Kaiserslautern plant is a key location in Stellantis production network: components for more than 30 models of different brands

• Kaiserslautern currently supplies six Stellantis brands
• Europe's Car of the Year 2023, Jeep Avenger, will also come from West Palatinate
• Planning for Gigafactory at Kaiserslautern site continues

With production of components for more than 30 vehicle models from Stellantis world, the Kaiserslautern plant has developed into a key location in the international production network.

Employees in Kaiserslautern currently produce components for numerous vehicles from six different automobile brands, including Opel models Corsa, Mokka, Crossland, Combo Life as well as Astra and Astra Sports Tourer. Also in cars from Peugeot (208, 2008, 308, new 3008 and new 5008, 408, 508, Rifter) and Citroën (C3, C4, C5 Aircross, Berlingo) as well as in DS 7 Crossback, in Fiat 500 and in Europe's car Year 2023, Jeep Avenger is fitted with parts from Palatinate, latter with reinforcements in door area.

Even beyond classic components business, automotive location in West Palatinate is strategically well positioned for mobility of future. Automotive Cells Company (ACC) joint venture, in which Mercedes-Benz and TotalEnergies are involved alongside Stellantis/Opel, will build a Gigafactory on same site in which battery cells for electric vehicles will be produced from 2025. Planning for this billion-euro project is progressing well.

“Kaiserslautern is ideally positioned for age of electromobility. We are looking into future with confidence,” said factory manager Rafal Trojca. Especially since components for cars from several Stellantis brands will also be produced in West Palatinate on new STLA Medium platform in the future.Vehicle platform, designed for purely electric cars, crossovers and SUV models from C and D segments, has state-of-the-art performance features such as a range of 700 kilometers, which is unmatched in this class.

Stellantis has formulated ambitious goals in its “ Dare Forward 2030 ” strategic plan. CO 2 emissions are to be halved by 2030 compared to 2021 and goal of net zero CO 2 emissions is to be achieved by 2038. Remaining emissions (in single-digit percentage range) are to be offset. In this context, the aim is to achieve, among other things, a sales share of 100% battery-electric passenger cars in Europe and 50% for passenger cars and commercial vehicles in United States by 2030.

Stellantis Zaragoza produces its 15 millionth vehicle

• Stellantis Zaragoza has produced its 15 millionth car, a 100% electric Opel Corsa-e that multi-brand plant produces exclusively worldwide together with thermal version of this model and Citroën C3 Aircross and Opel Crossland SUVs

• Stellantis Zaragoza is a pioneer in benchmark methods and practices in the Group, and is firmly committed to respecting environment, with intensive use of renewable energy

• Stellantis Zaragoza reaches a new milestone in its more than four decades of experience with the production of its 15 millionth vehicle, a 100% electric Opel Corsa-e that plant produces exclusively worldwide together with thermal version of this model and Citroën C3 Aircross and Opel Crossland SUVs

In these four decades, compact vehicles such as Opel Kadett or Opel Astra, sports-oriented coupes such as the Opel Tigra, minivans such as Opel Meriva, commercial vehicles such as Opel Combo or SUV like the Opel Mokka.

Opel Corsa is an icon for Stellantis Zaragoza, which opened its doors in 1982 to produce this model, with which it has maintained a more than lasting relationship since it has manufactured its six generations. Precisely, with sixth generation of Opel Corsa and Opel Corsa-e, electrification arrived at plant, continuing with a technological modernization that is the hallmark of the plant.

Citroën C3 Aircross SUV is produced in Stellantis Zaragoza and a few weeks ago it crossed the barrier of more than 500,000 units produced. For its part, Opel Crossland has been produced at this plant since 2017 and 560,000 units have already been manufactured.

In 2021, Battery Assembly Workshop was inaugurated in Stellantis Zaragoza, which assembles the traction chains of the Opel Corsa-e and Citroën ë-C4, manufactured in Stellantis Madrid.

