Christian Müller appointed new Head of Powertrain & Chassis Engineering for the Groupe PSA

• Christian Müller, current Opel R&D chief, succeeds Alain Raposo at Groupe PSA level with the same responsibilities
• Marcus Lott to follow Christian Müller as Vice President Opel/Vauxhall Engineering

Christian Müller

Christian Müller, currently Managing Director Engineering Opel Automobile GmbH has been appointed new Head of Powertrain & Chassis Engineering of Groupe PSA effective August 1. He will report to Nicolas Morel, EVP Research & Development. He will succeed Alain Raposo who has served in this position since May 2018. Alain Raposo has chosen to leave Groupe PSA voluntarily at the end of August 2020 in order to pursue a personal project.

Marcus Lott, Vice President Body in White, Equipment & Materials Engineering and an Opel/Vauxhall engineer since 1994, will become the new head for R&D of the German and British brands and member of the Managing Board of Opel Automobile GmbH effective August 1.

Nicolas Morel, Executive Vice President Research & Development of Groupe PSA said: “I am delighted to work even closer with Christian Müller who is a leading and recognized powertrain expert in the automotive industry. And I congratulate Marcus Lott on his new position. With his many years of engineering experience, he will make a decisive contribution to successfully developing further the Opel/Vauxhall brands and the group’s Engineering Center in Rüsselsheim. These management decisions clearly demonstrate how closely integrated our engineering teams work together. German Engineering competence will continue to play a key role in the Groupe PSA.”

Michael Lohscheller, member of Groupe PSA Managing Board and CEO of Opel/Vauxhall added: “German Engineering is at the heart of Opel. As head of Opel R&D, Christian played a key role in making this visible and tangible for our customers in all of our models, like the current Corsa and future Mokka, which are also available in electric versions. I am delighted that with Marcus Lott we have appointed a highly experienced and recognized engineer as his successor. Marcus has known our company, models and people for almost 30 years now.”

Christian Müller has been Managing Director Engineering of Opel Automobile GmbH since August 1, 2017. Prior to this assignment, he held the position of Vice President GM Global Propulsion Systems – Europe. Christian Müller was born in Rüsselsheim, Germany in 1969 and received a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Darmstadt University.

Marcus Lott has been Vice President Body in White, Equipment & Materials Engineering since January this year. Before this assignment, he was Vice President Programs & Strategy of Opel/Vauxhall. Furthermore, he led the development of various vehicles in North America, South America, Asia and Europe as a chief engineer. Marcus Lott was born in Mainz, Germany in 1968 and holds a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering/Automotive Technology from RWTH Aachen.

AUTOBEST Awards for All-New Opel Corsa and Opel CEO Lohscheller

• “Best Buy Car of Europe 2020”: Opel Corsa wins for the third time at AUTOBEST
• “MANBEST 2019”: CEO Michael Lohscheller is Manager of the Year
• Grand gala: prize-giving ceremony in Mainz
• Successful year: Opel models receive numerous awards across Europe in 2019

AUTOBEST Awards: prize-giving ceremony in Mainz

Double success for Opel at AUTOBEST: at yesterday's award ceremony in Mainz, CEO Michael Lohscheller was awarded the “MANBEST” award for best manager of the year 2019. In addition, the Opel boss received the “Best Buy Car 2020” trophy for the new Opel Corsa. AUTOBEST jury, which is made up of international journalists from 31 countries, has chosen the Opel newcomer as the car with the best price-performance ratio in Europe. With the current award, the new Opel Corsa scores an AUTOBEST title hat trick: No other model has been named “Best Buy Car of Europe” in three successive generations. Among the gala guests in Mainz were Managing Director Marketing and Sales, Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director Engineering, Christian Müller and Vice President Communication, Harald Hamprecht.

Centre-stage with new Opel Corsa: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller flanked by (from left to right), Harald Hamprecht (Vice President Communications), Christian Müller (Managing Director Engineering), Dan Vardie (Founder, AUTOBEST) and Xavier Duchemin (Managing Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales).

“Our new Opel Corsa is a future-oriented car – state-of-the-art, with excellent driving dynamics and also electric. It offers top technologies at fair prices. That also convinced the AUTOBEST jury”, said Michael Lohscheller in Mainz. “The ‘MANBEST’ award is a great personal honour for me. This title exemplifies what we have achieved as a team with all employees at Opel. We have put Opel back on the road to success – and it will stay that way”, promised the manager of the year 2019.

Manager of the year: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller (left) receives the MANBEST award from AUTOBEST jury member, Richard Aucock.

After the takeover of Opel by Groupe PSA in 2017, Michael Lohscheller and his management team developed and implemented the comprehensive strategic plan “PACE!”, which will make Opel sustainably profitable, global and electric. New Opel Corsa-e started the major electrification offensive with its world premiere last summer. Opel Corsa-e combines the practical Corsa qualities with locally CO2-free operation and an everyday electric range of up to 337 kilometres (according to WLTP 1). Already in 2007 and 2015, Corsa generation numbers four and five won overall at AUTOBEST. New Opel Corsa and Corsa-e continue this tradition with the third AUTOBEST title.

