The Zaragoza factory closed 2017 with 382,425 vehicles, 6% more than the previous year.
An improvement achieved thanks to the launch of two new models: Opel Crossland X and Citroen C3 Aircross.
Fifth
consecutive year in which the Aragonese plant increases its production
and, therefore, improves the utilization of its productive capacity.
Final assembly at Zaragoza plant
The
Zaragoza plant, which since August belongs to the Groupe PSA and is for
the first time in its history a multi-brand plant, produced 382,425
vehicles in 2017: 196,424 Opel Corsa, 17,910 Opel Meriva (model that
manufactured until March 2017), 68,172 Opel Mokka X, 62,885 Opel Crossland X and 37,034 Citröen C3 Aircross.
For
the fifth consecutive year, the Aragonese plant has managed to increase
its production volumes thanks to the allocations and the launch of new
models. Undoubtedly, an important recovery and improvement towards the objective of full use of its productive capacity (480,000 units).
Opel Corsa, Opel Mokka X, Opel Crossland X and Citröen C3 Aircross from Zaragoza multi-brand plant.
Currently the Zaragoza plant, using 80% of its installed capacity,
manufactures the following models: Opel Corsa 5 doors, 3 doors and Van,
Opel Crossland X, Opel Mokka X and Citröen
C3 Aircross (including LPG, or CNG versions).
In
2017, 89% of the vehicles produced in Zaragoza were exported to other
countries mainly European and the remaining 11% went to the Spanish
market. Among its main export countries are: Germany, Italy, United Kingdom, France and Belgium.
Online: Wi-Fi Hotspotand new infotainment systems with smartphone integration
Relaxing: New ergonomic cockpit and lounge comfort for up to seven people
Innovative: New adaptive safety lighting system AFL LED turns night into day
Bold: Sculptural chrome bar and new double wing LED Daytime Running Lights
New Opel Zafira
Ever since Opel introduced its revolutionary integrated seven-seat system in the compact van segment in 1999, the Opel Zafira has been characterized by a unique blend of exceptional versatility and optimum comfort. Opel has sold 2.7 million units of the Zafira, mainly to families and professionals who need a spacious and flexible vehicle for travelling long distances in high comfort.
New Opel Zafira rolls out to dealerships in September
The new Opel Zafira can now be ordered for the attractive entry-level price of €21,990 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). And when it rolls out to dealerships in September, it won’t only be counting on the tried and true optional qualities of its predecessor such as the Flex7 seating system, the AGR-certified ergonomic front seats (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. – Campaign for Healthier Backs), the FlexFix bicycle carrier or the adaptive FlexRide chassis – the new Opel Zafira also features a new, bold exterior design and a re-designed interior with an especially spacious ambience and superb connectivity. Depending on the end device, Opel’s newest-generation IntelliLink infotainment system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, available as standard or as an option depending on the trim, turns the new Opel Zafira into a mobile 4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot for driver, friends and family1. And for the first time in this vehicle class, Opel offers the latest-generation Adaptive Forward Lighting AFL with Full LED technology as an option. This all makes the new Opel Zafira a comfortable travelling lounge for driver and passengers.
Quality you can see: Sporty exterior design and first-class interior
New Opel Zafira - The sculptural chrome logo bar optically blends into the headlights, giving the car a wider look
The dynamic headlamp design together with the markedly sportier grille set the tone for the Zafira’s fresh design. Its front headlamps melt into the radiator grille to form a graphic unity. The sculptural chrome logo bar optically blends into the headlights, giving the car a wider look. The new typical Opel double chrome wing Daytime Running Lights – the upper one doubles as an LED blinker – add to the striking impression the new Opel Zafira makes with its solid, sporty and dynamic front design.
