Order Books now Open: New Opel Mokka YES with Extra Slice of Style

• Character at first glance: YES special edition from €30,340 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany) with Koral Orange paint and orange accents in the interior
• Attractive YES advantages: Roof in carbon black, black 17-inch alloy wheels, wheel arches and elements in front and rear bumpers, reversing camera, six-way adjustable front seats, armrest in the centre console
• Wide range of drive options: Battery-electric, hybrid or with efficient combustion engine
• Real statements: Opel Mokka YES becomes an absolute eye-catcher next to the top variant Mokka GSE

The Opel Mokka stands out as an extravagant eye-catcher among compact SUVs. Now Opel is making the Mokka even more individual and distinctive. From now on, it is also available as a colourful Mokka YES special edition with attractive extras for prices starting at €30,340 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). After the success of the Opel Corsa YES, customers who want to stand out from the crowd even more can now also do so with their very special Opel Mokka. With this, Opel is adding further flavour to the Mokka range after already introducing the highly dynamic top-of-the-line Mokka GSE.

 “The Opel Mokka is a real eye-catcher in every variant. But we wanted to make the compact customer favourite even more varied. This is exactly what the new YES special edition stands for. At the same time, we are increasing the selection for all those who want to make a personal, extra-stylish statement with their vehicle. From now on, YES fans can choose between the Corsa, Germany's most popular small car, and the confidently designed Mokka,” said Patrick Dinger, Head of Opel Germany.

Like its Corsa counterpart, the new Opel Mokka YES also relies on strong colours and attractive series extras. The special edition is recognisable at first glance thanks to the unusual Koral Orange paint finish. The interior design is specially matched to the unmistakable colour. The decors around the instrument panel, the seat inserts as well as the stitching in seats and doors also shine in radiant orange. On the outside, the standard black 17-inch alloy wheels, the black roof and the matching lower front, side and rear areas, as well as the optional black bonnet, provide a characteristic contrast and an independent appearance. Those who prefer to set accents with a different paint finish, can alternatively choose from the colour palette of the GS line with a matching interior.

Comfort in the Opel Mokka YES is increased by standard additional features such as the six-way adjustable front seats and the armrest between driver and front passenger. All the necessary information is provided by the 10-inch driver information display and the 10-inch multimedia infotainment system’s colour touchscreen. Smartphones can be connected wirelessly via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Parking and manoeuvring in the city is made easier by the reversing camera, which is also standard. Privacy and protection from sunlight in the rear are provided by the dark-tinted rear windows.

In addition, various packages are on offer that further enhance the new Opel Mokka YES. While the tech packages include features such as front parking assist or adaptive cruise control, the infotainment package has integrated navigation with over-the-air updates, natural voice recognition and wireless charger. The comfort package offers, among other things, a double load floor and the winter package features heated front seats and steering wheel.

Opel Mokka YES customers can choose from three drivetrains. The locally emissions-free Opel Mokka Electric YES offers 115 kW (156 hp) and the hybrid version comes with 107 kW (145 hp) and electrified six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Alternatively, a classic 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 100 kW (136 hp) is also available.

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

One Million Mark Cracked: Current Opel Corsa an Absolute Bestseller

• Customers’ favourite: Opel Corsa top-selling small car in Germany four times in a row
• Europe-wide success: Current Opel/Vauxhall Corsa also tops registrations in the UK and Greece
• Recipe for success: Flexible, agile, ultra-modern and with a wide range of drive systems from battery-electric and hybrid to efficient combustion engines

Opel Corsa continues to go from strength to strength. Opel's small car bestseller is a perennial favourite which is loved by customers and experts alike. Now Opel and the Corsa are celebrating the next major milestone: Since the launch of the current generation F in 2019, more than one million Corsa have left the production halls at the Zaragoza plant in Spain and made their way to customers. And demand also increased in the first quarter of 2025: the number of new registrations in Europe (E29) rose by 18 per cent compared to the previous quarter. Since the premiere of the first Opel Corsa in 1982, around 15 million units have been sold worldwide.

“Our Corsa is an absolute bestseller. One million Corsa of the current generation show that customers really love our small car. With its fresh design, affordable top technologies and high flexibility packed in compact dimensions, it appeals to the most diverse groups of customers. This unique combination makes it a fundamental guarantee for success in our portfolio,” said Florian Huettl, CEO Opel & Vauxhall and Managing Director Stellantis Germany.