During all this time, Stellantis Zaragoza has made diversification and innovation compatible with respect for the environment. Today, in line with the Group's Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, the plant stands out for its commitment to renewable energy and environmentally friendly production.

It has a self-consumption solar plant that covers a third of the electricity consumption of the factory. Soon, the installation of photovoltaic panels and wind stations will continue, with the aim of ensuring 80% of electricity needs of the factory in 2024.

“It is a very special circumstance that 15 millionth vehicle that leaves our assembly lines is precisely an Opel Corsa-e, because it is the 100% electric version of model with which factory was inaugurated in 1982. It combines past, present and future of this multi-brand plant. It is a tribute to commitment of our workers over years, to our ability to adapt and to our highest level of demand and quality”, affirms José Luis Alonso Mosquera, Director of  Stellantis Plant in Zaragoza.

Opel Celebrates 20 Years of seats with AGR Seal of Approval

• Pioneer: Opel democratises back-friendly seating in variety of market segments
• AGR premiere: 2003 Signum was first Opel with ergonomically certified seats
• More than just seats: Total vehicle concept of Opel Meriva awarded AGR seal
• Wide choice: AGR-certified seats for today’s Opel Astra, Crossland and Grandland
• For that sporty feeling: Exclusive AGR performance seats for Opel GSe models

Opel Signum

Opel this year marks 20th anniversary of the introduction of healthy seats certified by AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. – an independent German association promoting research related to back-pain prevention).

Latest generation of AGR seats is available in new Opel Grandland GSe, the Astra GSe and the Astra Sports Tourer GSe. But the start was made exactly two decades ago by the Opel Signum, which was the first car to offer AGR seats in the mid-size segment.

Seats form the link between people and the vehicle. They are crucial for a comfortable, relaxed journey. That is why Opel places great importance on ensuring that they offer optimum comfort and support for the spine, especially on longer journeys. “Drivers and passengers come into contact with no other component in the car as intensively as with the seat. Our goal as a carmaker is that our customers do not have to think about the seat even on longer trips, because it offers comfort and also prevents the risk of back pain in the long term,” said Stefan Koob, who is responsible for the development of seat structures.

In-car ergonomics is more than just a feel-good factor. Ergonomics also includes safety. A relaxed, back-friendly seat prevents fatigue during the journey; and in the event of a accident, the seat occupant has a chance of a positive outcome above all if the seat manages to hold him or her in position. Only then can seat belts and airbags fully provide their protection.

Opel Signum 2003: First Opel with AGR ergonomic seats

“At Opel, we have always taken the democratisation of seating comfort to heart. That means everyone is entitled to a good seat in the car,” Koob explained. Back in 2003 the ergonomic seats of Opel Signum set a new standard in the automotive industry. Thereafter the healthy seats were rolled out across much of the Opel model range. Long-distance and company car drivers were especially grateful; thanks to numerous adjustment functions, the ergonomic seats with AGR certification could be optimally adjusted for every driver, so that he or she got out rested and without discomfort even after hours of driving.

Opel Signum: AGR ergonomic seat

A few years later, another premiere followed. In 2010, the flexible Opel Meriva van was the first vehicle to receive an AGR seal of approval. Meriva’s integral ergonomics system comprised the ergonomic seats, the FlexDoors doors that opened in opposite directions, variable FlexSpace rear seating concept and the FlexFix bicycle rack.

For all shapes and sizes: Wide choice of various AGR-certified seats

Opel today offers a variety of AGR seats with a choice of comfort or more sports-oriented contours in the Astra, Crossland and Grandland. To enable the driver and the front passenger to adopt a comfortable and back-friendly seating position for any journey, AGR seats offer 10 adjustments for the driver and six for the co-driver. Regardless of the seat contour, the multitude of adjustable parameters – many electrically operated on the driver’s seat – include sliding range, height, tilt, backrest tilt, thigh support, lumbar support and seat cushion tilt, as well as heating for the cold season.