New typical Opel double chrome wing Daytime Running Lights – The upper one doubles as an LED blinker
“The new Zafira’s front design takes over key features from the new, award-winning Opel Astra and is an integral part of Opel’s model portfolio. The chiseled double wing Daytime Running Lights bring sophistication that also flows into the interior. With the completely redesigned instrument panel, the cockpit is clearer, tidier and more user-friendly,” says Mark Adams, Vice President GM Europe Design.
New Opel Zafira - Completely redesigned instrument panel
The new, elegant cockpit design gives driver and front passenger optimum forward visibility. All important functions such as the display and operating controls are comfortably within the driver’s reach zone. While the infotainment system’s display was located above the center console before, it has been replaced by a touchscreen in the new Opel Zafira cockpit and integrated lower down in the center console. At the same time, designers were able to reduce the number of buttons and switches in the cockpit. The high-quality 7-inch touchscreen makes a premium impression. The new, three-dimensionally sculptured steering wheel with the small and efficiently packaged airbag cover not only looks great, it is also extremely ergonomic.
New Opel Zafira - Elegant cockpit with Navi 950 IntelliLink infotainment
Opel offers the new Zafira with two latest-generation IntelliLink infotainment systems – both with a 7-inch color touchscreen. The R4.0 IntelliLink system brings the world of smartphones into the travelling lounge and is, depending on the end device compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navi 950 IntelliLink is ideal for customers looking for an infotainment system with on-board navigation. Opel OnStar is also on board. The personal connectivity and service assistant protects passengers with Automatic Crash Response and many other features. Together with Navi 950, it also offers destination download. And Opel OnStar also turns the new Zafira into a 4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot (market-dependent). Up to seven devices – one for each passenger – can be connected to the car network.
New Opel Zafira - R4.0 IntelliLink with 7-inch color touchscreen and Apple CarPlay & Android Auto support
Top combination: Highest flexibility meets airy lounge atmosphere
As in the previous Opel Zafira generations, driver and passengers can also enjoy relaxing journeys in the optional AGR-certified ergonomic seats. The multi-functional FlexRail center console on aluminum rails offers flexible storage modules between the front seats.
Passengers in the second row can enjoy the cabin transformation into a spacious and comfortable lounge. Thanks to a clever folding mechanism, the back of the middle seat folds down and rotates to offer comfortable armrests for the outer seats. These also slide to the rear and towards the center of the vehicle, enabling the lounge seating system to provide the especially generous leg and shoulder room of a premium-class sedan. The third row of seats can also be folded down flush with the floor of the luggage compartment, thus creating a level load surface. Personal comfort is top priority: Opel designers have turned the flexible interior into a lounge to relax and enjoy the spacious atmosphere, be it on a business trip or a vacation.
The optional panorama windscreen and panorama sunroof increase comfort and the sense of space even more. The windscreen stretches from the engine hood almost to the B-pillar, giving driver and front passenger a sweeping, unobstructed view upwards. The panorama sunroof reaches from the windscreen to the rear of the car, enhancing the interior’s light and airy lounge atmosphere.
It fits: Intelligent storage solutions
But the new Opel Zafira offers much more than “just” an extremely comfortable way to travel. The travelling lounge can easily double as a small transporter. In a 5-seat configuration, according to ISO 3832 the Zafira can carry a minimum load volume of 710 liters that can be increased 1,860 liters by folding down the second-row seats.
Furthermore, Opel Zafira features more than 30 storage possibilities. The optional FlexFixbicycle carrier integrated in the rear end is extremely practical. It slides out of the rear bumper like a drawer and can accommodate up to four bicycles (with a total weight of 80 kilograms). As the loaded bicycle carrier can be tilted back, the tailgate can still be opened even when FlexFix is fully loaded.
Top technologies on board: Innovative, safe, individually adjustable, dynamic
Elsewhere, Opel engineers again implemented the company strategy of making innovative technologies available to a broad group of buyers with the next generation of Adaptive Forward Lighting AFL with Full LED technology. The new AFL LED system automatically adapts the lighting patterns of the headlamps to the driving situation so that the optimum light performance is always given. The system features nine different functions/lighting patterns including town and country light as well as a tourist mode and stop mode light (eco). The latter, for example, activates the energy-saving mode when stopped at a red light.
