Opel STX Concept: German Manufacturer Reveals Name of Next Visionary Concept Car

• New chapter: Opel STX Concept shows vision for estate cars of the future at the upcoming Paris Motor Show
• For racetrack or road: Opel GSE 27FE race car and Corsa GSE hot hatch define pure electric performance on the Opel stand A42 in hall 4
• Practical and flexible: Latest Opel Astra Sports Tourer continues long tradition of innovative Opel estates

With the Paris Motor Show drawing ever closer Opel has revealed that its latest concept car will be called Opel Sports Tourer eXperimental Concept or STX Concept for short. The show car from Rüsselsheim will celebrate its world premiere at the ‘Mondial de l'Auto’ where it will take centre stage alongside the Opel GSE 27FE, the manufacturer’s race car for the upcoming season of ABB FIA Formula E World Championship and the recently launched Corsa Opel GSE hot hatch.

The name STX Concept gives a clear indication that the German manufacturer will show its vision for the future of estate cars in Paris with the abbreviation ST closely associated with Sports Tourer models with the Blitz – such as the latest Opel Astra Sports Tourer. Opel played a pioneering role in establishing the estate body style in Europe with the introduction of the Olympia Rekord Caravan in 1953. 

Today, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer continues this long-standing tradition in the Opel portfolio and impresses with outstanding practicality, flexibility and technology. Thanks to its sophisticated design with the illuminated Blitz emblem of the characteristic Vizor brand face the Opel Astra Sports Tourer can comfortably double as a stylish family car or as an eye-catching workhorse that offers up to 1,634 litres of load volume.

Opel CEO Florian Huettl confirmed: “As the name indicates, the Opel STX Concept will give our vision of the future of an aero-efficient estate – a body style that Opel played a pioneering role in establishing in Europe. It shows our next generation design language and feature elements that you will see in future production models.”

Motorsport genes: Opel GSE 27FE and new Opel Corsa GSE

The STX Concept will be one of the highlights on the Opel stand (Hall 4, Stand A42). It will sit alongside the Opel GSE 27FE, Opel’s GEN4 racing car for the 2026/27 Formula E season. With permanent all-wheel drive, an output of over 800 hp and a recuperation output of up to 700 kW, the GEN4 cars will take electric motorsport to a completely new level. With record winner Mitch Evans and rookie Théo Pourchaire on board, and preparations progressing smoothly and to plan, the Opel GSE Formula E Team is gathering momentum ahead of the new season.

Furthermore, the recently launched Corsa GSE will show how Opel is bringing high-performance electric motoring into series production. The latest hot hatch with the Blitz already benefits from the extensive work done by the engineers in Rüsselsheim and the Opel Motorsport team with the Corsa GSE sharing a powertrain with the Opel Mokka GSE and its rally counterpart, the Mokka GSE Rally. With 207 kW (281 hp) and 345 Newton metres of torque the Corsa GSE accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds – faster than any other current production Opel.

Together with Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann and Vice President Design Mark Adams, Opel CEO Florian Huettl will present these and other highlights with the Blitz to an international audience at the Opel Press Conference, which will take place at 11.40 CEST on Monday, October 12. Further details on the new concept car will follow closer to the Paris Motor Show.

New Opel Astra GSE Line Celebrates Debut at Paris Motor Show 2026

• Dynamic GSE accents: New trim featuring sharper front styling, distinctive alloy wheels and characteristic interior design
• GSE style with free choice of powertrains: Available across the entire range, right up to the future top-of-the-range variant with 206 kW (280 hp)
• From spring 2027: Opel Astra GSE Line kicks things off, with further GSE Line models to follow later in the year

 

The new all-electric everyday sports cars Opel Mokka GSE and Opel Corsa GSE – which has been available to order for just a few days – are wowing the media and the public alike with their performance, precision and highly dynamic design. Consequently, Opel is following up quickly, bringing the GSE experience to other models – with the latest Astra debuting the new trim. The compact class bestseller made in Rüsselsheim will be on display as the Opel Astra GSE Line at the Paris Motor Show for the first time with first images of the newcomer now available.

With the new trim, customers will be able to drive their own car in the distinctive GSE design while retaining a free choice of powertrains. The new GSE Line, which will replace the existing GS trim from spring 2027 and give the Astra an even sharper look, can be combined with battery-electric, plug-in hybrid or hybrid powertrains, as well as conventional internal combustion engines.

“More dynamic, sharper, more attractive – what applies to the new Opel Mokka GSE and Corsa GSE hot hatches is something we want our customers to be able to experience in our other cars as well. At the same time, we want them to have a free choice and be able to drive their preferred sporty model with exactly the powertrain which suits their needs. Visitors of the Paris Motor Show will be able to experience first-hand how this extra sportiness is combined with maximum practicality for everyday use, as demonstrated by the new Opel Astra GSE Line,” said Marc Fetzer, Opel Vice President Current Product.