Top of the line: Performance seats in Opel Grandland GSe and Opel Astra GSe

New GSe performance seats represent the youngest developments in healthy seating technology from Opel. Trimmed in black Alcantara, stylish front seats in Opel Grandland GSe, Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe feature especially high upper wings. Unique construction of the seats in Astra GSe models features fully integrated head restraints. Another eye-catching detail is the distinctive grey stripe electro-welded onto the backrest. Also unique to GSe is the stitched pattern at base of the backrest and on the seat cushion, while the unmistakable yellow-on-black GSe logo adorns the seatback.

Opel Grandland GSe: Performance seats

Opel Astra GSe: Performance seats

Comfort of AGR driver’s seats can be further enhanced – depending on the model variant – with ventilation. In addition, the memory function particularly comes in handy when sharing driving duties over long distances.

AGR-Certified Opel seats: Optimum Ergonomics for every journey

• Decades-long Opel philosophy: Seats must offer support as well as comfort
• Top of the line: State-of-the-art GSe performance seats will lead Opel’s AGR offer
• Wide range: AGR seats for Opel Astra, Crossland and Grandland

 All-new performance seats unique to Opel Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe

Opel’s offer of ergonomic seats certified by AGR (“Aktion Gesunder Rücken” – Campaign for healthy backs, an independent German association promoting research related to back-pain prevention) is extensive and a key component of the German carmaker’s customer-centric approach to mobility. Today, Opel buyers can already order ergonomic AGR seats on the new Opel Astra, Opel Crossland and Opel Grandland. However, seat development at Opel never stands still and the next stage will soon be available in the form of all-new performance seats unique to the Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe – certified, of course, by AGR.

At Opel, car seats must not only provide comfort, they must also support the occupant’s back; throughout the journey and especially when driving longer distances. It therefore comes as no surprise that the innovative German brand (which this year celebrates its 160th anniversary) was the first to offer back-friendly seats in the mid-size segment in 2003, with the first seal of approval from the ergonomics experts at AGR for the Opel Signum.

That GSe-feeling: Stylish performance seats with ergonomic AGR certification

New GSe performance seats represent the youngest developments in healthy seating technology from Opel. Trimmed in black Alcantara, the stylish front seats in the Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe feature especially high upper wings. Unique construction with fully integrated head restraints also displays a distinctive grey accent-stripe electro-welded onto the backrest – a high-precision technology used for the first time on a series production car. Also unique to the GSe is the stitched pattern at the base of the backrest and on the seat cushion, while the unmistakable yellow-on-black GSe logo adorns the top of the seatback.

Take your (AGR) seat: Functions and adjustments for every trip and driving style

Opel already offers a variety of AGR seats with a choice of comfort or more sports-oriented contours. To enable the driver and the front passenger to adopt a comfortable and back-friendly seating position for any journey, AGR seats offer 10 adjustments for the driver and six for the co-driver. Regardless of the seat contour, the multitude of adjustable parameters – many electrically operated on the driver’s seat – include sliding range, height, tilt, backrest tilt, thigh support, lumbar support and seat cushion tilt, as well as heating for the cold season.

Comfort of AGR driver’s seats can be further enhanced – depending on the model variant – with ventilation. In addition, the memory function particularly comes in handy when sharing driving duties over long distances.

With AGR-certified seats, Opel drivers always have the comfort they want and the support they need, regardless of the journey’s type or duration.

Opel Shark Cult spreads to All-New Astra Sports Tourer

• Shark shoal: All-New Opel Astra Sports Tourer is home to several marine predators
• Cult origins: Shark tradition began with little boy’s bright idea
• Shark as symbol: Opel designers show their passion for tiniest details

All-New Opel Astra Sports Tourer

Real Opel fans immediately begin the search whenever the brand launches a new model. Not for the numerous advanced technologies included in the standard equipment, but for the marine lifeform hiding in and around the car: the shark. Miniature avatars of the creature that sits atop the ocean food chain have amused Opel drivers and passengers for years – as now in the new Astra Sports Tourer.