The newest version of the Opel Eye front camera supports many driver assistance systems including the AFL LED lighting system’s High Beam Assist (HBA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). Following Distance Indication (FDI) also utilizes the front camera to detect moving vehicles ahead, while Forward Collision Alert (FCA) provides visible and audible caution alerts when the distance between the Zafira and the vehicle ahead diminishes too quickly. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) is activated automatically at speeds over 60 km/h and warns the driver with a telltale in the instrument panel and an audible warning if the car unintentionally leaves its lane.
Two other features in the new Opel Zafira that increase comfort and reduce stress are Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and the FlexRide chassis. Using radar sensors located behind the front grille, Adaptive Cruise Control helps the driver to maintain the selected speed while keeping a pre-set distance to the vehicle ahead. In addition to speed, the driver can also select the distance from three available options: far, medium, near. Based on the driver’s personal preferences, the adaptive mechatronic FlexRide chassis continuously adapts to driving style and situation.
New Opel Zafira -Sport and Tour switch for FlexRide chassis
Performance range: Driving fun with gasoline, diesel, LPG or CNG
Opel Zafira buyers also have a large range of engines to choose from, as the new Opel Zafira will be the only vehicle in its class offering the entire spectrum of powertrains. This encompasses gasoline, diesel, liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas units with outputs from 88 kW/120 hp to 147 kW/200 hp (Fuel consumption urban 11.7-6.1 l/100 km, extra-urban 7.7-4.2 l/100 km, combined 9.2-4.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 182-129 g/km (according to Regulation (EC) No 715/2007); energy efficiency class D-A in Germany). The top-of-the-line engine in the Zafira portfolio is the 147 kW/200 hp 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo. With maximum torque of 280 Nm, it accelerates the compact van from zero to 100 km/h in just 8.8 seconds and takes it to a top speed of 220 km/h. The powerhouse masters the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear in just 8.3 seconds (Fuel consumption with six-speed manual transmission, Start/Stop and low-rolling-resistance tires urban 8.4 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.9 l/100 km, combined 6.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 160 g/km (according to Regulation (EC) No 715/2007); energy efficiency class C in Germany).
Online: New infotainment systems with phone integration and Wi-Fi hotspot
Relaxing: New ergonomic cockpit and versatile lounge seats for up to seven passengers
Innovative: New Adaptive Forward Lighting LED headlamps turn night to day
Characteristic: Sculptural chrome logo bar and double wing’ daytime running lights
In addition to optimum connectivity featuring Opel OnStar and new IntelliLink infotainment systems, the new Opel Zafira also offers AFL LED headlamps.
A unique blend of exceptional versatility and optimum comfort has characterized the Opel Zafira ever since the Rüsselsheim-based company revealed its revolutionary integrated seven-seat system in the compact van segment in 1999. Opel has sold around 2.7 million units of the Zafira since, mainly to families and professionals who need a spacious and flexible vehicle for travelling long distances in high comfort. Soon available for sale and delivered as of September, the new Zafira will not only shine with all of the well-known virtues of its predecessors such as the Flex7® seating system, ergonomically-certified AGR front seats, the FlexFix® bicycle carrier or FlexRide adaptive damping – it also comes with an attractive new exterior and interior design that emphasizes the spacious ambience and an outstanding connectivity offering. Latest generation Opel IntelliLink infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility along with Opel OnStar (including 4G/LTE Wi-Fi hotspot where available) make sure the Zafira offers optimum connectivity to you, your friends or family while on the road. Furthermore, Opel will introduce Full LED Adaptive Forward Lighting headlamps to the segment – to make the classy new Zafira in total a comfortable travelling lounge for its driver as well as its passengers.
New Opel Zafira impresses with a dynamic, sporty exterior design and the latest generation technology under the skin.