Its great success is also reflected in other figures: According to registration statistics from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), the current Corsa has been Germany's best-selling small car in each of the past four years. It was also the top-selling car in its segment in the UK for three years in a row (2021 to 2023). In these two important markets, the Corsa once again led the B segment in the first quarter of 2025. From January to March 2025, the popular small car also made it into the top three in its segment in further countries such as Croatia, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovenia. And in Greece, the Corsa was even the best-selling passenger car in the overall market in 2023. Numerous awards from public and experts such as the ‘Best in Class’ Award 2025 for the Opel Corsa Electric as ‘Best Electric City Vehicle’ also pave its way.

Formula for success: Continuous development of flexible small car

There are multiple reasons for the ongoing success: The current Opel Corsa generation impresses with its characteristic design including the Opel Vizor front, has space for up to five people and offers affordable top technologies such as the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux Matrix light making journeys relaxing and safe. Customers also have an extremely wide selection of drive options, ranging from two battery-electric variants to modern hybrids with 48-volt technology and efficient combustion engines. Thus, Opel Corsa offers the right drivetrain for almost every usage profile and need.

Furthermore, Opel is continuously developing its small car, making it even more attractive and suitable for everyday use for customers. Take Opel Corsa Electric, for example: With its 51 kWh battery and an output of 115 kW (156 hp) it now enables a locally emissions-free range of up to 429 kilometres (WLTP 2) – around 6% or up to 24 kilometres more than before. Best of all, customers can enjoy the extended range without facing any additional costs. And as special edition Opel Corsa YES the small car bestseller becomes an extremely colourful head-turner which is also available with battery-electric drive. All of this makes the latest Opel Corsa generation a firm favourite with the customers which will continue its success story in the future.

[1] 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.

[2] 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 Electric Wins “Best in Class” Award 2025

• “Best electric city vehicle”: electricar magazine awards Opel Corsa Electric
• Winner: Opel Corsa combines emotional appearance with top technologies and high utility value
• Small car bestseller: at the top of its segment for more than three years in a row

Opel Corsa Electric inspires customers as much as experts. The latest proof is the "Best in Class" award 2025 from electricar in cooperation with the Institute for New Mobility. The jury of the trade magazine has chosen Opel's current best-selling small car as the winner in the "Best Electric City Vehicle" category. First, the committee, made up of personalities from business, science and the media, evaluated all the proposals received and identified five finalists per category. In the second step, the Corsa Electric emerged as the winner in the electric city vehicle category. Opel Germany brand boss Patrick Dinger accepted the award from electricar editor-in-chief Armin Grasmuck at the weekend.

"The 'Best in Class' award means that we as an automobile manufacturer have done something crucial right: developing a product with the Opel Corsa Electric that is well received by experts and customers alike. A product that is successful and points the way to future-proof, resource-saving mobility. Many thanks to the electricar jury and to all Opel partners who arouse enthusiasm for the Corsa on site every day," said Patrick Dinger at the awards ceremony at the Hockenheimring.

There are many reasons for the enduring success of the Opel Corsa Electric: It scores points with its characteristic design including the Opel Vizor brand face, space for five people, and top technologies such as the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux Matrix light, which make every journey more relaxed and safer. In addition, there is locally emission-free driving fun in two versions: Customers can choose from two battery-electric power levels with Opel Corsa Electric. With the 115 kW (156 hp) drive and 51 kWh battery, up to 405 kilometers (according to WLTP 2) can be covered without stopping to charge, while with 100 kW (136 hp) and 50 kWh battery, up to 357 kilometers (WLTP 2) are possible before the journey can continue after a short "break" - for example, just under 30 minutes of charging at a 100 kW direct current fast charging station for 80 percent of the battery capacity.

All of this makes the current generation of the Opel small car a bestseller. Opel Corsa - across all drive variants - has been at the top of its segment in Germany for the past three calendar years. According to statistics from the Federal Motor Transport Authority, in the first half of 2024 Opel Corsa dominated the segment again and also ranked first among battery-electric small cars.

[1] 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.

[2] 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, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning, and thermal preconditioning.