While the interior of most Opel models, such as the award-winning Mokka-e and Corsa-e, somewhere conceals one shark, the newest generation of the compact estate hosts several – one near the front, another towards the rear and others in more unusual places (but even Opel sharks must get their energy from somewhere). Exploring the new Astra Sports Tourer in search of sharks – for example as plug-in hybrid (WLTP combined fuel consumption1: 1.2-1.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 27-25 g/km) – is almost as much fun as driving it.

“Little sharks hidden in the new Opel Astra and Sports Tourer show our designers’ love for the tiniest of details”, said Design Director Karim Giordimaina. “Our customers can feel this passion and in the meantime Opel’s sharks have become a cult. This also demonstrates how approachable the Opel brand is.”

Opel Design Director Karim Giordimaina

From idea to cult: Opel sharks story began in 2004

But how do miniature sharks come to be hiding in Opel cars? One Sunday afternoon in 2004, designer Dietmar Finger was at home working on a sketch for a new Corsa. 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!

Opel Corsa Chief Designer at the time, Niels Loeb, was immediately sold on the idea. Shark in the glove box went into series production and the “Opel Shark Story” began. Next came Opel Zafira, where Karim Giordimaina, then in charge of the interior design, hid three sharks in the compact van’s cockpit. More followed, first in the Opel ADAM, then the Astra and other cars such as the Crossland and the Grandland SUV flagship.

In the meantime, every interior chief designer has placed a shark or two inside a new Opel model.  Wxact location always remains secret, even from Design top management. Fish therefore stay hidden until the launch, which makes for an interesting search for shark lovers both inside and outside the company.

Shark cult is set to continue with future Opel models. Exactly where they will be hiding in the car remains a mystery, but customers can already look forward to having fun looking for them.

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

Successful SUV: More than 500,000 Opel Crossland Produced

• Popular: More than half a million units have already rolled off the production line
• Flexible: Sliding rear seat and up to 1,255 litres of boot volume
• Clear and bold: Opel Crossland with unmistakable Opel Vizor and striking rear end

Clear and bold design language, highly flexible and equipped with cutting-edge technologies – Opel Crossland is highly popular with customers. Compact SUV with the Blitz bolt has become a real sales hit since its launch in 2017. Now Opel Crossland has broken through the 500,000 mark.

There are many reasons for its success: At a length of just 4.22 meters, the Opel Crossland combines maximum interior variability with plenty of space for the whole family. This is ensured, among other things, by the 60/40 split-folding rear seat bench, which can be moved longitudinally by up to 150 millimetres, depending on the variant. This increases the boot volume from 410 to 520 litres in no time at all. If the rear seats are folded down completely, there is even room for 1,255 litres.

In addition, it comes with numerous assistance systems that make driving in the Crossland relaxed and safe. Standard electronic helpers include Intelligent Cruise Control and Speed Limiter, Lane Keep Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, as well as bright Full LED headlights. Systems such as Forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, Driver Drowsiness Alert, Head-up Display, 180 degree Panorama Rear View Camera, IntelliGrip adaptive traction control and more are also available.¨

Opel Crossland not only impresses with its versatility and top technologies, but also with its modern look. Since last year, it has been sporting the unmistakable new Opel design, including the Vizor: For example, only a few elements such as the characteristic Opel Blitz are visible; the front looks as if it has been cast from a single mold and is visually wider. Rear view is equally clear and boldly designed to catch the eye. Here, Crossland has been confidently bearing its name centrally on the tailgate since the beginning of 2021. In Germany, the extensively equipped Opel Crossland Elegance starts at 25,540 euros (RRP incl. VAT) 1.

Successful model is produced at the Zaragoza plant in Spain. Opel has already announced that the successor, like every new Blitz model, will also be electrified. From 2028 onwards, Opel will purely sell electric vehicles in Europe.