Sporty exterior, up-market interior
The dynamic new headlamp design together with a completely new, more markedly sporty upper and lower grille set the tone for the design of the new Zafira. The front headlamps melt into the radiator grille to form a graphic unity. The sculptural chrome logo bar blends optically into the headlights enhancing the impression of width. In addition, the typical, precisely chiseled ‘Opel double wing’ daytime running lights characterize the new light cluster design. The wheels are housed under a muscular wheel arch. All of this gives the new Zafira front a solid, sporty and dynamic appearance.
“The front design of the new Zafira takes over the major characteristics of the one of the award winning new Astra, and anchors it in Opel’s new portfolio. Its sharp, precise double-winged daytime running lights convey a new level of sophistication, which is also reflected in the interior by a completely redesigned instrument panel. It is purer, clearer and easier to use,” said Mark Adams, Vice-President, GM Europe Design.
Opel double wing’ daytime running lights characterize the new light cluster design
On the inside, the new Zafira comes with a completely redesigned cockpit, now with a simpler, more elegant layout. The new design not only optimizes forward visibility, but also ensures the display and controls all sit within an optimal reach zone. The screen of the infotainment system that used to sit at the top of the center console has been replaced with a new, lower and integrated touchscreen that allowed for many buttons to be eliminated. The switches are now integrated precisely into the overall design. Framed by a galvanized u-shaped décor, the new 7 inch up-level touchscreen systems have been executed with quality inspired by top-of-the-range tablets. The new, three-dimensionally sculptured steering wheel with the small and efficiently packaged airbag cover is designed to not only look great, but to also put ergonomics in the forefront.
Controls of the new Opel Zafira are easy to reach in the neatly arranged, elegant cockpit.
Opel will offer two latest generation IntelliLink infotainment systems for the new Zafira. R4.0 IntelliLink will bring the world of smartphones to the travelling lounge, offering both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Furthermore, Opel will offer Navi 950 IntelliLink for customers looking for an infotainment system with on-board navigation. And of course, in addition, Opel OnStar is available in the new Zafira with Automatic Crash Response and many other features including Destination Download (with Navi 950) and 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot where available (enables connecting up to seven devices, one for each of the seven persons onboard). This results in a real plus for family travels or professionals who want to stay as connected as possible during their travels.
A friendly advisor from the connectivity and service assistant, Opel OnStar, is available at the push of a button in the rearview mirror of the New Opel Zafira.
Benchmark versatility combined with airy lounge atmosphere
Just like in the previous Zafira generations, the driver and passenger can look forward to a relaxing drive thanks to the optional 6-way adjustable ergonomically certified AGR sport seats and the multi-functional FlexRail® console system. This modular storage system includes a large storage box and cup-holders that slide on aluminum rails to the desired position, enabling flexible use of the generous storage space between the front seats – exactly where it is most accessible and useful. Passengers in the second row can enjoy the unique, optional Lounge Seating system. Thanks to a clever folding mechanism, the back of the middle seat in the second row folds down and rotates to offer comfortable armrests for the passengers in the outer seats. These also slide to the rear and towards the center of the vehicle, providing especially generous leg and shoulder room, and the comfortable seating space of a premium-class sedan. Furthermore, third-row seats can be folded down flush with the floor of the luggage compartment, thus creating a level load surface. This emphasis on personal comfort makes the Zafira much more than just a family vehicle – Opel designers have turned the flexible interior into a place to relax and enjoy the spacious atmosphere, be it on a business trip or a vacation.
New Opel Zafira offers an optional panorama sunroof for an especially bright and airy ambience.
The feeling of comfort and space proposed by the new Zafira becomes even more impressive when combined with the optional panoramic windscreen and sunroof. The windscreen stretches from the engine hood up to near the B-pillar. The view upwards for the front occupants is there as unrestricted as possible. In addition, the panoramic sunroof flows directly out of the windscreen and stretches all the way to the rear of the vehicle. This boosts the light, airy lounge atmosphere throughout the interior.