Crisper, More Modern and Digital: New Opel Mokka available from €26,740

• Bold and pure: Accentuated Mokka style with new Opel Blitz and LED lighting signature
• Top technologies: New infotainment with natural voice recognition and widget interface, wireless smartphone connectivity, 180-degree HD rear-view camera
• Opel Vizor optic in the interior: New steering wheel, even clearer centre console
• Electrified: New Opel Mokka Hybrid from €29,740, new Opel Mokka Electric from €36,740 (all prices RRP incl. VAT in Germany)

Modern, compact, with an unmistakeable style – this is Opel Mokka. With its bold and pure design, the Mokka has become a bestseller. Now Opel is making the unconventional compact SUV even more desirable – both on the inside and the outside. New accents further highlight the unique character of the Mokka and Opel is also bringing technologies from higher vehicle segments to the SUV B segment. And that is not all, the brand with the Blitz has also opened the order books for the new Mokka. With the efficient 100 kW (136 hp) petrol engine prices start at €26,740. As a hybrid with 48-volt technology it is available from prices starting at €29,740 whereas prices for the battery-electric Mokka Electric with 115 kW (156 hp) electric motor and up to 403 kilometres of locally emissions-free range (WLTP 2) start at €36,740 in Germany. In the anniversary year of “125 years of automobile manufacturing at Opel”, the manufacturer is once again making innovations available for a wide range of customers.

“Our Mokka is a bestseller. Bold, pure and unmistakeable – a car full of character that stands out in the crowd. That is exactly why we have only gently sharpened its contemporary design with the new Opel Blitz and graphic elements. The biggest change can be found in the interior. The cockpit now appears even clearer and takes up the Opel Vizor graphics from the front of the vehicle. In addition, the driver and passengers of the new Opel Mokka can enjoy the next generation of infotainment. We are delighted to open the order books for the new Opel Mokka already,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

Character sharpened: New Opel Blitz, lighting blocks and graphical accents

With its bold and clear lines, including the Opel Vizor, the Mokka has already made its mark. It was the first model to introduce the characteristic brand fascia, which now adorns every new model. This confident design inspires customers – and that is why Opel has not completely overhauled the Mokka's appearance, but rather subtly emphasised its visual strengths. The new Opel Blitz in the centre of the Opel Vizor brand face helps to further sharpen the Mokka's character. The black Vizor visually integrates the new Blitz and the headlights into one element. As on the new Opel Frontera, the familiar wing signature of the LED lights at the front and rear shines in a more modern interpretation with three ‘lighting blocks’ ensuring an uncompromising look.

In keeping with the motto ‘black is beautiful’, a black design line running from the bonnet to the rear above the side windows will attract attention in every variant in future. On the Opel Mokka GS, black claddings at the front, rear and wheel arches also convey sporty elegance. A high-gloss black trim strip running across the lower door surfaces to the rear reflects the window design line in the side moulding and emphasises the stylish appearance. In line with Opel's ‘Greenovation’ approach, special aero wheels (available for the Opel Mokka Electric) and the redesigned front bumper improve aerodynamics. In addition, the new Opel Mokka completely dispenses with chrome applications on the exterior.

Detox and Greenovation: New Opel Mokka interior shines in new light

The new Opel Mokka continues its resource-saving approach in the interior. All fabrics are made from materials with recycled content. Visually, the ‘detox’ approach – the clear focus on the essentials – takes centre stage. The new steering wheel, flattened at the top and bottom, not only conveys a sporty character, it also brings the Opel Vizor into the cabin with the new Blitz in the centre and reflects the Opel compass of the exterior design with horizontal lines.

The centre console between the front seats, in a matt silver tone, is now even clearer than before. The designers and engineers have integrated some of the settings previously controlled via buttons into the central colour touchscreen. The entire cockpit design thus appears fresher and more desirable, as if from a higher vehicle class. For example, the design of the remaining switches for the electric parking brake and the selectable driving modes (on the Mokka Electric and automatic variants) comes from the all-new Opel Grandland.

Intelligent, intuitive, customisable: Upgraded infotainment system

The new multimedia and navigation infotainment system also takes the new Mokka to the next level. The further developed bestseller now offers a 10-inch digital driver information display and an equally large colour touchscreen as standard. The 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 the natural voice recognition. Both displays can be personalised in many ways. The system recognises the driver's personal profile on the connected smartphone; the connection is always wireless in the new Mokka. Various virtual shortcuts can be set up on the central screen and different colour schemes offer further customisation options.