[1] Opel Crossland Elegance 1.2 Direct Injection Turbo with 81 kW/110 hp and 6-speed manual gearbox. WLTP combined fuel consumption: 6.1-5.7 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 137-129 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures mentioned comply with the WLTP homologation (regulation EU 2017/948). From 1 September 2018, new vehicles are type-approved using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which is a new, more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. WLTP fully replaces the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which was the test procedure used previously. Due to more realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions measured under the WLTP are in many cases higher compared to those measured under the NEDC. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures may vary depending on specific equipment, options and format of tires.

Opel to become Purely Electric in record time

• Opel offer already includes twelve electrified versions
• Electric offer for entire light commercial vehicle line-up
• Electrified version of each model by 2024, purely electric in Europe by 2028
• Opel Crossland and Opel Insignia successors also battery-electric
• Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN with fuel cell technology already in use with customers
• New Opel Manta with purely electric drive by mid-decade
• Production of high-performance batteries in ACC giga factory in Kaiserslautern from 2025
• Opel pioneered electric mobility in Europe with Ampera and Ampera-e

Opel is becoming a purely electric brand

Opel is becoming a purely electric brand. By 2028, Rüsselsheim-based carmaker will have switched its entire product line-up to purely electric drives. Today, Opel already offers a comprehensive selection of electrified models. Presently, customers can order twelve electrified variants – from the small Opel Rocks-e to the large Movano-e transporter. A further battery-electric model will follow by mid-decade in the new interpretation of the Opel Manta. And the successors of the Opel Crossland and Opel Insignia will also be electric – and therefore emissions free.

“Opel is on a consistent path to going electric – and in record time. We are thus making an important contribution to reducing CO2. And we will not stop with the conversion of our product range: Together with our partners, we will be manufacturing our own high-performance batteries in Kaiserslautern as early as 2025. In addition, a resource-friendly new campus is being built at our headquarters in Rüsselsheim,” said Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz, explaining the brand’s strategy.

Opel’s ultimate goal is to offer electric vehicles that perfectly meet the demands of customers: In future, this includes driving ranges between 500 and 800 kilometres and a best-in-class fast-charging capability of 32 kilometres per minute.

Opel customers already have access to a comprehensive range of electrified models. All Opel light commercials vehicles already offer an emissions-free option. Opel Combo-e, Vivaro-e and Movano-e are battery-electric, while Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN offers an option with fuel cell technology. 

Opel Combo-e, Vivaro-e and Movano-e are battery-electric

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN 

On the passenger car side, Opel Corsa-e and Mokka-e – winners of the coveted Golden Steering Wheel in 2020 and 2021 – have long since advanced to bestsellers. In Germany, the share of the battery-electric variants of these models already makes up more than 25 percent of all sales. New Opel Grandland and the new-generation Astra are both available as plug-in hybrids. Next year, the battery-electric Opel Astra-e will follow – as a five-door and Sports Tourer variant. Offer of emissions-free electric vehicles is rounded off by Opel Rocks-e, an urban electric vehicle for young people from the age of 15.

Twelve electrified Opel models already available in 2022.

Opel Manta to return: New interpretation with electric drive

By mid-decade, Opel will reinvent Manta as a purely electric car. Opel Manta, befitting the times we live in – emissions-free and versatile, a car that fans crave.

New Opel Manta-e

“New Opel Manta will be a highly emotional car once again. With electric power that ensures first-class acceleration on tap. Our Manta will once again stand for pure driving pleasure. We will build a fascinating, astoundingly spacious new interpretation,” said Hochgeschurtz.

Production to start in 2025: Giga factory in Kaiserslautern

Together with partners Total/Saft, Stellantis and Opel founded the “Automotive Cells Company” (ACC). A few months ago, Mercedes-Benz joined this joint venture. With this partnership, the parties are creating a world-class player in the field of developing and producing high-performance batteries for automotive industry. In addition, partners announced that they would increase ACC's industrial capacity in Kaiserslautern to up to 32 GWh. This will see a true giga factory for modern battery cell production created in Kaiserslautern, a traditional location for component and engine production.