Clever stowage solutions
But the new Opel Zafira offers much more than “just” an extremely comfortable way to travel. The travelling lounge can easily double as a small transporter. In a 5-seat configuration, the Zafira can carry according to ISO 3832 a minimum load volume of 710 liters (increasing to 1,860 liters when the second-row seats are folded down).
Furthermore, it features more than 30 storage possibilities, including the aforementioned FlexRail® center console. Additionally, the FlexFix® rear-end carrier system offers an easy-to-use and practical solution for cycling enthusiasts. The integrated system slides out of the rear bumper like a drawer and can accommodate up to four bicycles. As the loaded bicycle carrier can be tilted, the tailgate can still be opened even when FlexFix is fully loaded.
Innovative, safe, customizable, dynamic
Elsewhere, Opel engineers have once again followed Opel’s strategy of making innovative technology available to a broad group of buyers by introducing new Adaptive Forward Lighting Full LED headlamps. The new AFL LED system automatically adapts the lighting patterns of the headlamps to the driving situation so that the optimum light performance is given without dazzling other drivers. It features nine different functions/lighting patterns such as town light, country light, a curve and cornering function, backing-up maneuvering light, a stop mode light (eco) and tourist mode.
New Opel Zafira brings the latest generation of AFL LED Adaptive Forward Lighting to the compact van market segment for the first time.
Furthermore, the new generation of the Opel Eye front camera has a positive impact on all the driver assistance functions it supports, including the High Beam Assist (HBA) of the AFL Full LED lighting system and the Traffic Sign Assistant (TSA). Following Distance Indication (FDI) also utilizes the front camera to detect moving vehicles ahead, whereas Forward Collision Alert (FCA) provides visible and audible caution alerts when the distance between the car and the vehicle ahead diminishes too quickly. Lane Departure Warning is activated automatically at speeds over 60 km/h and warns the driver, in case the lane is left unintentionally with a telltale in the instrument panel and an audible warning.
New generation of the Opel Eye front camera has a positive impact on all the driver assistance functions it supports, including the High Beam Assist (HBA) of the AFL Full LED lighting system
Two further features available in the new Opel Zafira that increase comfort and reduce stress are Adaptive Cruise Control and FlexRide. Enabled by a radar located behind the front grille, the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) helps the driver to maintain the selected speed while keeping a pre-set distance to the vehicle ahead. In addition to speed, the desired gap to the vehicle ahead can also be selected by the driver – with three options available: far, medium, near. Elsewhere, the adaptive mechatronic FlexRide chassis continuously adapts vehicle behavior to the driving situation, driving style and the individual preferences of the driver. Potential Zafira buyers will also have a large choice of engines. Opel will maintain its current strategy of ensuring that the new Zafira is the only vehicle in its segment with a complete propulsion offering consisting of dynamic gasoline, diesel, LPG and CNG engines.
As in 2014, independent institute Ökotrend rates Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CNG ecoFlex Number 1
Most environmentally friendly van 2015: Opel Zafira Tourer successfully defends its title and once again wins its class with the low-emission and ultra-economical 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX engine.
Opel can already look forward to its first award in 2015. In their „Auto Test Winner in Green“ competition, the environmental institute Ökotrend and the trade magazine Auto Test have chosen the Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFlex the most environmentally friendly vehicle in the van segment for the second year in a row. The compact seven-seater featuring an airy lounge atmosphere wins its class with the low-emission and ultra-economical 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX engine under its hood. CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) gives particularly clean combustion in the innovative Opel four-cylinder engine.
Extremely efficient: With fuel consumption of just 4.7 kilograms high-grade natural gas per 100 kilometers over the combined cycle, the Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX emits only 129 g/km CO2.
With fuel consumption of just 4.7 kilograms (7.2 m3) high-grade natural gas per 100 kilometers over the combined cycle, the 110 kw/150 hp Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX model emits only 129 g/km CO2, which earns it the German A energy efficiency label.