Consistent strategy: Opel Astra GSE Line enhances high-performance GSE experience

GSE stands for ‘Grand Sport Electric’ and thus for goosebumps, speed and emotions. Opel demonstrates this in motorsport with the Opel Mokka GSE Rally in the ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup and, very soon, with the new Opel GSE 27FE racing car in Formula E, as well as with the 207 kW (281 hp) all-electric Opel Mokka GSE and Opel Corsa GSE on the road. The latter will also make its motor show debut in Paris.

With the new GSE Line trim, Opel expands its strategy to offer customers even more GSE feeling. While the Opel Astra GSE Line features the same high-quality standard items as the previous GS specification, it has an even more dynamic visual appearance. The further refined Opel Astra front contributes to this at first glance. The front inserts below the Opel Vizor now shine in a specific GSE Line colour design. Added to this is distinctive ‘GSE LINE’ lettering on the bumper. The diamond-cut alloy wheels – available as standard in 17-inch or, on request, in 18-inch – emphasise the highly dynamic appearance.

Opel Astra GSE Line drivers immediately sense the GSE atmosphere the moment they get into their car. The designers have paid attention to even the smallest details: the seats, as well as the steering wheel, door inserts and centre armrest, feature the characteristic bright yellow stitching. The driver controls acceleration and braking via aluminium sports pedals. Optional special sports seats with integrated headrests also ensure optimum support (on Astra, Astra Hybrid and Astra Plug-in Hybrid).

Opel Astra GSE Line customers will in future be able to choose from the compact class model’s full range of powertrains to suit their individual performance requirements. And following the official launch of the Astra GSE Line in spring 2027, Opel will introduce a very special variant with an output of 206 kW (280 hp) 1 and additional highlights later in the year. Further GSE Line models will also follow. Opel will announce details in Paris.

[1] Vehicle, trim level and powertrain not yet available to order.

Opel Continues Growth Momentum: New Registrations, Market Share and Electric Vehicle Sales Increase in the First Half-Year

• On track for global growth: Opel and Vauxhall sell around 313,000 vehicles in the first half of 2026
• Europe gains momentum: Passenger car sales rise by 11.8 percent
• Strong performance in Germany: Passenger car registrations are up by 15 percent
• Successful models driving demand: Corsa remains number one, SUV family grows by more than 37 percent

Opel continued its positive growth momentum in the first half of 2026. From January to June, Opel and its British sister brand Vauxhall sold around 313,000 vehicles worldwide. The passenger car business in particular showed strong growth, with sales rising by more than 7 per cent compared with the same period last year.

Business also developed positively across Europe. In the Enlarged Europe region, Opel and Vauxhall sold around 231,000 passenger cars in the first half of the year, increasing sales by 11.8 percent compared with the same period last year. The market share rose to over 3 percent.

In particular, Opel’s latest generation of models is proving highly popular with customers. Demand for the SUV family comprising Grandland, Frontera and Mokka remains strong, with sales increasing by over 37 percent compared to the previous year globally. The new Vauxhall Frontera is also confirming its successful market launch: In the British B-SUV segment, the model has already reached second place. The all-electric variant is setting the benchmark in its class and has conquered the leading position among electric B-SUVs with a market share of around 16 percent.

Alongside the SUV range, the Opel Corsa remains one of the key success drivers for the German manufacturer. In the United Kingdom, the Vauxhall Corsa continues to lead in the B-hatch segment with a market share of more than 13 percent. In Germany, the Opel Corsa stays the clear number one among small cars. With a segment share of 17.2 percent, it further strengthened its leading position and gained an additional 1.1 percentage points compared with the previous year.

"In the first half of the year, we managed to continue growing despite a challenging market environment. With attractive vehicles, a consistent electrification approach and a strong presence in our core markets, we are continuing to gain market share. The development of our new SUV models and the ongoing success story of the Corsa are particularly pleasing. This gives us strong momentum as we enter the second half of the year," said Florian Huettl, CEO Opel and Vauxhall.

Opel delivered a particularly strong performance in its home market of Germany. With an increase of 15 percent in new passenger car registrations compared with the previous year, the German manufacturer continued its growth momentum in the first half of the year and achieved a market share of 5 percent among passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. At the same time, the success of the Astra Sports Tourer Electric underlines the strength of the current product portfolio: the model continues to hold the leading position in its segment among mainstream manufacturers.

[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.