Opel Corsa wins for the third time at AUTOBEST

Awards from experts and public: Enthusiasm for Opel models

New generation Corsa has made a strong start. In Germany, for example, it has already been named “Company Car of the Year” and a few days ago, it received the “Connected Car Award” from the Auto Bild Group. In Spain, new Opel Corsa won the “Premio Best Car Coche Global” title. The Opel flagship Insignia is also celebrating success across Europe. In the United Kingdom, it was recently named the “Upper Medium Car of the Year” for the third year in a row; due to its high quality, it is also in the running for the J.D. Power “Most reliable Midsize Car”. In Germany, thanks to its state-of-the-art Twinster all-wheel drive with torque vectoring, the Insignia is the “All-Wheel Drive Car of The Year” and “Auto Test Award” winner, as well as “J.D. Power Award” title-holder. The compact SUVs Mokka X and Crossland X complete the award series at Opel as "Most Reliable Small SUV" in the UK and "Best Family Car" in the Netherlands.

Light commercial vehicles from Opel’s sister brand, Vauxhall, are also particularly popular in the UK. The trio of Combo Cargo, Vivaro and Movano has received numerous prizes ranging from "Small / Light / Medium Van of the Year" to "Light Commercial Vehicle of the Year" and the "TVD Best Trader's Choice Award". The new Vivaro also received the “TVD Best Newcomer Award”. Overseas, Opel was “Brand of the Year” in 2019.

[1] Fuel consumption and CO2-emission data have been determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151).

New Opel Insignia Shines with Next-Gen IntelliLux LED Pixel Light

• Sharper looks: Grand Sport and Sports Tourer with more dynamic appearance
• Brightest: Next-generation IntelliLux LED light with 168 LED elements
• High efficiency: energy-saving Full LED lights across the range
• Safety in reverse: New digital rear view camera and rear cross traffic alert
• Premiere January 2020: New Opel Insignia takes centre stage at Brussels Motor Show

New Opel Insignia Grand Sport and Sports Tourer with more dynamic appearance

Opel gives a first glimpse of the new Insignia. New edition of the German brand’s flagship will premiere at the Brussels Motor Show from January 10-19, 2020 and offer buyers even sharper looks as well as further improved night-time vision. Thanks to the refreshed design, the top-of-the-line-model has an even more powerful on-the-road presence. Extremely slim headlamps with pioneering LED technology make a major contribution. New adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light now features 84 LED elements per headlamp. Headlamps react faster, with more precision than ever before, providing optimum vision for Insignia drivers without glare for oncoming or preceding traffic. With the new-generation IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, Opel flagship is unique in its market segment.

New Opel Insignia Grand Sport 

New edition of the Opel Insignia is packed with advanced technologies. Grand Sport limousine and Sports Tourer estate offer for the first time a digital rear view camera. Combined with radar-based rear cross traffic alert, which warns of traffic approaching from the side, the system further increases safety. Portfolio is completed by numerous proven assistance systems such as forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection and a head-up display. Insignia drivers and passengers are well connected by the offer of excellent infotainment systems with colour touchscreens. List of options includes e-Call and wireless charging for compatible smartphones in the centre console.

New Opel Insignia will be even more efficient than before, thanks to lightweight engineering and all-new, highly efficient petrol and diesel engines. On its introduction in 2009, the first generation was elected “European Car Of The Year”. During the last ten years, almost 1.2 million units of both Insignia generations have rolled off the assembly line in Opel’s hometown of Rüsselsheim.

 Russelsheim - Opel Insignia manufacturing, final inspection 

Precise next-generation IntelliLux LED Pixel Light: 168 LED elements

New Opel Insignia will be equipped exclusively with Full LED light systems. From highly energy-efficient LED headlamps to the new adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, which features an industry-leading total of 168 LED elements, instead of the previous 32.

New Opel Insignia: IntelliLux LED Pixel Light

“With IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, we take another big step forward”, explained Christian Müller, Managing Director Engineering. “Driving at night is therefore more relaxed and safer. New headlamps react faster, imperceptibly and with higher precision to the prevailing driving conditions. Intelligent system continuously adapts the light beam, road ahead is always ideally lit. Result is optimum vision in every situation, without glare for other road users.”

New Opel Insignia: Glare-Free High Beam

Main beam is adjusted seamlessly in milliseconds by two control units – one connected to the front camera and the other in the headlamp. High number of continuously reacting LED elements results in a seamless adaptation of the light beam. Illuminated area is larger than before, approaching or preceding traffic is “cut out” more precisely.

New Opel Insignia: Country Light

Range and direction of the light vary according to the driving situation and surroundings. The light functions range from curve and bad weather, to town, country roads and autobahn, as well as optimised light for parking. In particular, Opel has further improved the autobahn light of the newest IntelliLux LED. In left turns, the light beam reaches further to the left, so that the driver can more easily see roadside signs. When turning right in autobahn mode, the light beam shines further to the right, in order to avoid glare for oncoming traffic.

Power of the new IntelliLux LED Pixel Light system has been significantly increased. 84 LED elements are arranged in three rows in each ultra-slim headlamp, along with the curve light and dip beam module, as well as the characteristic LED daylight running lamp underneath.

Bold, pure, elegant: attractive new front and rear design

“New Insignia continues to build upon our Bold and Pure design execution”, said Opel’s Design Vice President, Mark Adams. “New front end emphasizes Insignia’s elegant and sporty character by proportionally making everything feel lower, wider and executed with clear German attention to detail.”

New chrome-edged radiator grille is wider and features prominent slats; the Opel logo in the middle of the chrome bar seems larger. Chrome bar itself stretches right and left to the LED daylight running lamps, which are now located at the bottom instead of the top of each headlamp. Opel Insignia appears lower and wider, also thanks to the air inlets with integrated fog lamps.