Long-distance runner: Economical consumption combined with a tank volume of 25 kilograms enable a driving range of up to 530 kilometers in pure CNG operation.
Opel is a recognized pioneer in the advancement of alternative propulsion concepts. More than a decade ago, in 2001, the automaker presented its first compressed natural gas vehicle concept with monovalentplus technology. Opel’s CNG ecoFLEX engines are optimized to run on natural gas, biogas or any combination of the two, as well as gasoline. CNG and biogas cost considerably less than gasoline or diesel, and in terms of kilometers driven, are even cheaper than liquefied petroleum gas. Good reasons for many customers to use these naturally occurring fuels. In Germany, the government has introduced a tax benefit regulation for the use of natural gas as a fuel until 2018. This recognizes its environmental friendliness because natural gas vehicles emit up to 25 percent less CO2, up to 80 percent less nitrogen and are free of benzol and soot particles. If 100 percent biogas is used as fuel, the vehicle’s carbon footprint is almost zero.
Opel’s CNG ecoFLEX engines are optimized to run on natural gas, biogas or any combination of the two, as well as gasoline.
Independent institute Ökotrend rates Zafira Tourer MPV 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX Number 1
Most environmentally friendly van 2014: The Opel Zafira Tourer MPV wins its class with the low-emission and ultra-economical 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX engine
Opel has already won its first award in 2014! The environmental institute Ökotrend and the trade magazine Auto Test have chosen the Opel Zafira Tourer MPV the Most Environmentally Friendly Van 2014. Half of the assessment consists of vehicle operation (focusing on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, emissions standards, noise development), while the other half is based on the vehicle’s production and manufacturer. Opel’s popular van wins its class with the low-emission and ultra-economical 1.6 CNG (compressed natural gas) Turbo ecoFLEX engine. CNG gives particularly clean combustion in the innovative Opel four-cylinder turbo engine.
Long-distance runner: Economical consumption combined with a tank volume of 25 kilograms enable a driving range of up to 530 kilometers in pure CNG operation.
With fuel consumption of just 4.7 kilograms (7.2 m3) high-grade natural gas per 100 kilometers over the combined cycle, the 110 kw/150 hp Opel Zafira Tourer MPV 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX model emits only 129 g/km CO2 – values that benefit both the environment and the owner. Economical consumption combined with a tank volume of 25 kilograms (144 liters) enable a driving range of up to 530 kilometers in pure CNG operation.
Eco angel: With fuel consumption of just 4.7 kilograms high-grade natural gas per 100 kilometers over the combined cycle, the Opel Zafira Tourer MPV 1.6 CNG Turbo ecoFLEX emits only 129 g/km CO2.
Opel is a recognized pioneer in the advancement of alternative propulsion concepts. More than a decade ago, in 2001, the automaker presented its first compressed natural gas vehicle concept with innovative monovalentplus technology. Opel’s CNG ecoFLEX engines are optimized to run on natural gas, biogas or any combination of the two, as well as gasoline. CNG and biogas cost considerably less than gasoline or diesel, and in terms of kilometers driven, are even cheaper than liquefied petroleum gas. Good reasons for many customers to use these naturally occurring fuels. In Germany, the government has introduced a tax benefit regulation for the use of natural gas as a fuel until 2018. This recognizes its environmental friendliness because natural gas vehicles emit up to 25 percent less CO2, up to 80 percent less nitrogen and are free of benzol and soot particles. If 100 percent biogas is used as fuel, the vehicle’s carbon footprint is almost zero.