Brand with the Blitz: Pioneer of electric mobility

Opel was even ahead of its time when it came to the market launch of electric cars that were fully suitable for everyday use. As early as 2012, an international jury of experts voted the Opel Ampera "Europe's Car of the Year" (COTY). Opel Ampera was a coupé-like four-seater with a so-called range extender. As with today's plug-in hybrids, the battery was charged externally. When driving, a combustion engine combined with a 54 kW generator provided enough electricity at all times. The Ampera could already drive up to 80 kilometres purely electrically - with range extender support, the range grew to around 500 kilometres.

2012: Opel Ampera "Europe's Car of the Year"

A purely battery-electric compact car followed in 2016 with Opel Ampera-e, a car that put an end to range anxiety in one fell swoop. A single charge of the 60 kWh lithium-ion battery covered a distance of up to 520 kilometres (according to NEDC) - at this point around 30 percent more than the closest competitor in the segment. In addition, electric vehicle offered a performance of 150 kW/204 hp and acceleration from zero to 50 km/h in just 3.2 seconds, which is comparable to a sports car. In addition to its liveliness, 4.16-meter-long Opel Ampera‑e impressed with plenty of space for up to five passengers.

2016: Opel Ampera-e

Opel Ampera and Ampera-e were especially popular in the Netherlands and Norway, markets that were already supporting electric car purchases at the time. At the latest with the introduction of the Opel Corsa-e, Opel made affordable electric mobility accessible throughout Europe.

Opel Corsa-e

Zaragoza produces its 11 millionth Opel Corsa since 1982

• Opel Corsa reaches a new milestone in its long relationship with the Zaragoza Plant: 11 millionth unit of this model has just rolled off the assembly line of this production center

• Since 1982, Zaragoza and Opel Corsa are practically synonymous words. Since its inauguration to the present day, the Aragonese factory has manufactured the six generations of this model

• Produced in Aragon exclusively worldwide, Opel Corsa F is the model of the brand best-selling in the world. It stands out both for its attractive and elegant design, as well as for its high level of safety, performance and comfort. These qualities, together with the possibility of opting for a 100% electric version, the Opel Corsa-e, have been key to its commercial success

For almost four decades, Opel Corsa rhymes with Zaragoza. Aragonese plant opened its doors in 1982 to produce this model, with which it has maintained a more than lasting relationship: it has manufactured its six generations and is currently in charge of assembling the Opel Corsa as a world exclusive, including its 100% version. electric, new Opel Corsa-e.

Today, the Zaragoza Plant dresses up to experience a new milestone in its long idyll with the compact Opel urbanite: the 11 millionth unit of the Opel Corsa has left its facilities. A magic number for both the factory and its workers who, in the last 39 years, have seen all these cars pass through the hands and care of generations of operators and engineers.

If all the Opel Corsa produced in Zaragoza since 1982 were lined up, they would go around the world and there would still be enough vehicles to cover the distance between the Aragonese capital and Beirut. A comparison that gives an idea of ​​the importance of this car for the brand of lightning. Since its launch it has been a strategic model in its range. It is the best-selling Opel vehicle, as well as being one of the great pillars of the German firm's electrification process. Currently, it represents more than a third of the brand's registrations on the five continents.

Thanks to this commercial success, Stellantis Plant in Zaragoza has established itself as a key production center for Opel, since the brand's sales leader, New Corsa, and the Opel Crossland, the SUV that follows in the sales ranking.

Launched at the end of 2019, the sixth generation of the Opel Corsa has become a benchmark in the B segment due to its attractive design, its features, its technological equipment and its interior space. Its electric version, the Opel Corsa-e, marks the difference between the zero-emission models in its category thanks to its 359 km of autonomy, its power of 136 HP (100 kW) and its maximum instantaneous torque of 260 Nm, which provides capacity response, agility and dynamic behavior.

It incorporates technologies normally reserved for higher segments, such as the adaptive matrix lighting system IntelliLux LED or advanced driving assistance functions among which the high-tech front camera, traffic sign reader, radar based Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go functionality, sensor based lateral assist or active lane assist.