60 Years of Opel in Kaiserslautern: Powerful Display of Expertise, Performance and Adaptability!

• Lively celebration for the region: Open day attracts several thousand visitors
• Grand reception: Opel CEO Huettl, Managing Director Human Resources Wangemann and Plant Manager Stern welcome Minister for Economic Affairs Ebling, IG Metall Chair Benner, Lord Mayor Kimmel and other VIPs
• Exciting programme: A look behind the scenes, Astra test drives, classic car exhibition, current models and the visionary Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept car
• Ongoing success story: Site today as an important parts supplier in the group

Thousands of visitors flocked to the factory site in Kaiserslautern on Saturday in glorious sunshine. The ‘60 Years of Opel in Kaiserslautern’ anniversary celebrations offered guests a varied programme: With the chance to test drive the new Opel Astra, a classic car exhibition and displays such as the stunning high-performance Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept car, employees, their families and friends, as well as all Opel fans, were able to get to know the plant from a completely different perspective – and take a look behind the scenes.

Prominent guests from the worlds of politics, business, sport and society also took advantage of this opportunity. Opel CEO and Managing Director Stellantis Germany, Florian Huettl, welcomed Michael Ebling, Rhineland-Palatinate’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Tourism, Energy and Climate; Christiane Benner, Chair of IG Metall; Beate Kimmel, Lord Mayor of Kaiserslautern; and other guests of honour to the anniversary celebrations.

“60 years of production in Kaiserslautern – at a time when an entire industry is undergoing transformation – is far more than just a milestone anniversary. It is a powerful display of industrial expertise, performance, and our ability to compete and adapt – even, and especially, under challenging conditions. Today, Kaiserslautern is a key hub in our global production network, which continues to develop steadily thanks to the passionate commitment of all our employees. I would like to thank everyone for this dedication,” said Florian Huettl, together with Ralph Wangemann, Managing Director Human Resources and Labour Director of Opel Automobile GmbH and Head of Human Resources at Stellantis in Germany, and Plant Manager Bilyana Stern, addressing the employees and guests.

Minister for Economic Affairs Michael Ebling offered his congratulations: “The 60th anniversary of the Opel components plant in Kaiserslautern symbolises industrial strength, innovative power and the dedication of many employees. The site is more than just a factory; it is a defining feature of the city of Kaiserslautern and a key economic driver for the region, supplying plants worldwide. The fact that so many people are joining in the anniversary celebrations demonstrates the close bond between the company, its employees and the local community. I offer my warmest congratulations on this 60th anniversary and I am convinced that the plant will continue to write the next chapters of its success story with the same reliability, flexibility and innovative spirit.”

“60 years of Opel in Kaiserslautern is, above all, about the people who have shaped and sustained this site over the decades. The fact that the plant has consistently held its ground and successfully evolved is a testament to their dedication and high level of expertise. With a skilled workforce, modern production conditions, a central location in Europe, and close ties to science and research, the Kaiserslautern site is ideally positioned for a successful future," said Beate Kimmel, Mayor of Kaiserslautern.

From classic car rally to football: Celebrations show Opel’s roots in the region

Early risers could enjoy the day’s first highlight even before the official start of the anniversary celebrations. At around 8.30 CEST, the 4th ADAC Trifels Oldtimerwanderung of the Sportfahrer Union Kaiserslautern set off from the factory grounds. 

 At 10 CEST, the plant then opened its gates to visitors – who were treated to a host of experiences over the following hours. During a guided tour, interested visitors learnt about the processes in the press shop and in component production. 

After all, around 400 different components are manufactured in Kaiserslautern. More than 350,000 parts produced here leave the plant every day in all directions of Europe, where they are then fitted into more than 30 different Opel and Stellantis models – the top-of-the-line Opel Grandland SUV alone contains over 100 parts that are manufactured in Kaiserslautern.

Naturally, the spotlight was also on the models bearing the iconic Opel Blitz emblem – first and foremost the new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer. The latest variants of the compact class bestsellers ‘made in Germany’ were available for test drives, and numerous guests took full advantage of this occasion. Before or afterwards, they were able to take a look at the brand’s rich heritage at the classic car exhibition, which showcased rare models from the Opel Classic collection. The company’s highly dynamic vision of the future was also on display – in the form of the 588 kW (800 hp) all-electric high-performance Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept car.

Just how closely Opel is linked to the region was also demonstrated by the special guests from the world of sport who attended the anniversary celebrations, much to the delight of many fans: Gero Scira, Chairman of the Board of 1. FC Kaiserslautern e.V., and FCK legend Florian Dick represented the football club and were happy to sign autographs. As an official ‘Herz der Pfalz’ (Heart of the Palatinate) partner, Opel is joining forces with 1. FC Kaiserslautern to mark this anniversary year with activities centred on youth sport, women’s football and e-sports, thereby sending a clear signal about the strength and sustainable development of the region.

The band ‘Roof Rabbits’ provided excellent musical entertainment throughout the afternoon. Meanwhile, even the youngest visitors were able to let off steam on the factory premises: whether it was the bouncy castle, the Bobby Car and obstacle courses, the mini-kart track, car painting, goal-shooting or various games of skill – there was plenty to keep everyone entertained. 