When ordered with the integrated navigation system, map updates are made available over-the-air. The system also constantly learns thanks to ChatGPT (available in combination with Connected Navigation) and – based on the habits of the linked driver profile – independently suggests destinations and routes. The myOpel app can also be used to easily send the destination and the corresponding route to the vehicle. Furthermore, the infotainment system of the Mokka Electric offers EV routing with charging station display. In addition, smartphones can also be charged wirelessly. Portable devices such as smartphones and tablets can also be connected via the USB-C plug in the centre console. Elsewhere, the optional 180-degree rear-view camera ensures excellent visibility when manoeuvring in the city.

Detoxed offer: Two electrified drivetrains, two trims, two packs

Opel is making the selection process for the new Mokka as clear as the design: The newcomer will be available in the “Edition” and “GS” trims and can be further customised with two individualisation packs.

On the drive side, Opel Mokka customers can choose from an efficient petrol engine for an entry-level price of €26,740 and two electrified alternatives. The compact SUV will be available both as a modern hybrid with 48-volt technology and as a battery-electric, locally emissions-free Mokka Electric. Fully electric, the new Mokka is now available from €36,740 exclusively with the 115 kW (156 hp) electric motor and 54 kWh battery. Thanks to efficient packaging, the engineers were able to ensure an exemplary range with a compact battery size. This means that up to 403 kilometres (WLTP 2) can be covered locally emissions-free. The space-saving underfloor location of the battery enables a low centre of gravity and ensures that the new Opel Mokka Electric stands confidently on the road. And with 260 Newton meters of torque available immediately, Opel Mokka Electric provides quick acceleration from a standing start and plenty of driving pleasure.

Customers who prefer an alternative drive can choose the new Opel Mokka Hybrid with 48-volt technology for prices starting at €29,740. It combines a 100 kW (136 hp) 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 21 kW (28 hp) electric motor and a new electrified six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The optimised system helps to significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to a comparable conventionally powered vehicle. And at low speeds, Opel Mokka Hybrid drivers can even steer their SUV through city traffic purely electrically and thus locally emissions-free.

With the new Mokka, Frontera and Grandland, all of which are now available to order, Opel offers a state-of-the-art, future-proof SUV trio that fulfils virtually all customer wishes.

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] Range values 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.

A Car for Everyone: Opel Laubfrosch rolls off production line 100 Years Ago

• Small, green, unconventional: Opel 4/12 PS makes individual mobility affordable
• Revolutionary: In 1924, Opel is first German car manufacturer to produce on an assembly line
• Electric pioneer today: Since 2019, Opel’s first fully electric small car, best-selling Corsa, has made electric mobility accessible to everyone

Opel started producing cars 125 years ago and soon enjoyed its first successes with models such as the 4/8 PS (hp) “Doktorwagen”. From the very beginning, the manufacturer has made it its mission to provide mobility for a broad section of the population. The breakthrough comes in 1924: exactly 100 years ago, Opel introduces mass production with assembly line technology. The first car to roll off the assembly line in Germany is the Opel 4/12 PS “Laubfrosch”, which is always painted green. With this new model, Opel revolutionises the automotive industry in Germany. Thanks to its highly efficient production, prices fall and individual mobility on four wheels becomes affordable for many for the first time. Sales climb to unprecedented heights. Around 120,000 units of the Opel 4 PS are produced between May 1924 and June 1931.

Today, Corsa plays the role of the affordable and innovative small car pioneer at Opel. Since its market launch over 40 years ago, it continually has brought top technologies to the small car segment that drivers are usually only familiar with from higher vehicle classes. As an “electric pioneer”, the Corsa is the first Opel model to kick off the brand's major electric offensive in 2019. With huge success: the Corsa Electric becomes a bestseller and paves the way for further development. Since then, Opel has consistently electrified its entire range – and this year, the manufacturer will offer at least one battery-electric variant for each model. However, Opel laid the foundation for modern, efficient series production 100 years ago – with the introduction of the assembly line and the Opel 4/12 PS.

New customer groups: Opel 4/12 PS Laubfrosch as a “car for everyone”

Opel 4/12 PS breaks with convention right from the start in 1924: Instead of being large and black like most models, it is a small, robust vehicle in green – which quickly earns it the nickname “Laubfrosch” (“Tree Frog”). It has numerous innovations to offer, including a four-cylinder block engine with direct flange-mounted gearbox, removable cylinder covers, oil pump lubrication, steel multi-plate clutch, adjustable windscreen and steel disc wheels. Like the wheels, the vehicle frame is also made of pressed steel; the rest of the body is made of steel and wood. Its one-litre in-line four-cylinder engine accelerates the small car to a top speed of 60 km/h and achieves an impressive 50 km/h in third gear. The gear lever of the right-hand drive vehicle is no longer mounted on the outside, but – very modern for the time – is easily accessible in the centre of the vehicle. Initially offered as a two-seater and later as an extended three-seater, the Laubfrosch is 3.20 metres long, 1.35 metres wide and 1.65 metres high, has a folding top as weather protection and even a boot integrated behind the seat bench in the pointed rear.