Rear of the Opel Insignia Grand Sport and Sports Tourer is also defined by clear lines. As already on the estate, the valence panel of the Grand Sport limousine will also feature two slots instead of round holes for the exhaust pipes.

Slim, horizontal lines of the design continue in the interior. Precisely placed chrome accents underline the stylish ambience.

Full range: new rear view camera, rear cross traffic alert and more

Typically for a flagship, the Opel Insignia will feature a full range of assistance and infotainment systems. A new digital rear view camera improves rearward vision. Safety when reversing out of parking spaces can be further increased by the optional rear cross traffic alert. System uses radar sensors to detect objects 90 degrees to the left and right behind the Insignia, at distances of up to 20 metres. Driver is warned via the display and acoustic signals. 

Additional assistance systems include:

• Forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
• Lane keep assist
• Side blind spot alert
• Adaptive cruise control with emergency braking
• Traffic sign recognition
• Advanced park assist
• Head-up display, keeping the driver’s eyes on the road.

Portfolio of infotainment systems compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will extend from Multimedia Radio and Multimedia Navi to Multimedia Navi Pro. Top-of-the-line unit features numerous Connected Navigation services. With real-time traffic information, online map updates and predictive navigation, journeys are more relaxing. New symbols give the navigation display a fresher, more modern appearance. Same goes for the instruments. When e-Call is installed, an emergency call is automatically sent if the seatbelt tensioners or airbags are deployed. Alternatively, help can be actively summoned in seconds by simply pressing the red button.

New Opel Insignia will offer high comfort. Ergonomically certified AGR seats are optionally available for driver and front passenger. Compatible smartphones can be charged wirelessly. Tailgate of the Sports Tourer can be opened and closed automatically by a movement of the foot under the sensors in the rear bumper.

All-New Opel Corsa Top in Aerodynamics: For Lower Emissions and Higher Efficiency

• Model of aerodynamics: class-leading drag coefficient of only 0.29
• Every detail counts: active aero shutter, smooth underbody, rear roof spoiler
• Energy saver: efficient aerodynamics cut drag, fuel consumption, emissions
• IAA world premiere: Frankfurt Motor Show debut for all-new Opel Corsa

As with all other newly developed cars Opel optimised Corsa’s aerodynamics at the Research Institute of Automotive Engineering and Vehicle Engines in the wind tunnel of Stuttgart University.

Opel Corsa has always been an innovation leader and the newest model (which makes its world premiere at the 2019 IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show) is no exception. This year’s IAA is open to trade visitors and the general public September 12-22, 2019.

Sixth generation of the small car from Rüsselsheim not only has more driver assistance systems than most of its rivals, it also has superior aerodynamics.

Result is drag coefficient of only 0.29 – compared to its predecessor further reduced frontal area of only 2.13 m2, making All-New Opel Corsa one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class.

As with all the other newly developed cars Opel optimised the Corsa’s aerodynamics at the Research Institute of Automotive Engineering and Vehicle Engines in the wind tunnel of Stuttgart University.

Low drag means that less energy is needed to move the car, which in turn results in reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions.

Result is a drag coefficient of only 0.29 – an excellent value for a car of this size – and compared to its predecessor a further reduced frontal area of only 2.13 m2, making the new Corsa one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class. Also, the new generation of Opel’s bestseller already meets the future Euro 6d emissions standard. 

“Aerodynamics is just one area where Opel is increasing the efficiency of its automobiles”, said Managing Director Engineering, Christian Müller.

“Aerodynamics is just one area where Opel is increasing the efficiency of its automobiles”, said Managing Director Engineering, Christian Müller. “Advanced petrol and diesel powertrains and state-of-the-art electrification are the other tools we are using to significantly cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. All these technologies are fully embraced by our new Corsa, which will also be available for the first time as the all-electric Corsa-e.” 

Due to the challenges posed by CO2 reduction, perfect aerodynamics are gaining great importance in the automotive industry as well as among customers. Low drag means that less energy is needed to move the car, which in turn results in reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions.

All-new Opel Corsa also features spoiler at the rear edge of the roof, which improves the airflow and reduces the turbulence that causes drag.

For example, a ten per cent cut in drag results in a fuel consumption reduction of around two per cent in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), or up to five per cent when driving at 130 km/h.

Opel’s engineers achieved this leading drag factor of 0.29 Cd by paying attention to every detail that helps improve the new Corsa’s aerodynamics.

For example, the underbody from the engine compartment to the rear axle is covered with flat panelling to improve the underbody airflow.

All-new Opel Corsa also features a spoiler at the rear edge of the roof, which improves the airflow and reduces the turbulence that causes drag.

Spoiler cuts aerodynamic lift on the rear axle too, which further improves the new Opel Corsa’s straight-line stability, especially at the higher speeds typical of the German autobahn.

Revolutionary in small cars: Active shutter improves aerodynamic efficiency

All-new Corsa also benefits from an active shutter which lowers drag and improves fuel efficiency by automatically closing the frontal opening when cooling air is least needed. So far this innovation has just been featured in much more expensive cars from higher segments.

When closed, the shutter system enhances aero performance by redirecting airflow around the front of the vehicle and down the sides, rather than through the less aero efficient engine compartment. 

The shutter is open or closed depending on engine coolant temperature and speed. For example, the shutter opens when the car is traveling up a hill or in hot city driving. Shutter closes when less engine cooling is required, for example at urban-road speeds.