And for the ‘grown-up’ youngsters, Opel’s vocational training team provided exciting information about Opel as an employer. As a result, the open day marking ‘60 Years of Opel in Kaiserslautern’ became a celebration for the whole family – and an event that demonstrated just how closely the manufacturer is linked to its Kaiserslautern site.

Opel Becomes Strategic Partner of the German Women's and Men's Handball National Teams and Title Sponsor of the Handball Bundesliga

• Opel electrifies German handball: New sponsor of the German women's and men's national teams from July 1, 2026
• Double deal: Opel also becomes the new title sponsor of the men's Handball Bundesliga
• Opel commitment to professional sport: Handball contracts run for three seasons
• Made in Germany: New Opel Astra and Opel Grandland designed, developed and built in Germany

German manufacturer Opel will become a key partner of German handball after signing two significant sponsorship agreements. Opel will become a strategic partner of the German national handball teams – both women's and men's – from July 1, 2026. The commitment runs for three years. At the same time, Opel will be the new title sponsor of the strongest handball league in the world, which will be officially named ‘Opel Handball-Bundesliga’. For three seasons, the Rüsselsheim-based manufacturer will electrify all 18 Bundesliga clubs, all games and, above all, fans across Germany and beyond. With a holistic strategy of comprehensive activation and financial support, Opel is becoming a strategic partner of German handball. The partnerships with the association and the league were brokered by the sports rights and marketing agency SPORTFIVE.

 With these new partnerships, Opel is continuing its commitment to sport, which has a history spanning more than 130 years. At the same time, the brand with Blitz aims to further sharpen its sporting profile and further establish the hugely popular and growing sport of handball in the heart of society.

 “Opel and handball are a perfect match. Both stand for team spirit, motivation and dynamism," said Patrick Dinger, Head of Opel Germany. “Like Opel, the handball fan base sits firmly at the centre of society and is family-oriented, down-to-earth, approachable and authentic. And: Both brands were created and grew in Germany and have always stood for 'Made in Germany'. Together with our retail partners, we are looking forward to an exciting, energetic and successful cooperation with the national teams and the league."

Mark Schober, CEO of the German Handball Federation (DHB), said: “Opel and German handball move people. The DHB, HBL, and Opel are bringing energy and values to the partnership in such a way that we can grow together in a strong handball alliance. We already have a shared history, and we are now contributing our talents for a successful future with the ‘Made in Germany’ quality seal. The partnership with Opel opens up great opportunities for German handball.”

 Uwe Schwenker, HBL President and member of the board of the German Handball Federation said: “We are delighted to welcome Opel as the new naming rights partner. The Opel brand stands for performance, innovation, and high reliability, as well as outstanding technical expertise. This is an excellent fit for handball. The fact that this globally active automotive manufacturer has chosen us demonstrates the significant national and international appeal of our league.”

Frank Bohmann, Managing Director of HBL GmbH added: “On every match day, the HBL demonstrates passion, courage, innovative strength, and an unwavering commitment to performance and success. These values also apply to Opel, a manufacturer which we perceive as approachable, attainable, and innovative. We are therefore thrilled that the HBL and Opel, two iconic German brands with a strong presence, are joining forces to create innovative concepts that make handball and mobility a modern and attractive experience for fans and customers.”

Opel's strategic measures include the targeted promotion of handball and the sharpening of the brand profile. At the same time, the long-term sponsorship supports Opel's identification in the field of high-performance sports. Furthermore, Opel will become the mobility partner of German handball. Opel has always built sporty and modern vehicles and today, this claim is embodied in particular by the new high-performance GSE models. It is also emphasised by the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, designed, engineered and built at the Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim, and the top-of-the-line SUV Grandland produced in Eisenach. These models stand for German engineering.

 Speed, closeness and electrifying tension: Opel with a strong handball message

With the world's first all-electric rally one-make cup, Opel has been underlining its pioneering role and competence in exciting locally emissions-free motorsport that inspires customers and fans for five years now. The entry into Formula E reinforces this claim. At the same time, Opel is proving how electric sporty driving pleasure arouses pure emotions and works for the middle of society with its hot new ‘everyday sports cars’ such as the battery-electric Opel Mokka GSE and the recently unveiled Opel Corsa GSE.

Like Opel's new high-performance GSE models, fast-paced ball sports such as handball are characterised by dynamism, excitement and emotions. The strategic partnership with the German women's and men's national handball teams as well as the strongest handball league in the world is therefore a perfect fit. Handball has become the second most popular sport in Germany. In addition, handball is one of the team sports with the widest reach on German TV. In addition, thousands of fans flock to the arenas for every game. Both partners – handball and Opel – clearly embody the ‘Made in and made for Germany’ idea: both originated and grew in Germany with a clear focus on the enthusiasm of the ever-growing fan base.