The “car for everyone”, as Opel advertised at the time, costs 4,500 Rentenmark at the start of production – not much compared to other vehicles, but still as much as a private home. It becomes the “Volks”- Opel (Opel for all) because its sales price falls from year to year thanks to the continuous development of assembly line technology. In 1930, the Opel 4/20 PS is available as a simple two-seater for as little as 1,990 Reichsmark. With more than 100,000 units produced up to then, it had already established itself as an ideal and affordable car for craftsmen such as country doctors, architects and sales representatives.

Fast and efficient: Innovative assembly line technology as the key to success

Success of the first mass-produced car in Germany was not foreseeable when the Opel brothers decide in 1923 – in the middle of the inflationary period – to produce a vehicle using completely new manufacturing methods and thus revolutionise German car production. Shortly before this, Fritz von Opel had travelled to the USA to take a closer look at assembly line technology and the use of modern machine tools; he also takes further inspiration from France. The Opel brothers then invest the enormous amount of around one million gold marks to modernise the plant and switch from individual to assembly line production. The first assembly line is 45 metres long – not much, but it revolutionises production. The conveyor chains that are soon to be running through the factory are also new. With them, the days when workers had to fetch their materials by hand or with a trolley are gone. Crankcases, camshafts and cylinder blocks are now transported on conveyor belts. The heart of the factory, the assembly line, also grows steadily: by 1928, assembly line production at the Rüsselsheim plant already stretches over a length of around two kilometres.

Production on the assembly line reduces production times to a minimum. While Fritz von Opel had hoped for a daily output of 25 vehicles in the spring of 1924, by the end of the year it is already 100 cars, and just a few months later 125 units of the Laubfrosch are jumping off the production lines every day. Customers benefit twice over: Thanks to the falling production costs resulting from the increasing number of units, the favourable starting price of the Opel 4 PS continues to fall – and the manufacturer is able to meet the continuously growing demand at the same time. The model thus becomes a milestone for the German automotive industry.

Bestseller and electric pioneer: Opel Corsa enables mobility for everyone

Today, the small car bestseller Opel Corsa is the model for all occasions and all buyer groups. It's not for nothing that it has been Germany's most popular small car in recent years. It impresses with its characteristic design including the Opel Vizor brand face, space for up to five people and technologies that make every journey more relaxing. In addition, it offers locally emissions-free driving pleasure in two versions: customers can choose from two battery-electric performance levels. With the new 115 kW (156 hp) drive and 51 kWh battery, up to 405 kilometres (according to WLTP 1) can be covered between charging stops (combined values according to WLTP2: energy consumption 14.6 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 label: A). With the 100 kW (136 hp) and 50 kWh battery variants, up to 357 kilometres (WLTP 1) are possible (combined values according to WLTP2: energy consumption 16.1 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 label: A). And even when the Corsa Electric needs recharging, only a short pitstop is necessary. At a 100 kW direct current fast charging station 80 percent of the battery capacity can be recharged in around 30 minutes. And ordering the small car bestseller is now particularly worthwhile – the Corsa Electric is currently available as a special edition “Yes” in the dynamic GS look at a highly attractive price of just €29,990 (RRP including VAT in Germany).

[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.

[2] 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.

Vauxhall Astra wins ‘Best Medium Car’ at 2024 Business Motoring Awards

• Vauxhall Astra named ‘Best Medium Car’ at 2024 Business Motoring Awards.
• Judges praised Astra’s driving experience, low ownership costs and build quality
• Available as fully electric Vauxhall Astra Electric with a range of up to 258 miles (WLTP)
• Customers can also choose from petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains

Vauxhall Astra has been named ‘Best Medium Car’ at 2024 Business Motoring Awards.

Business Motoring Awards are now in their tenth year and continue to provide a valuable spotlight on the market leaders in SME sector. Awards are judged by an independent panel of automotive experts and members of  Business Motoring editorial team, who praised Astra’s driving experience, low ownership costs and impressive build quality.