Visionary: Monza Concept gives outlook for Opel brand strategy at IAA
Efficient: Perfect use of space, lightweight design, innovative powertrains
Connected: Revolutionary infotainment with LED projection technology
Inspiring: Monza Concept shows new interpretation of sculptural Opel design
A light, athletic look outside, unique projection technology inside
combined with custom connectivity and modular design that enables
sustainable propulsion systems par excellence – the Opel Monza Concept
is stylish, ultra-modern efficiency on four wheels. It is the role-model
for the next generation of Opel cars. The groundbreaking concept car
makes its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in
Frankfurt from September 12 - 22 (press days: September 10 - 11) and
shows what people can expect from Opel in the future.
“The Monza Concept represents the Opel car of tomorrow”, says Opel
CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “On one hand, it embodies everything that
already characterizes Opel – German precision combined with innovative
technologies wrapped in captivating design. In addition, it addresses
the themes that will be the development-focus of the next generation of
Opel cars: maximum connectivity and optimum efficiency.”
“Connectivity is demonstrated by a trailblazing LED projection
technology for instrument and infotainment displays. Efficiency comes in
many ways, with lightweight design, optimal use of interior space, and
advanced powertrain technology. The Monza Concept is based on increasing
electrification of the automobile in everyday driving, from
range-extender to fuel cell. And as far as styling is concerned, we are
expressing pure efficiency in a new, lean and athletic interpretation of
our typical sculptural shapes. The Opel Monza Concept is nothing less
than our vision of the automotive future.”
Lightness: Styling conveys athletic efficiency rather than pure muscle power
An Opel Monza already made its world premiere at the IAA back in
1977: it was a large coupé with a silky smooth-running six-cylinder
engine. The Monza was in production until 1986 and has long since
belonged to the elite circle of iconic cars. The new Monza Concept now
follows in its wheel-tracks: The beautifully shaped hood with the
distinctive center fold continues the tradition of the Monza front with
the typical Opel crease. The large boomerang shaped air intakes in front
of the wheel arches complement the elegant chrome bar that proudly
holds the brand logo.
With the Opel Monza Concept, the designers in Mark Adams’ team introduce a
new interpretation of the sculptural design that first went into
production with the Opel Insignia. Selected distinctive lines, high-precision
design and perfect sweeping contours remain the core of the evolving
design philosophy called “Sculptural artistry meets German precision.”
But a new, athletic allure demonstrates the car’s overall efficiency.
“This is the next bold step along our journey into the future, but at
the same time we show that we have established a consistent design in
which people can build trust”, says Mark Adams, Head of Opel Design.
The sculptural surfaces of the 4.69 meter-long, four seat Opel Monza
Concept are modeled after ocean waves lapping on the shore. These
flowing surfaces give a look of lightness, dramatically underlined by
the side-sills that taper off in front of the rear wheel arches. This
unique styling element is inspired by the lean physique and slim waist
of a greyhound dog, running as if on tip-toes with powerful elegance.
The design of the Opel Monza Concept’s body sides enables easy entry and
egress for front and rear-seat passengers, while underscoring the
prominent, sporty rear wheel arches, which share the same width as the
front.
The Opel Monza Concept’s roof line is particularly sophisticated – at
first it runs in a semicircular form like a classic coupé’s, but then
just before reaching the tailgate it sweeps slightly upwards. In spite
of its sporty look and flat silhouette with a height of just 1.31
meters, there is neither loss of space in the luggage compartment – 500
liters in volume – nor constrained headroom for the passengers. This is
due to the fact that the whole cockpit structure is around 15
centimeters lower than in conventional models. Actually, the
Opel Monza
Concept offers the same airy passenger compartment as a mid-size car.
The expansive doors provide maximum functionality with spectacular
views when opening. They swing up like the outstretched wings of a
condor and offer an unobstructed view of the spacious, open passenger
cabin (or the surroundings from the inside) thanks to the absence of a
B-pillar.
Connectivity: Efficient and well-connected into the automotive future
Efficiency and connectivity are the main focus of development in
focus for next generation of Opel models. The Opel Monza Concept offers a
fascinating preview of these developments. Once behind the wheel, the Opel Monza Concept whisks you away into a completely new and unique world of
instruments and infotainment. The original Opel Monza was also way ahead of
its time 35 years ago with a digital display in the cockpit.