Strengthening of brands: With national teams and the ‘Opel Handball-Bundesliga’

At the appearances of the national teams, the Opel wordmark and Blitz emblem will feature prominently on the jerseys of the players and other officials. The same applies to all teams of the Handball Bundesliga. In addition, the ‘Opel HBL’ composite logo will underline and emphasise the ‘Opel Handball-Bundesliga’ across all arenas and channels for the next three seasons. With banner ads, spots, advertisements and social media activities, Opel will increase awareness among viewers – at the games and appearances of the women's and men's national teams as well as in the context of the Handball Bundesliga.

What's more, Opel will develop targeted formats that actively appeal to the audience and in particular to young and digital target groups. Activities such as special media days, behind-the-scenes access, ticket raffles, further competitions and much more are planned. Of course, the retail partners always act as the central interface between Opel as a manufacturer and the handball community.

Opel has a proud tradition of being a partner of sports in general and dynamic ball sports in particular. With all the measures mentioned, Opel is now returning to handball with a bang. As early as the 1980s and 1990s, the manufacturer was the jersey sponsor of the national handball team and partner of the seven-time German champion TV Großwallstadt. With the comprehensive new commitment to the national teams and the Handball Bundesliga, Opel will continue to increase the popularity of handball and at the same time, the partners can look forward to an exciting future.

Opel Increases Global Sales in the First Quarter of 2026 – Double-Digit Growth in Europe

• Worldwide growth: New registrations increase by almost 8% in the first quarter
• Strong in Europe: Passenger car sales in Europe up almost 18% year-on-year
• Continued strength: Corsa remains best-selling small car in Germany and the UK
• Convincing SUVs: Opel Grandland, Frontera and Mokka with double-digit increase

Opel grew worldwide significantly in the first quarter of 2026. From January to March, Opel and its British sister brand Vauxhall sold more than 157,000 cars and light commercial vehicles. That is almost 8%  more than in the previous year.

Growth drivers included the SUV models Mokka, Frontera and Grandland newly launched in 2025. The trio recorded double-digit growth compared to the first quarter of 2025. The new Frontera, for example, is also very successful as an electric vehicle. In the United Kingdom (UK) it is the best-selling all-electric B-SUV in the first quarter of the year, in Spain it ranks fourth and, in the Netherlands, it ranks fifth.

Meanwhile, demand for the Opel Corsa, Germany's best-selling small car for over five years, remains high and is even increasing. Sales of the bestseller were up by 25% in Germany in March. It thus remains the undisputed number one among small cars in Opel’s home market in the first quarter. The same is true in the United Kingdom, while the Corsa is number two in the Netherlands and number three in Portugal, Belgium and Turkey.

"All these figures clearly show that Opel is on a clear road to success. Furthermore, the new Astra has recently started rolling off the production line at our main plant in Rüsselsheim. Our designers and engineers have done an excellent job. The car will convince customers and give us additional drive. I am convinced: 2026 will be a good year for Opel," said Florian Huettl, CEO Opel and Vauxhall.

Passenger car sales in Europe developed particularly positively. From January to March, Opel and Vauxhall sold more than 115,000 passenger cars in the EU29 region. That is 18% more than a year ago. The market share rose by 0.4 percentage points to 3.3%. Also remarkable: In almost all markets, new registrations were higher than in the first quarter of 2025.

Things went particularly well in Opel's home market of Germany. Almost 33,600 new passenger car registrations in the first quarter represent an increase of 39% compared to the same period last year. The market share was up by 1.2 percentage points to 4.8%. In March alone, 13,700 Opel passenger cars were newly registered – that was an impressive 43% more than in the same month of 2025.

Hidden in Plain Sight: Shark-Spotting in the New Opel Astra

• Secretive sea creatures: Finding sharks in the new Opel Astra requires a keen eye
• Full of character: Compact class bestseller is sharper and more modern than ever
• Iconic idea: Shark tradition at Opel began more than 20 years ago with a boy's brainwave
• For shark fans: Customers will also be able to spot little sharks in future Opel models

With Easter and the traditional egg hunt Opel can offer an exciting alternative activity no matter what the weather – the traditional Opel shark spotting. These secretive sea creatures have been a tradition at Opel for two decades now. To delight fans, the team in Rüsselsheim always comes with new hiding places for the sea dwellers – as is now the case with the new Opel Astra. The compact class bestseller – designed, engineered and built at Opel’s headquarters – not only looks more modern, sharper and more distinctive than ever, but also has a few surprises in store.

The adaptive IntelliLux HD lighting system, featuring over 50,000 elements, is not such a surprise but rather the logical next step in lighting technology. Following its introduction in the top-of-the-range Opel Grandland SUV, it is now being used for the first time in the new Opel Astra, which is already available to order. The improved range of the Opel Astra Electric is also a logical step forward, allowing drivers and passengers to travel up to 454 kilometres (WLTP 2) between charging stops. The more modern appearance is underlined by the sharper design, featuring an even narrower and more precisely styled Opel Vizor. Additionally, both the Vizor and the Blitz are illuminated.