“Opel Corsa is an iconic model of our brand that is manufactured, exclusively worldwide, in Zaragoza, a city where its production began in 1982. For 40 years, it represents the brand's offer in a key category, segment B, where its six generations have been a benchmark for its modern and dynamic design, for incorporating the most advanced technology of each era, as well as for its comfort and interior space. Reaching 11 million units produced gives us an idea of ​​both the good work of the Zaragoza Plant and the solidity of the Corsa concept, which have succeeded in very diverse times, conditions and markets ”, said Pedro Lazarino , Director of Opel for Spain and Portugal.

“ Present since the inauguration of the factory in 1982, the Opel Corsa is a key model in the history of the Zaragoza Plant, as evidenced by the 11 million units produced at our facilities to date. A figure that says a lot about the maximum level of demand and quality of the factory and the adaptability and commitment of its workers over the years. These qualities have made it possible to produce its sixth generation, built on an innovative multi-energy platform, exclusively worldwide. Quite a challenge that has required a deep modernization of the facilities and manufacturing methods ”, says Manuel Munárriz, Director of the Zaragoza Plant.

Designed in Germany: How All-New Opel Astra Arouses Emotions

• Bold and pure design turns all-new Opel Astra into brand design statement
• Precision in every detail conveys highest quality, inside and out
• All-digital Pure Panel cockpit focuses on essentials

All-new Opel Astra

All-new Opel Astra with its pure and bold design aims to convey high quality in every detail. Sixth Astra generation, which celebrated its world premiere in September, is designed to arouse emotions and achieve the “must-have” effect at first sight. Design and development teams, around 50 per cent of whom are women, set out to make the German carmaker’s new compact model a real “designer piece”, inside and out. 

Bold and pure: All-New Astra reinterprets Opel design philosophy

All-new Opel Astra looks dynamic thanks to the pronounced forward rake of the C-pillar

Following Opel Mokka, Crossland and Grandland SUVs, the new Astra also features the Opel Vizor. New face of the brand and the central exterior design element follows the Opel Compass where the vertical and horizontal axes – the sharp crease in the hood and the wing shaped graphic of the daylight running lamps – intersect with the Opel Blitz emblem in the middle. Stretching across the front, making all-new Astra look even wider, Vizor also seamlessly integrates technologies such as the ultra-slim IntelliLux LED Pixel headlamps. Viewed from the side, the next-generation Astra looks especially dynamic thanks to the pronounced forward rake of the C-pillar.

All-new Opel Astra: Ultra-slim IntelliLux LED Pixel headlamps

At the rear, the Opel Compass is repeated by the centrally mounted Blitz, the vertical high-mounted brake lamp and the tail lamps (energy-saving LEDs, as is all exterior lighting). Blitz emblem also doubles as the latch for the tailgate.

At rear, Opel Compass is repeated by centrally mounted Blitz, vertical high-mounted brake lamp and tail lamps

“German design is for me the simplicity, the pureness and the technical elements in combination”, says Ilka Höbermann. “It is sometimes difficult to keep this pureness and then add the boldness. It's always all about the harmony and the right balance.” Result is a successful mix of clear and emotional styling that makes the all-new Opel Astra stand out from the crowd of compact class models. Characteristic look is underlined by the new metallic paint. “Team developed a super-fresh and modern yellow that adds some juiciness and boldness to the car”, adds the designer.

Cockpit of the future, realised today: All-digital Pure Panel

Right balance for the all-new Opel Astra was particularly important to the Colour and Trim design team, especially for the interior. “We had to think out of the box to find the best solutions for these materials. You have a really high diversity of different colours, textures, graphics and patterns. To bring them all together, this actually the big challenge. It is like a big puzzle. You combine different exciting materials to achieve nice contrast or balance”, explains Ilka Höbermann.

All-digital Pure Panel

Result of this process represents a leap forward in interior design and comfort for the brand. Fully digital cockpit combines two 10-inch widescreen displays and the side air vents for the driver under the horizontally stretched and, depending on the variant, fully glazed surface. Analogue displays are a thing of the past in the all-new Opel Astra. A fully functional, high-tech design that combines style with cutting-edge technologies. Opel Astra drivers and passengers look at the precise glass optics of the Pure Panel and can intuitively operate the new man-machine interface – “visual detox”.