Sixth generation of Opel’s bestselling small car is not the first aerodynamically optimised Corsa to make its debut at the IAA. At the 1995 Frankfurt show, Opel surprised the industry with an engineering study based on the Corsa for a so-called “three litre car”, i.e. it was designed to return an average fuel consumption of less than 3.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

Opel Corsa ECO 3 concept

Opel Corsa ECO 3 featured, among others, a roof spoiler derived from the GSi, spoilers ahead of the front wheels and flared rocker mouldings in front of the rear wheels.

Opel Corsa ECO 3 concept: roof spoiler derived from GSi, spoilers ahead of the front wheels and flared rocker mouldings in front of the rear wheels. 

Result of all the streamlining was a particularly low drag coefficient for a small three-door hatchback - only 0.29 Cd. Twenty-four years later a series production car has achieved the same excellent result: All-New Opel Corsa.

Efficiency champion: New Opel Astra

• New generation engines: for minimum consumption and low emissions
• New emissions standard: all powertrains already meet future Euro 6d
• New benchmark: top aerodynamics for lowest drag coefficients
• New top transmission: efficient nine-speed automatic for five-door and Sports Tourer
• New sport chassis: direct steering, revised shock absorbers, Watts link
• New top technologies: optimised front camera and digital instruments
• New comfort: heated windshield, further improved infotainment, wireless charging
• Proven strengths: Intellilux LED matrix light and AGR ergonomic seats

New Opel Astra

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer

Thanks to excellent aerodynamics as well as highly efficient new engines and transmissions, the new Opel Astra sets standards for efficiency and low emissions. Compared with the previous model, CO2 has been cut by up to 19 percent, putting the Astra at the top of the compact class. Current Astra generation already ushered in a new era at its premiere and was elected European Car Of The Year 2016. With its lightweight design (200 kg lighter than the predecessor) and top technologies from higher classes, the Astra set benchmarks. Opel continues to pursue this strategy with ultra-modern new generations of highly efficient and lightweight petrol and diesel engines. The 1.2-1.5-litre three-cylinder power units produce 77 kW (105 hp) to 107 kW (145hp), making both the Astra five-door and Sports Tourer real fuel-saving and CO2 champions (NEDC fuel consumption: urban 6.1-4.5 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.0-3.1 l/100 km, combined 4.8-3.6 l/100 km, 115-96 g/km CO2; WLTP combined: 5.9-4.4, 139-117 g/km CO2; preliminary figures). A counter-rotating balance shaft in the block of the three-cylinder engines offsets vibrations. Base power units already have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. A smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic is optional.

Meticulous development in the wind tunnel also made a significant contribution to the reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. As a result, the new Astra is one of the most aerodynamic compact cars on the market.

At 0.25 Cd, New Opel Astra Sports Tourer belongs to the estate cars with the lowest drag coefficient in the world

At 0.25 Cd, New Opel Astra Sports Tourer belongs to the estate cars with the lowest drag coefficient in the world, while the five-door leads the hatchback class at 0.26 Cd.

New Opel Astra: five-door leads the hatchback class at 0.26 Cd

Aero-benchmarks have been achieved through numerous measures, including an engine compartment cover, deflector-shaped rear axle control arms and a full-face shutter. The upper and lower portions of the new Astra’s radiator grille automatically open and close independently of one another, further improving the frontal airflow. The underbody optimisation improves the drag coefficient by reducing turbulence.

Astra’s dynamic chassis has been further developed. New shock absorbers increase comfort. The optional sports chassis features stiffer dampers, a more direct steering and a Watts link at the rear axle.

“We focussed on reducing fuel consumption and emissions during the development of the new Astra”, said Christian Müller, Managing Director Engineering. “Thanks to the excellent aerodynamics as well as new-generation engines and transmissions, we reduced CO2 emissions by up to 19 percent. That is a huge step to the benefit of our customers, who can also profit from lower running costs. This all puts the new Astra at the top of its class.”

Thanks to state-of-the-art emissions reduction technologies such as Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) and diesel Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), all the Astra’s new powertrains already meet Euro 6d. The strict emissions standard first comes into force for all new registrations in 2021. The all-aluminium diesel and petrol engines are equipped as standard with fuel-saving stop/start technology.

But the new Opel Astra, which can already be ordered in a few weeks, not only boasts exemplary aerodynamics and engine technology. It also comes with many other top technologies, from the new front and rear view camera to the digital speedometer and the next generation of infotainment. The E-Call emergency call system is also on board. A wireless charger in the centre console for smartphones is optionally available.

New Opel Astra: grille in 3D-look

New Opel Astra front impresses with a grille in 3D-look. And while the interior transforms into a concert hall with the optional high-end Bose sound system, Opel Astra turns heads with the optional High Gloss Black Pack.

Efficiency champions: Up to 19 percent lower CO2 emissions

Low consumption and CO2 figures are also enabled by the modern six-speed manual gearboxes, the seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and new nine-speed automatic.

New turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, which are as economical as they are lively, are primarily responsible for the exemplary efficiency. Low consumption and CO2 figures are also enabled by the modern six-speed manual gearboxes, the seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and – for the first time at Opel – a new nine-speed automatic.