But whilst the new Opel Astra makes an even brighter appearance overall, the little sharks are normally afraid of the light. They feel much more at home beneath the Astra’s surfaces, which are crafted from eco-friendly materials. 

This means that the search for these cartilaginous fish remains exciting in the newcomer. A little hint: it is worth changing one’s perspective between the front seats and turning things around a bit. And in the luggage compartment of the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer, the sharks might just be ‘swimming’ at higher altitudes than expected.

Iconic brainwave: The Opel sharks story began in 2004

But how come that, for the past 20 years now, miniature sharks have been popping up in all kinds of Opel passenger cars and generating such enthusiasm within the community? A brief look back: One Sunday afternoon in 2004, designer Dietmar Finger was at home working on a sketch for the Opel Corsa D which was to be launched two years later. He was designing the ordinary outer panel of the glove box, which is mostly invisible because it is hidden by the closed passenger door. However, when the glove box is opened, this panel must ensure stability – which it does with ribs integrated in the plastic surface. Finger was designing the ribs when his son looked at the sketch and said, “Why don’t you just draw a shark?” “Why not!” thought the designer and gave the ribs their characteristic shape! The next day, he showed the shark profile to Niels Loeb and the then Opel Corsa Chief Designer was immediately sold on the idea. The shark in the glove box went into series production and the ‘Opel sharks story’ began.

Next came the Opel Zafira, where Karim Giordimaina, then in charge of the interior design, hid three sharks in the compact van’s cockpit. Further permanent ‘shark appearances’ followed, first in the Opel ADAM and subsequently in all other car models up to the current generations of the Opel Grandland, Frontera and Mokka as well as the new Astra, where several tiny sea creatures are hidden in various places.

This has created an iconic ritual. Since the mid-2000s, every interior chief designer has made sure that at the end of the development process of a new model they have at least one shark somewhere in the interior. The exact locations always remain secret, even from top management. The fish therefore often stay hidden until the launch, which makes for an interesting search for shark lovers both inside and outside the company.

Consequently, the ‘Opel shark story’ will continue. Thus, in future Opel vehicles, too, the mini predators will be making their rounds, sometimes more, sometimes less hidden. Depending on the model, they may well change their territory in the depths of the interior and bodywork. So it remains exciting for customers to see where and how many sharks they will discover in their new Opel model.

[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] The stated range was determined on the basis of 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 as well as thermal preconditioning.

Inspirational Women at Opel and Stellantis: Maike Seeber and Bilyana Stern Manage the Plants in Rüsselsheim and Kaiserslautern

• New Opel Astra ‘made in Germany’: Plant manager Seeber is proud of new model and the teams at Opel’s headquarters
• Dual role: Bilyana Stern leads Kaiserslautern site and press shop in Rüsselsheim
• Cooperative leadership style: Setting the framework, delegating responsibility, motivating teams to find solutions
• International Women’s Day on March 8: Diversity and equality have a long tradition at Opel

March 8 is International Women's Day. However, equality, diversity and inclusion are not only a top priority at Opel and Stellantis on this annual day of celebration. Instead, these principles are a fundamental part of the corporate culture and a prerequisite for the brands’ and companies’ success. This applies at all levels, from top management to the Women's Perspective Panels in development to production. This stated, Maike Seeber and Bilyana Stern hold key roles in the company.

Seeber has been plant manager in Rüsselsheim since last year and is therefore responsible for the production of the new Opel Astra, which celebrated its world premiere at the beginning of 2026 and has been available to order for a few weeks now. Elsewhere, Stern has a dual role: she manages the press shop in Rüsselsheim and, for the past year, has also been in charge of the Kaiserslautern site, Stellantis' largest component plant for numerous Stellantis brands and sites worldwide. The top priority for both plant managers is to ensure quality and competitiveness ‘made in Germany’. To achieve this, they focus on cooperation, empowerment and each employee’s own personal responsibility.

Precision: The interaction of people, processes and technology must work

For Maike Seeber, the Rüsselsheim plant and the new Opel Astra stand for what fascinates her about the automotive industry: the interaction of people, processes and technology – and a high-quality-vehicle that drives off the assembly line as the result. That is why she spends as much time as possible in the production halls. “To experience first-hand how design, technological innovations, industrial feasibility and the spirit of the Rüsselsheim team come together is something very special. This is precision work to the point,” she emphasises.

