street and the surrounding area is better lit. In this way, the system delivers even brighter and more even light distribution without dazzling others.


Scientific studies prove the benefits for safety. Objects in front of the vehicle can be detected around 30 to 40 meters earlier at a speed of 80 km/h than with conventional halogen headlights. This allows the driver to react to the potential obstacle between one and two seconds earlier – valuable time to avoid an impending collision.

Next evolutionary stage: New functions and graphic animations

At the same time, all automatic IntelliLux functions, from city and country road light to cornering light and bad weather light, have been improved and taken to a new level. The light cone in front of the vehicle can be completely digitally adjusted using more than 50,000 pixels, so that it intuitively guides the driver's perspective along the road when cornering. In addition to the digital adjustment of the light cone, depending on the turning angle, an additional light module is activated on the corresponding side of the vehicle. It illuminates the side of the road even better and thus prevents “black holes” when cornering. In bad weather or fog mode, IntelliLux HD factors in the possible glare effect caused by rain-soaked streets and adjusts the light intensity accordingly in order to reduce this effect for oncoming traffic.

In addition, the high-resolution light technology not only protects the eyes of other road users, but also those of the Opel Grandland driver. The system recognises traffic signs appearing on the road and dims the LEDs so that the reflection of the signs does not glare the driver. And ‘tourist mode’ ensures that the IntelliLux HD light can use its full performance and all functions even when driving in countries with left-hand traffic.


Finally, the new animations in the form of graphic videos that are projected in front of the vehicle to greet and bid farewell to Grandland occupants provide a first impression of what lighting developments will be possible in the future.

Unique lighting design: 3D Vizor, illuminated Opel Blitz and Edge light technology

Above all, it is not only the innovative IntelliLux HD light which is setting standards. The new Opel Grandland also stands out at first glance with its unmistakable style – especially in the dark. The new light signature of the Opel brand face makes a decisive contribution to this: the new 3D Vizor integrates the Opel Blitz, illuminated for the first time, and the innovative “edge light” technology, which extends across the entire width of the vehicle, in one flowing element.

Wednesday, 12 February 2025

Long-Distance Champion: All-New Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid

  • Fully charged and refuelled: New top-of-line SUV covers 1,115 kilometres
  • ‘Electro’ SUV: In test, GS trim plug-in hybrid covers 380 kilometres locally emissions-free without recharging thanks to recuperation
  • Ideal for fleets and individuals: Drivetrain perfect for anyone who commutes fully electrically and wants to cover long distances in a particularly resource-efficient way

All-new Opel Grandland impresses with its attractive styling, groundbreaking technologies, clever solutions, lots of space and completely electrified range of drivetrains. ‘Golden Steering Wheel 2024’2 winner is available as fully electric Opel Grandland Electric, Opel Grandland Hybrid with 48-volt technology and powerful Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid. Team around Opel Grandland chief engineer Dirk Kaminski has now put the clever plug-in hybrid drive concept to test – with astonishing results that will impress company car and long-distance drivers.

“WLTP values 3 are clear: According to the official test cycle, our new Grandland Plug-in Hybrid offers a combined range of up to 897 kilometres, of which up to 87 kilometres are purely electric,” said Dirk Kaminski. “But we thought to ourselves: Let’s see what the car can really do. Our new top-of-the-range SUV will definitely break 1,000-kilometre mark with a full tank and a full charge. After all, Opel Grandland is 'made in Germany' through and through and rolls off assembly line in ultra-modern Eisenach factory. So we put it to test – under conditions that are worse than in official test cycle.”

From full to empty: 1,115 kilometres covered under adverse conditions

While WLTP values are determined at temperatures of around 23 degrees Celsius, all-new Grandland Plug-in Hybrid set off on a windy and rainy January morning at a fresh 11 degrees Celsius. And – appropriate for the season – on 19-inch winter tyres instead of summer tyres with lower rolling resistance and in the fully-equipped GS trim. Only requirement was: “SUV has a full tank and the 17.9 kWh battery is fully charged. Now we drive until the fuel tank and battery are empty.”

Plug-in hybrid completed typical commuter routes from Rhine-Main area around Rüsselsheim and Frankfurt to Rhine-Neckar area and back again. Routes included motorway stretches with free-flowing traffic, with stop-and-go traffic and rush-hour traffic, as well as country roads and city traffic including traffic light stops – a real-life test that reflects the true everyday requirements of many company car drivers.

Result or the distance that Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid, which delivers 143 kW (195 hp) system output and 350 Newton meters of maximum torque, achieved with just one tank filling and battery charge, exceeded the expectations of the Opel team: at an average speed of 80 km/h and a highly efficient overall average consumption of 4.6 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, SUV covered a total of 1,115 kilometres in four stages (interrupted by breaks to meet the legal requirements to adhere to driving times). Of this, the plug-in hybrid drove a little more than a third of the total distance, or more precisely 380 kilometres, purely battery-electric and therefore locally emissions-free.

Opel Grandland chief engineer - Dirk Kaminski 

“Fact that Grandland achieves such outstanding values under these circumstances – at the end of the test temperatures had dropped to just 4 degrees Celsius – has once again confirmed that we have created a car that is groundbreaking in every respect with a drive concept that is completely suitable for everyday use. Highly efficient combustion engine and the electric motor work in perfect harmony,” said Kaminski. “More than that: every time you decelerate, powertrain switches to electric operation. This is possible because the recuperated energy is used to power the car electrically meaning that long distances can be covered at low and medium speeds with no local emissions.”

‘Greenovation’ à la Opel: Resource-saving SUV and drive concept

All-new Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid therefore shines as the ideal choice for fully electric commuter routes as well as for long-distance company car and leisure drivers who want to be particularly resource-efficient and leave range anxiety behind. Not only the use of recycled materials and the absence of chrome show what Opel means by ‘Greenovation’ and sustainability in new top-of-line SUV. This is also impressively demonstrated by results of  test.

Numerous other qualities of completely new Opel Grandland make daily business trips as well as long journeys even more pleasant: ergonomic seats certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR) ensure relaxed driving pleasure. Patented Intelli-Seat ergonomic feature is standard on all front seats. And with technologies such as glare-free IntelliLux HD light, Intelli-HUD head-up display or illuminated, translucent Pixel Box, Opel Grandland drivers are perfectly equipped.

At the end of the test, one final question remains: What distance would all-new Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid be able to cover with a full tank and full battery under ideal test conditions – for example, in early summer? “Insights that we as a team have gained from the 1,115 kilometres we have now driven is: Under optimal conditions, even more would certainly be possible,” said Dirk Kaminski.

All-new Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid with 143 kW (195 hp) system output, 350 Nm of maximum torque and a top speed of 220 km/h can be ordered from prices starting at €40,150 (RRP including VAT in Germany).

[1] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

[2] AUTO BILD edition 46/2024 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2024, category ‘Best car under €50,000’.

[3] 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.