New Opel Astra: 9-Speed-AT HydraMatic

Compact, three-cylinder, turbo petrol units are available with 1.2 and 1.4 litre displacements. With power outputs extending from 81 kW (110 hp) to 107 kW (145 hp) and maximum torque from 195 to 236 Newton metres, they achieve an excellent balance between performance and efficiency (NEDC fuel consumption: urban 6.1-5.4 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.0-3.8 l/100 km, combined 4.8-4.4 l/100 km, 110-101 g/km CO2; WLTP2 combined: 5.9-5.2, 136-120 g/km CO2; preliminary figures). Astra 1.2 is combined with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual gearbox while the Astra 1.4 is available exclusively with a new seven-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT). With the CVT, Astra drivers can enjoy the convenience of automatic gear changing or select gears themselves via the shift lever.

Integration of the water-cooled exhaust manifold in the cylinder head contributes to quick engine warm-up, which lowers emissions after a cold start.

New Opel Astra: Three Cylinder 1.2 Direct Injection Turbo

Compared to the previous model, the fuel consumption and CO2 figures of the 77 kW (105 hp) and 90 kW (122 hp) Astra diesels have been reduced by up to 17 percent and around 10 percent respectively.

Instead of the precise, six-speed manual gearbox, the most powerful diesel is optionally available with the seamless shifting of a new nine-speed automatic transmission, which is making its debut at Opel in the Astra.

The diesel engines feature an electrically-activated turbocharger with variable geometry turbine vanes (VGT) and, similar to their petrol counterparts, a balance shaft in the block for additional refinement. Likewise, the exhaust manifold is also integrated in the cylinder head.

Optimum exhaust after-treatment of the Astra 1.5 diesel is delivered by the emissions reduction system consisting of a passive oxidation catalyst, AdBlue injector, SCR catalyst and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Fully digital: New front and rear view camera, digital speedometer

New Opel Astra: Digital speedometer

Opel Astra already offers a portfolio of state-of-the-art technologies and assistance systems that is unrivalled in this vehicle class – first and foremost the intelligent, glare-free IntelliLux LED Matrix light. The extensive offer also includes systems such as adaptive cruise control, following distance indication, forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition and lane keep assist, to name but a few. Also available are AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) ergonomic seats with ventilation and massage function. New Opel Astra is also highly digitalised with a new optional high-tech front camera as well as rear view camera.

New Opel Astra: AGR-certified Ergonomic seats with ventilation and massage function.

New front camera is smaller, but more powerful than before thanks to a faster processor. It now not only recognises vehicles, but also pedestrians – an important safety bonus. Furthermore, thanks to the high-resolution camera, traffic sign recognition can now process even more traffic signs and show them as symbols on the display. Digital rear view camera available in conjunction with the new Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment system is also more powerful. View of the traffic behind the vehicle on the monitor is more distinct and precise; the contrasts are more visible in the dark.

Opel Astra customers enjoy top connectivity with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible systems Multimedia Radio, Multimedia Navi and Multimedia Navi Pro. They belong to the newest infotainment generation – smarter, faster and more intuitive. Top-of-the-line Multimedia Navi Pro – as in the Opel Insignia flagship – has an eight-inch colour touchscreen and can also be operated by voice control. Connected Navigation services with real-time traffic information and online map updates make the journey more relaxed. The navigation display itself appears with redesigned symbols in a fresher, more modern look. The same applies to the instrument cluster: drivers in the new Opel Astra are the first to have a digital speedometer.

Optionally available is the E-Call emergency call function. If needed, help is just seconds away by pressing the red button. If the seatbelt tensioners or airbags are deployed, the system automatically makes an emergency call.

Driving pleasure: Wireless charging and Bose sound system

Comfort is a top priority in the new Astra. A practical feature when travelling: compatible smartphones can now also be charged inductively via wireless charging. All you have to do is insert your smartphone into the opening provided in the centre console – a flat battery is a thing of the past.

The new Astra transforms into a concert hall with the optional Bose high-end sound system. A total of seven loudspeakers including a RichBass subwoofer under the boot ensure optimum listening pleasure. The driver and passengers are surrounded by a rich sound – regardless of where they are in the vehicle. In addition, up to eight different sound profiles can be stored via the digital amplifier – depending on the taste and preference of the music lover.

Last but not least, the new Astra introduces another comfort feature that makes driving in the cold season more pleasant and safer: the heated windscreen. Fine, almost invisible wires in the windscreen ensure that Astra drivers quickly have a clear view of the road on frosty days and that the windscreen no longer fogs up.

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer 

Lighting Technology for Everyone: Opel Astra Turns Night into Day

120 Years of Opel Automobile Production

• Anniversary offer: Astra “120 Years“ special edition at attractive prices
• Making cars since 1899: Best lighting has a long tradition at Opel
• Glare-free: IntelliLux LED matrix light in Insignia, Astra and the next Corsa
• Saving energy while retaining light output: New Eco-LED light in up-coming models
• In the spotlight: Opel has always democratised innovative lighting technologies

Opel’s first car, Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” with Opel Astra “120 Years“ edition 

In 2019 Opel celebrates 120 years of automobile production – and thereby 120 years full of innovations for everyone. The German brand has a tradition of pioneering high-tech advancements and quickly bringing them to series production. This makes mobility affordable for many and the cars safer, cleaner, more comfortable and more practical. The motto “see and be seen” was already followed by Opel’s first car, the Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” of 1899, as well as by all the other models that followed, from the famous Opel Kapitän, the legendary GT and the first-generation Insignia, to the current Astra. The IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamps of the compact bestseller as well as the Insignia turn night into day. They will also start a revolution in the small car class when the next-generation of the bestselling Corsa debuts with adaptive Full-LED Matrix light. Opel will introduce the alternative of new Eco-LED light in future models, future reducing energy consumption while retaining light output.