What is visible on the line also shapes the plant manager’s everyday work. Her schedule is tight, the topics diverse. The focus is on the ramp-up of the new Astra, with classic production topics determining everyday life: requirements for the supply chain, material availability and a wide range of variants – including the drivetrains. Like all Opel models, the Astra is produced as an all-electric car, hybrid and combustion engine vehicle on a single production line. This also means flexibility and specialist training for employees. “Logistics, which used to be much more stable, is particularly challenging,” says Seeber. “Today it is one of the most volatile areas.” Global supply chains, geopolitical risks and unforeseeable events have fundamentally changed the requirements. Logistics has long since ceased to be a pure planning issue, but a continuous coordination task – with a high level of responsibility for all parties involved.

‘Made in Germany’: Ensuring the quality and competitiveness of the sites

Thus, it is all the more reassuring when cooperation between the individual company locations and divisions runs smoothly. Bilyana Stern plays a key role in this, since she is very familiar with the specific requirements of both sites as head of the press shop in Rüsselsheim and plant manager in Kaiserslautern. “From Kaiserslautern, we supply more than 20 Stellantis sites worldwide. Components from here are used in over 30 models from seven Stellantis brands, giving the site a central role within the company. Our priority is to ensure exemplary quality and thus competitiveness – despite high wages and energy costs in Germany. Because ‘made in Germany’ is important to us. A major goal is to create synergies – for example, through centralised functions for the German plants."

Seeber agrees: For her, the sites are perfect examples of what ‘made in Germany’ must stand for today: high-quality, competitive, efficient and technologically leading production under demanding conditions. Thus, the Rüsselsheim plant is flexibly positioned. At the same time, Opel is increasingly focusing on vertical integration. Work that would previously have been carried out by external service providers now takes place directly in the factory. One example of this is the battery shop, where the final assembly of the high-voltage batteries for all-electric vehicles takes place.

“I came to Rüsselsheim to take the opportunity to actively shape the future of production,” the 42-year-old adds. To successfully put this claim into practice, Seeber can rely on more than two decades of leadership and industry experience gained both nationally and internationally, mainly on the supplier side. “I know the supplier side and what is possible and what is not,” she says. “That helps me to make clear decisions even under demanding conditions.”

Leading cooperatively: Setting the framework, strengthening personal responsibility

The same applies to Bilyana Stern. The 36-year-old can also look back on a diverse international career that took her up to Kuala Lumpur and prepared her through various positions at different companies for the challenges at the multinational component plant in Kaiserslautern. “I have learned how important it is to make quick decisions. 70 per cent planning is enough, then it's time to implement. That still shapes my leadership style today: it's better to try things out and learn quickly than to wait for the perfect setup.”

Agility, efficiency and personal responsibility are important to Stern: “For me, it's about putting people first. I work very closely with my teams, on an equal footing. I demand a lot, but I also encourage a lot. I am present, address issues directly and, at the same time, want to motivate people to take bold decisions on their own responsibility that will move the company forward. For me, leadership means letting others grow, inspiring them and taking them with me on the journey.”

This kind of leadership – not simply making decisions over the heads of their employees but acting cooperatively – characterises both Stern and Seeber. The Rüsselsheim plant manager also focuses on empowerment instead of micromanagement, describing it as follows: “I want the teams to develop solutions themselves. My job is to set the framework and not to take every decision myself.” Especially in a complex environment, it is crucial to transfer responsibility and create learning spaces.

Focus on young talents: Diverse, having equal rights, driven by enthusiasm

„The team shines with a lot of commitment, heart and soul and it lives change,” says Seeber, reporting on her daily experiences. With a view to the future, the plant manager emphasises the importance of the next generation being actively trained at all German sites. Young employees contribute new skills – for example in the areas of artificial intelligence, 3D printing or process automation. Today, for example, the 3D printer is used in the plant to produce tools that would have been outsourced in the past. „This makes it all the more important to give young people confidence at an early age and to give them creative freedom,” says Seeber. And Bilyana Stern adds with regard to women: “Many women often have the feeling that ‘I have to be perfect before I apply.’ But that is nonsense. We just need to show more courage!”

Sharper, Bolder, More Modern: New Opel Astra is Ready to Order

• Real highlights: Compact class bestseller for the first time with new Opel Vizor design and illuminated Blitz emblem as well as latest IntelliLux HD lighting technology
• Relaxing journey: Intelli-Seats with ergonomic feature standard in all variants
• Extended range: New Opel Astra Electric with a range of up to 454 kilometres (WLTP 1)
• Freedom of choice: From battery-electric to plug-in hybrid to efficient combustion engine

Stable prices, more benefits: Opel Astra Electric available to order from €37,990, entry-level Opel Astra Hybrid starts at €32,990 (all prices RRP incl. Vat in Germany)

Just a few weeks ago, the new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer celebrated their world premiere at the Brussels Motor Show, and now the modernised and further sharpened versions of the compact class bestsellers are available to order. Best of all, the new Opel Astra – which is designed, developed and built at Opel's headquarters in Rüsselsheim – boasts innovative technologies, even more comfort and an even more distinctive appearance, yet the price remains the same. Customers even get more car for their money: Opel Astra Electric is still available from €37,990 and Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric from €39,490 (all prices RRP incl. VAT in Germany), but equipped with a 58 kWh battery the all-electric car offers more capacity and with up to 454 kilometres (according to WLTP 1) more locally emissions-free range than before. Elsewhere, customers can drive their own Opel Astra starting from €32,990 with the electrified hybrid version with 107 kW (145 hp) system output.