Available as a hatch or Sports Tourer estate, with petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants, Vauxhall Astra caters for a wide range of drivers. With zero-emissions-in-use, the 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.

Chris Wright, Editor, Business Motoring, said: “Latest Astra is a great to drive as ever but more importantly, brand has worked hard to bring down ownership costs so car is now even more accessible. Build quality is also excellent and whole package feels well thought out.”

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “Vauxhall’s success at Business Motoring Awards is proof that Astra is a more attractive proposition than ever. With low running costs and a wide range of powertrains to choose from, including fully electric Astra Electric, Astra is an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes.”

Astra Electric is powered by Vauxhall’s next-generation 54kWh battery and a 156hp electric motor. It achieves impressive efficiency of 4.2 miles per kWh, providing up to 258 miles of range (WLTP). 

Vauxhall will offer a fully electric version of every model in its line-up by end of 2024.

January 21, 1899: Opel Began Producing Automobiles 125 Years Ago

• Start of an era: 1899 contract-signing made Opel an automobile manufacturer
• Current bestsellers “made in Rüsselsheim”: Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer
• Anniversary under banner of electromobility: Battery-electric variant of every Opel carline in 2024

2024 is a special year for Opel, under the banner of electromobility. For the first time in the brand's history, every model will have a battery-electric variant – above all the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric, one of the first battery-electric estate cars on the market. However, the company laid the foundation for affordable, innovative and future-proof mobility on four wheels 125 years ago. On January 21, 1899, Wilhelm Opel, son of the company founder Adam Opel, signed a contract with the locksmith Friedrich Lutzmann to buy his Motorwagenfabrik (motor car factory), the starting signal for automobile production at Opel. This marked the start of a new era that would write history far beyond Rüsselsheim. A previously successful sewing machine and bicycle manufacturer, Opel thus ventured into territory unknown to the company exactly 125 years ago.

Since then, more than 75 million Opel vehicles have left the production plants all over Europe. One of the current bestsellers comes from Rüsselsheim: the latest generation of the Opel Astra. As Opel marks the 125th anniversary of automobile production and sets course for the future, the innovative compact class model rolls off the assembly line today with advanced technologies and electrified, locally emissions-free drivetrains.

Opel CEO, Florian Huettl: “Like Opel 125 years ago, we are now at the beginning of a new era. Back then, the company became a pioneer by entering the automobile age. Nowadays, Opel is an electric pioneer, offering locally emissions-free, individual mobility that is also suitable for everyday use. Such as new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric. Like the first Opel automobile, this car also comes from Rüsselsheim. We are proud of this heritage and will therefore be celebrating the anniversary of 125 years of automobile production at Opel under the banner of electromobility”.

Late 1890s: From sewing machines and bicycles to automobiles

Opel's success story began in 1862. Adam Opel built his first sewing machine in Rüsselsheim, thereby laying the foundation for the company. Opel soon developed into one of the largest sewing machine manufacturers in Germany and exported all over Europe. With the bicycle, Opel gained its next successful foothold. The first penny-farthing was built in Rüsselsheim in 1886, making Opel one of the first bicycle makers in Germany. In the 1920s – in parallel to the car business – Opel became the world's largest bicycle manufacturer, a success for which the sons of the now deceased company founder were responsible.

They are also the ones who made the fundamental change to motorised transportation for the Opel company. Due to a decline in the bicycle business in the 1890s, the Opel brothers were searching for new products and came across the automobile. Fritz and Wilhelm Opel visited the first German Motor Show in Berlin in 1897 and met Friedrich Lutzmann there. The master locksmith had been producing motor cars since 1894 and therefore had the experience the Opel brothers were looking for. He invited the Opel brothers to his factory in Dessau where Fritz and Wilhelm immediately recognised the potential for automobile manufacturing that Lutzmann offered them.

While all involved initially thought of a cooperation, the Opel brothers then made Lutzmann an attractive offer for the entire production, including land, building and workshop equipment. On January 21, 1899, Wilhelm Opel and Friedrich Lutzmann signed the contract for a purchase price of 116,887 marks and the factory became the property of Opel.

The whole company, including employees and machinery, was relocated from Dessau to the Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim. Lutzmann himself was appointed sales manager of the Adam Opel Motorfahrzeug-Fabrik.