“Our goal is the best possible visibility at all times”, said Opel’s head of engineering, Christian Müller. “We want to offer technologies that are unrivalled in their segment. Currently our adaptive Full-LED Matrix light is the best example. This was not available in the volume segment before and now we are even going to bring it on the next-generation Corsa.”

Opel is equipping all its models with the newest light technology. For example, the Astra, which combines top technologies with first-rate driving dynamics. They are complemented by assistance systems such as Hill Start Assist and Cruise Control as standard throughout the Astra range. The same goes for air conditioning and Solar Protect glazing. The “120 Years” version additionally features Park Pilot, front fog lights and 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard - all for a RRP of only €21,725.00 including VAT in Germany. And the optional bright-as-day IntelliLux LED Matrix light ensures optimum illumination in every situation.

Romantic candlelight à la “System Lutzmann”

The beginnings of automobile lights, on the other hand, were quite dark. What is today taken for granted in road traffic was still unimaginable over 120 years ago – instead lanterns were carried in front of the car. The primary intention was not to illuminate the road, but to be seen by other road users. At the end of the 19th century, the Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” went a step further. It also illuminated the surroundings with household candles, but no one had to carry them anymore. The candle now sat in a shaft above which the “headlight” was mounted as a glass container with mirror. A spring constantly pushed the candle so far upwards during the burning process that it could optimally shine at a consistent level through the glass. A simple solution for low cost with a major effect – in short, typical Opel.

Opel Kapitän – A car that belongs to the world

Opel also set trends in headlamp design early on. After all, the 1938 Kapitän was one of the first cars to help say goodbye to round lamps: the headlamps of the large Opel were not only fully integrated into the fenders, but were also hexagonal in shape. A car for everyone, a “car that belongs to the world”, according to a brochure from 1938. In other words, the Opel Kapitän “will remain a contemporary car for years to come thanks to its modern lines and progressive design”.

In the 1960s, the shape of the headlamps continued becoming more angular. Opel led the trend with the 1964 Kapitän A, which together with its sister models Admiral and Diplomat emphasised a flat, wide look with rectangular headlamps. No wonder that the successful Kapitän models became real flagships: progressive, comfortable and powerful cars that one could afford.

The Opel GT continued on this path in 1968, impressing not only with its completely new Coke bottle design – the legendary sports car for everyone was also the first German car with pop-up swivel headlights. Who could resist these affectionately called "sleepy eyes"? Via the lever on the centre console, the headlamps popped up. Halogen spotlights in the grille below the bumper also doubled as parking lights.

More light, more visibility with Xenon headlamps

Opel Omega B was the first model to offer Xenon gas discharge headlamps as standard from 1998. They owed their name to the natural gas with which the lamp bodies were filled. Compared to the halogen headlamps commonly used at the time, the triple light intensity not only gave them a greater range, but also better illumination of the road. And they were much more efficient: Energy consumption was one third lower, heat radiation 40 percent lower and service life longer.

A dynamic headlamp levelling system was now also on board. This compensated for changes in body position – for example with a heavy load or during acceleration and braking. This resulted in the road always being uniformly illuminated. Once again, Opel pioneered lighting technologies that were affordable for a wide range of buyers.

AFL for everyone in the mid-size class

So it is only logical that Opel was the first vehicle manufacturer to bring dynamic curve light and 90-degree cornering light into the mid-size class in 2003 with AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting) in the Opel Vectra and Opel Signum. The innovative Opel lighting technology combined dynamic curve lighting with a static cornering light for intersections and tight bends for the first time. An additional comfort function of AFL was the Motorway Light: at speeds from around 120 km/h and constant straight ahead driving, the low-beam lighting automatically adjusted itself slightly higher and thus optimised long-distance vision. The now standard dynamic headlamp levelling system ensures that there is no glare for oncoming traffic.

In 2004, the Opel Astra was the first compact model with curve light. In 2006, the brand democratised safety technology even further when Opel made curve and cornering light based on bi-halogen available for the first time in the minivan and small car segments in the Meriva and Corsa.

The next light generation AFL+ based on powerful bi-xenon headlamps made its debut in 2008 with the introduction of the first Insignia. It set a new standard in the automotive industry. Using complex algorithms, the light distribution of the headlamps was automatically adjusted to the respective road profile and the prevailing visibility conditions.

The modern Opel flagship offered a total of nine lighting functions – Town Light, Pedestrian Area Light, Country Road Light, Motorway Light, Adverse Weather Light, Static Cornering Light, Dynamic Curve Light, High Beam Light and High Beam Light Assistant. Another innovation in the Insignia was the LED daytime running light, which consumes considerably less electricity and thus fuel than daytime running light from the main headlamp.

IntelliLux LED: Bright as day but no one is dazzled

The ground-breaking IntelliLux LED matrix light was launched in 2015 with the current Opel Astra generation. Once again thanks to Opel, a feature that was previously reserved for luxury vehicles made its debut in the compact class. The headlamps of the compact class best-seller have a total of 16 LED elements (eight on each side), which automatically and continuously adjust the length and distribution of the light cone to any traffic situation and simply "cut out" oncoming cars and those driving ahead. So there is zero glare effect – with excellent visibility. Or as Opel brand ambassador Jürgen Klopp puts it: “It’s as bright as in the football stadium – but nobody is dazzled".