“With its new design, technology and comfort highlights such as the illuminated Opel Blitz on the front and Intelli-Seats as standard even in the entry-level version, we are taking our compact class bestseller to the next level. Furthermore, we are ensuring the affordability of the Opel Astra regardless of the drivetrain by prices remaining the same! We are making our customers an offer they can't refuse,” said Patrick Dinger, Head of Opel Germany.

Appealing in every respect: Opel Astra with illuminated Opel Blitz and sharpened Vizor

Even at first glance, the new Opel Astra appears more modern, sharper and even more distinctive with its refined Opel DNA. The Opel Blitz brand emblem sits centrally in the even narrower and more precisely designed Opel Vizor – and, following its introduction in the top-of-the-range Opel Grandland SUV, it is now illuminated for the first time in the Astra. Furthermore, the front design shows elements of the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo, bringing the first features of the concept car celebrated at the IAA Mobility last autumn to life in series production. And new rim designs for the 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels are just as eye-catching as the new metallic paints ‘Kontur White’ and ‘Klover Green’.

As a real highlight and unique in the compact class, the award-winning IntelliLux HD light with more than 50,000 elements is now available as an option for Astra drivers, illuminating the road at night to suit each situation at any time. The high-resolution lighting technology not only ensures that other road users are not glared, it also is easy on the eyes of the Opel Astra driver. The system detects traffic signs and dims the LEDs so that the reflection from the signs does not dazzle the driver. IntelliLux HD is already included as standard in the new top-of-the-range ‘Ultimate’ trim.

Feel-good atmosphere: Pure cockpit, precise displays, comfortable Intelli-Seats

The Opel Astra engineers have also further optimised the interior. The measures range from the cockpit and display design to travel comfort with enhanced feel-good factor. This is because the so-called Intelli-Seats are standard in every model variant. They are characterised by a special recess running in the middle of the seat, which reduces pressure on the tailbone. Thus, the patented Intelli-Seat ergonomics feature ensures relaxed driving comfort even on long drives. From the GS trim onwards, the driver's seat also bears the AGR seal of approval (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. / Campaign for healthy backs), and in the optional ReNewKnit™ version, both the driver's and front passenger’s seats are AGR certified.

At the same time, the cockpit and user interfaces for multimedia infotainment and other features have been made even clearer, more concise and more intuitive. New visualisations and graphics on the screens give the interior a more modern look. In terms of practicality, the driver can now read them even easier than before. And in line with Opel's ‘Greenovation’ approach, numerous resource-saving materials and surface structures are used in the Astra's interior: the steering wheel is completely covered with vegan materials, and the optional seat covers are made of ReNewKnit™, a special mono-material offering a high-quality suede leather look.

Highly efficient drives: Opel Astra Electric with range of up to 454 kilometres 

Conserving resources was also a key focus in the further development of the electrified drive portfolio. The 115 kW (156 hp) Opel Astra Electric with a 58 kWh battery now enables a locally emissions-free range of up to 454 kilometres (WLTP 1) – allowing Astra Electric drivers to travel around 35 kilometres further than before between charging stops.

Also new and extremely practical: The all-electric Opel Astra offers V2L – Vehicle to Load – for the first time and thus the possibility of charging external devices such as e-bikes or the like at the holiday destination without having to rely on other power sources. And to make the switch to electromobility even more attractive, customers also benefit from numerous advantages of the Opel ‘Electric All In’3 programme when buying a new Opel Astra Electric.

Those who want to travel in the new Opel Astra in a highly efficient but partially electrified manner can choose between a hybrid variant with 107 kW (145 hp) starting at €32,990 or a plug-in hybrid with 144 kW (196 hp) system output starting at €38,460. Priced from €34,640, the 96 kW (130 hp) 1.5-litre diesel rounds off the broad drive portfolio, which is designed to meet every need.

All this stated, Opel Astra customers can continue to rely on the proven strengths of the compact class bestseller. Depending on the variant, up to 1,339 litres of luggage can fit into the boot of the hatchback with the seats folded down. Opel Astra Sports Tourer offers a load volume of up to a maximum of 1,634 litres. In addition, the rear seat backrest in the compact-class estate can be flexibly folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio.

[1] The stated range was determined on the basis of 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 as well as 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.

[3] Offer for private customers when purchasing a fully electric passenger car from participating Opel partners in Germany by December 31, 2025.