The takeover of the production and patents meant that Opel immediately gained years of experience in building motor vehicles. From then on, Lutzmann and selected employees brought in from Opel’s bicycle production manufactured cars under the name Opel in a specially erected building. The first advertisements for the new models appeared as early as spring 1899 and announced, “Opel motorcars are the best”.

Pioneering achievement from Rüsselsheim: New Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric

While 125 years ago the Opel-Patentmotorwagen System Lutzmann was a pioneering achievement as the first automobile from Rüsselsheim, today this is the latest generation of the bestseller Opel Astra, which is designed, developed and manufactured there. The especially dynamic electrified top models Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe (fuel consumption according to WLTP 1: 1.3 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 30-29 g/km) roll off the assembly line in Rüsselsheim, along with the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric. The all-electric compact class estate, one of the first of its kind, made its world premiere at last year’s IAA Mobility, impressing all with its design, comfort and spaciousness, and especially its performance. The electric motor delivers 115 kW/156 hp and a powerful 270 Newton meters of maximum torque. And while many other electric cars are limited to 150 km/h or 160 km/h, the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric can reach a top speed of 170 km/h. A driving range of up to 413 km (WLTP2) is possible on a single charge of the battery. State-of-the-art technologies, such as the class-leading IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements, and the IntelliDrive 2.0 system with semi-automatic lane change and intelligent speed adaptation, are also available.

125 years after the start of automobile production in Rüsselsheim, Opel and its customers are driving into the future locally emissions-free, with vehicles that are fun to drive and suitable for everyday use. 2024 will be marked by the major anniversary and Opel's continued journey towards electrification, accompanied by celebrations as well as innovative new models. More information about the anniversary year will follow soon.

[1] Values determined using the more realistic WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure) test method which replaces NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test procedure. A vehicle's consumption, CO2 emissions and range not only depend on the efficient use of energy by the vehicle but are also influenced by driving style and other non-technical factors. Information on consumption and emissions does not refer to an individual vehicle and is intended solely for purposes of comparison between the various vehicle types.

[2] Range values 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.

ADAC Ecotest 2023: Podium for Opel Astra Electric

• Sustainability success: All-electric Astra takes third position among 94 cars
• Sets standards: Opel only German carmaker in top 10
• Long distance travel: Up to 418 km (WLTP 1) locally emissions-free without charging stop

Opel Astra Electric is fun to drive, features state-of-the-art technologies and is highly efficient. Confirmation has now been provided by ADAC German automobile club. In the ADAC Ecotest 2023  battery-electric version of the compact class bestseller secured third position among 94 current passenger cars. Strong result also makes Opel the only German brand in the top 10. Opel thus sets standards when it comes to electromobility suitable for everyday use.

Opel Astra Electric scored 103 out of 110 possible points to achieve the best five-star rating. According to ADAC: “Cleanest cars drive electrically – although ADAC does not consider electric cars as zero emissions vehicles and includes the emissions created during energy-generation.” Summing up the result for the locally emissions-free Opel ADAC said: “With 103 points on its Ecotest-debut Opel Astra Electric made a strong impression. Car from Rüsselsheim distanced itself from competition in compact class. Low kerb weight, good energy management and standard heat pump contribute to reductions in energy consumption and CO2 emissions.”

With assets like these Opel Astra Electric combines fun with responsibility. Electric motor delivers 115 kW/156 hp and a powerful 270 Newton metres of maximum torque from the first touch of the accelerator. Low kerb weight of 1,679 kilogrammes contributes further to the lively progress and low energy consumption. Also, while many other electric cars are limited to 150 km/h or 160 km/h, new Opel Astra Electric has a top speed of 170 km/h.

Energy is stored in a 54-kWh lithium-ion battery. Five-door Opel Astra can cover up to 418 kilometres locally emissions-free (WLTP 1) and requires just 14.8 kWh of electricity per 100 km (WLTP 2) – also thanks to heat pump. Opel Astra Electric is therefore a highly efficient car for everyday use as well as longer journeys. In addition, regenerative braking system ensures that energy can be recovered while driving. These attributes – along with additional roominess for family holidays – are shared by the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric, one of the first all-electric estate cars on the market.

[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.

[2] Values determined using more realistic WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure) test method which replaces the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test procedure. A vehicle's consumption, CO2 emissions and range not only depend on the efficient use of energy by vehicle but are also influenced by driving style and other non-technical factors. Information on consumption and emissions does not refer to an individual vehicle and is intended solely for purposes of comparison between various vehicle types.

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.

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.>