How this works is quite simple: as soon as the car leaves the city limits, the Matrix headlamps automatically switch to high beam mode and continuously adjust the length and distribution of the light cone. The state-of-the-art system turns night into day for drivers and passengers without disturbing other road users.

IntelliLux LED matrix light is not only affordable, it is also highly sophisticated full LED lighting. For example, as not every Astra has a built-in navigation system, IntelliLux must be able to detect whether the car is travelling in an urban or extra-urban area. This works via the camera/speed interface. As soon as the speed exceeds 50 km/h, the camera checks where the car is at the moment. On a poorly lit road or in dark surroundings, the high beam automatically switches on. The system recognizes motorways and cities by their street lighting, among other things. In Motorway Light mode, part of the left-hand LED elements is permanently deactivated so as not to dazzle oncoming traffic. The Opel solution is thus the first matrix lighting system for a series production vehicle that continuously adapts to its surroundings without being coupled to a navigation device.

Eco-LED: Powerful and efficient light of the future

Opel’s engineers not only want to optimize the driver’s view and reduce the glare for oncoming traffic. Another focus of development is the reduction of energy consumption while retaining the light output. While halogen light consumed around 72 Watts, the matrix light of the Astra needs only 32 Watts. When Opel introduces Eco-LED light on future models it will consume just 17 Watts. That corresponds to an energy saving of 76 percent without loss of light output. Or 0.7 g/km less CO2 per car according to WLTP, thanks to Eco-LED light alone.

Proposal to Safeguard Engineering Jobs in Rüsselsheim through a Strategic Partnership with Segula Technologies

R&D center in Rüsselsheim

Groupe PSA and Opel have informed the general works council of Opel Automobile GmbH of the intention to discuss a potential strategic partnership with engineering service provider Segula Technologies to protect engineering jobs in Rüsselsheim and to overcome the workload decrease from third parties. The Segula Technologies proposal aims at creating a European engineering campus and Center of Excellence in Rüsselsheim enlarging the scope beyond the automotive industry and including fields such as rail and energy as reflected by their customer portfolio. An agreement on such a strategic partnership would include the takeover of vehicle and propulsion engineering facilities together with up to 2,000 employees of the Rüsselsheim R&D Center by Segula Technologies. Segula Technologies is willing to continue the protection against dismissal agreed until July 2023. The implementation of the potential strategic partnership is subject to successful further negotiations with Segula Technologies and the social partners as well as the approvals of various bodies including the supervisory board of Opel Automobile GmbH.

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller said: “We have evaluated a solution in the context of a heavily decreasing workload from external parties in our R&D Center. Our duty and priority as a responsible management team has been to work hard on a project to safeguard highly qualified engineering jobs here in Rüsselsheim, while continuing to proudly develop our Opel future models and perform the tasks of the 15 Centers of Competence for the entire Groupe PSA. We will discuss this proposal of a strategic partnership with our social partners in detail.”

Laurent Germain, Group Managing Director of Segula Technologies added: “The potential strategic partnership is key to achieving our aim of becoming the world’s leading automotive solutions provider by 2023 with the creation of a core engineering center in Rüsselsheim, which’s scope would also cover new areas beyond the automotive industry to serve our customers worldwide. The recognised skills of the Opel engineers combined with Segula Technologies’ know-how, would allow us to set the standard and contribute to the development of the local economy in the long run, to meet our customer expectations in all our fields of activity.”

Christian Müller, Managing Director Engineering of Opel said: “Our R&D center in Rüsselsheim remains the heart of the Opel brand. Our engineers are committed to designing and developing future Opel models here, in addition to the takeover of global tasks for the entire Groupe PSA, e.g. through 15 Centers of Competence. Thus German engineering skills will benefit the entire company. At the same time, a strategic partnership would enable us to fully utilise our state-of-the-art engineering facilities and to overcome the overcapacity challenges ahead. We would give a solid future outlook to the engineering team of today.”

Rüsselsheim Engineering Center Develops Next Four-Cylinder Petrol Engine Generation for Groupe PSA

• Innovative four-cylinder petrol engine family for highest efficiency and low emissions
• Market-introduction as of 2022 in China, Europe and North America
• Optimised for use with electric motors in hybrid systems
• Global responsibility for new engine family adds to earlier announced competencies in Rüsselsheim

The Rüsselsheim Engineering Center will take on the global responsibility for the development of the next-generation of high-efficiency petrol engines for all Groupe PSA brands (Peugeot, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Opel and Vauxhall). The next generation of four-cylinder engines will be optimised for operation in combination with electric motors and will be used in the drive train of hybrid systems. Market-introduction will begin in 2022.

The new generation of engines is designated for use in all Groupe PSA brands in China, Europe and North America, meeting the future emission standards of these markets. The power units feature state-of-the-art technologies such as direct-injection, turbocharging and variable valve control. The engines are thus highly efficient and will deliver low fuel consumption and low CO₂ values.

“Rüsselsheim already had global responsibility for engine development when we were still part of GM. With the development of the new generation of four-cylinder petrol engines, we can exploit one of our key competencies. The economic direct-injection, in combination with hybrid technology, will consolidate the strong position of Groupe PSA in lowering CO₂ emissions,” said Opel’s Managing Director Engineering, Christian Müller.