The Opel Monza Concept continues innovating with state-of-the-art LED
projection technology. Drivers no longer find the conventional
individual, separate monitors that display different information;
instead, they face a wide, sculpted dashboard that sweeps from door to
door, and is used as a single projection surface. Information and
decorative elements are displayed on the surface, which the driver can
customize according to his needs, taste or mood. A total of 18 LED
projectors create a continuous, adaptable multi-functional display. This
is a world premiere in an automobile. Already established in the events
arena, this technology has caused a sensation at major occasions such
as Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee, and Opel designers were first to think of
implementing it in a passenger car. The 3D graphics are impressive, and
reflect all important functions from precise vehicle and driver
information to internet and communication options as well as decorative
elements. Both the area displaying information and the background can be
individually configured, and operation is via voice control and
steering wheel controls.
Efficiency and clarity are also priorities here: when it came to how
the displays present information, Opel engineers focused on the best and
most personal way to make relevant data available to the driver. The
approach was “simplifying the multitude” and so details on the car, the
navigation and the smartphone settings and connection only appear when
necessary or desired. So drivers can use a wide range of information
without being overwhelmed by text or images. This also makes the Monza
Concept a model of future HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) systems, as its
interior design is based on latest research findings in this field.
This also applies to the comprehensive smartphone connectivity in the Opel Monza Concept. With three worlds of connectivity – called ME, US and ALL
– drivers can focus solely on their driving experience, or get in touch
with friends and family or even connect to the whole internet
community. With ME the infotainment system virtually
disconnects the drivers’ smartphone and prioritizes the information
relevant for the driving experience. US enables the
passengers of the Opel Monza Concept to connect with a group of selected
people such as friends and family members: these can log-in to the car’s
infotainment system with their own communication device and exchange
information, music and images, chat and make appointments, etc. ALL goes beyond US.
It allows the driver and virtually the whole outside world to connect.
Drivers can for example spontaneously share their planned route online
over a tablet or smartphone so that people can catch a ride with them
along the way – enabling a new kind of instant car-sharing. With this
trailblazing infotainment and connectivity technology, the Monza Concept
shows how far ahead Opel designers and engineers are thinking, so that
the next generation of cars make their contribution to a harmonious,
connected society
The trendsetting sensor and connectivity technology in the Monza
Concept has even more to offer: it gives a preview of the advancements
in “Car-to-Car” and “Car-to-X” systems – prerequisites for future
autonomous driving and areas in which the research department at Opel is
already intensively working. By comprehensively connecting road users,
intercommunication can be enhanced, as can safety, because dangerous
traffic situations are registered earlier and more accurately than
before.
Flexibility: Modular design for powertrain-diversity
The Monza Concept is based on a modular design to allow
highest-possible flexibility when selecting a propulsion system. A
variety of sustainable powertrains based on increasing electrification
of the automobile are conceivable. For the Monza Concept to be displayed
at the Frankfurt show, engineers conceived an electric drive with a CNG
(Compressed Natural Gas) range extender – a further development of the
Ampera’s pioneering technology. The new-generation three-cylinder 1.0
SIDI turbo – which also makes its premiere at the IAA – takes over the
task as range extender. But it does so with natural gas instead of
gasoline, further improving the car’s CO2 footprint. With its
visionary approach, Opel continues to combine the potential of electric
propulsion with the benefits of the internal combustion engine.
“We have a clear vision of how Opel cars will be in the future, and
we have a clear strategy of how we will achieve this goal. The Opel Monza
Concept gives this strategy an unmistakable identity,” says Dr.
Karl-Thomas Neumann. “It embodies what our customers can expect from us
within the next years; not only in terms of design, but also in terms of
efficiency and connectivity between drivers and the internet community.
So it already anticipates future everyday automotive life, and serves
as an important source of inspiration on the road to that destination –
and not just for Opel.”