The Rüsselsheim Engineering Center has decades of experience in the construction of efficient petrol engines. The engineers are now developing the new engine generation on the basis of the current Groupe PSA four-cylinder PureTech units. These all-aluminium engine, which have a displacement of 1.6 litres, already convince with a high level of efficiency and direct throttle response – virtues that the successor generation will build upon.

The upcoming four-cylinder units form the second petrol engine family of Groupe PSA from 2022 alongside the well-known three-cylinder PureTech turbo engine that only recently won the “Engine of the Year” award for the fourth time in a row. In addition to the responsibility for the new engine family, the engineering team in Rüsselsheim also leads the development of light commercial vehicles (LCVs) for the entire group. This includes the development of LCV platforms and modules from advanced development to production maturity. Furthermore, Groupe PSA has currently established 15 Centers of Competence in Rüsselsheim – from hydrogen & fuel cell to seat development.

Opel Grandland X Debut for New 1.5 Litre Turbo Diesel Engine

• Powerful: New 1.5 Turbo diesel with 96 kW/130 hp
• Ahead of schedule: New 1.5 litre Turbo diesel already meets future Euro 6d-TEMP standard
• Optimum after-treatment: NOx adsorber plus Selective Catalytic Reduction
• Lower fuel consumption: Up to four percent more efficient than predecessor
• Eight-speed: Low friction automatic gearbox for extra comfort and fuel economy

Powerful combination: Opel Grandland X with new 1.5 litre diesel engine offers strong performance with high climate friendliness and environmental compatibility.

Opel Grandland X compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) is bringing a new advanced diesel engine to the brand’s powertrain portfolio. The new 1.5 litre, four cylinder, turbocharged diesel making its debut in the Opel Grandland X is more powerful and more economical than the engine it replaces. The new powertrain is designed to meet strict future emissions requirements thanks to an innovative oxidation catalyst/NOx adsorber coupled with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR).

Opel is bringing the new 96 kW/130 hp diesel to the market in the Grandland X with a six-speed manual transmission (fuel consumption^[1] urban 4.7-4.7 l/100 km, extra-urban 3.9-3.8 l/100 km, combined 4.2-4.1 l/100 km, 110-108 g/km CO₂). Maximum torque is 300 Nm at 1750 rpm. The new engine is equipped with fuel-saving Start/Stop.

In comparison to its predecessor, the 88 kW/120 hp 1.6 litre diesel with six-speed manual transmission (NEDC diesel consumption urban 4.9-4.7 l/100 km, extra-urban 3.9-3.5 l/100 km, combined 4.3-4.0 l/100 km, 111-104 g/km CO₂), the new 130 hp 1.5 litre engine in the Opel Grandland X delivers fuel economy improved by up to four percent. This has been achieved through the reduction in displacement and friction, the optimized combustion system with patented piston geometry and the increased exhaust gas recirculation (enabled by a high-efficiency heat exchanger).

Christian Müller, Managing Director Engineering Opel Automobile GmbH: “The high-tech design of the new 1.5 litre turbo diesel in the Opel Grandland X enables customers to combine the fun of a compact sports utility vehicle with the powerful performance, strong climate friendliness and high environmental compatibility of an advanced diesel engine.”

Clean, compact: Fully integrated after-treatment system with NOx adsorber and SCR

The cylinder head with integrated air intake manifold and the crankcase of the new 1.5 litre diesel are made of lightweight aluminium, while the four valves per cylinder are activated by dual overhead camshafts. The common rail direct injection system operates at up to 2,000 bar, with fuel entering the combustion chambers through eight-hole injector nozzles. The new engine is equipped with a turbocharger featuring variable geometry turbine vanes (VGT), which are activated electrically.

For optimum exhaust after-treatment, the emissions reduction system – consisting of a passive oxidation catalyst/NOx adsorber, AdBlue injector, SCR catalyst and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) – is grouped together as a compact single unit, as near as possible to the engine. The NOx adsorber acts as a cold start catalyst, reducing NOx emissions at temperatures below the SCR light-off. With this innovative technology the new 1.5 litre diesel meets the strict Euro 6d-TEMP standard for NOx.

The future-oriented design of the new diesel reduces weight and offers significant potential for the future, with the compact dimensions allowing integration in cars of various sizes and in the most compact engine compartments. This give designers more freedom in terms of styling.

Eight-speed automatic for higher comfort and excellent fuel economy

The new engine is also available with an advanced new eight-speed automatic transmission that not only offers seamless shifting, but thanks to its low friction design also further reduces fuel consumption and emissions (fuel consumption^[2] urban 4.5-4.4 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.0-3.9 l/100 km, combined 4.2-4.1 l/100 km, 109-108 g/km CO₂).

With the new 1.5 litre power unit and the newly introduced 130 kW/177 hp 2.0 litre Turbo Diesel engine (fuel consumption^[3] urban 5.3-5.3 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.6-4.5 l/100 km, combined 4.9-4.8 l/100 km, 128-126 g/km CO₂) Opel  Grandland X customers can now choose from two powerful, yet very fuel efficient climate-friendly and pro-environmental diesels, which both comply with the strict Euro 6d-temp standard that will become mandatory for newly registered cars in September 2019. 

Therefore, they are not affected by potential urban diesel bans. By 2020, Opel will also offer the Grandland X as the brand’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

 ^1] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison purposes.

^[2] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison purposes.
^[3] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison purposes.