Ultra-modern cockpit is designed to convey an atmosphere in which passengers feel secure. Accents such as the finely crafted controls, reduced to a minimum, and infotainment frames and surfaces in a matt aluminium bring a “big value to the all-new Opel Astra”, says Ilka Höbermann. “They can be just beautiful, they can have a functional aspect and they can even make you smile sometimes.” Every detail – from the Opel Blitz in the centre of the steering wheel to the fabrics and stitching on the AGR-approved ergonomic seats (also available in Alcantara or Nappa leather) – bears the unique signature of Opel's Colour and Trim designers.

Opel leads B-SUV segment in September in Poland

• 6.4 percent Opel brand sales increase in September 
• Opel Mokka is the best-selling model in the B-SUV segment
• 21% market share of Opel Mokka and Opel Crossland in the B-SUV segment
• New Opel Grandland will strengthen the brand's position in the C-SUV segment

Opel Mokka GS Line & Opel Mokka-e

Opel brand recorded very good sales results for passenger cars and vans on the Polish market in the past month. Brand's total sales in September 2021 were up 6.4 percent. more than in the corresponding period of the previous year - 1,825 copies. Market share increased by 0.81 pp. from 4.22 percent a year ago to 5.03 percent today [1].

Opel Mokka-e

Opel SUVs recorded very good results in September. Exciting Opel Mokka, with 541 units sold, became the leader of the B-SUV segment in September with an impressive share of 13.8%. Second representative of the brand in the B-SUV category - practical Opel Crossland - was also very popular with customers . September sales of this model amounted to 290 units, which allowed for an increase in the segment's share by 0.8 pp. from 6.6% a year ago to 7.4 percent.

Opel Crossland

Very good sales results of the Mokka and Crossland allowed the Opel brand to become the leader of the B-SUV segment in September, with a total share exceeding 21%.

“Thanks to the wide range of new, attractive SUVs and the very good availability of cars in the brand showrooms, we recorded a significant increase in sales and Opel's share in the Polish market in September. High popularity of the Opel Mokka and Crossland among our customers has also made us a leader in the B-SUV segment. " - said Adam Męciński, Opel brand director in Poland. "Despite the difficulties associated with the global shortage of semiconductors, affecting also the Polish market, Opel customers in Poland have a wide selection of models available" on the spot "at authorized dealerships of our brand" - he added.

Opel's success in September is the result of, among other things, the current model offensive of the German brand with a strong representation of the popular SUVs in the range - Crossland, Mokka and flagship Grandland. Latter will soon make its debut on the Polish market in a completely new version, strengthening the brand's position in the C-SUV segment. New Opel Grandland will be available with bold styling with the new face of the Opel Vizor brand, a digital cockpit with Opel Pure Panel widescreen displays, advanced technology and a wide range of powertrains, including the flagship plug-in hybrid, diesel and gasoline engines.

New Opel Grandland

[1] Data according to PZPM based on CEP (Central Vehicle Register)

Opel significantly increases market share in Germany in the first quarter

• March sixth consecutive month of market share growth
• Volume is also increasing significantly
• Sales of electrified models more than doubled in Q1
• Guarantors of success Opel Corsa and new Opel Crossland
• New Opel Mokka will provide further impetus

Opel Corsa 

Opel's upward trend in the important German home market continues: In March, the brand with the Blitz achieved a car market share of 6.5 percent - almost one and a half percentage points more than in the previous year. March was the sixth month in a row with higher market shares compared to the previous year. In the first quarter, Opel achieved a car market share of 6.35 percent.

Volume in the first quarter was noticeably influenced by the effects of the ongoing corona pandemic, but new Opel registrations also increased significantly in March - by 75 percent to almost 19,000 cars. In March 2020 it had the first corona-related Lockdown given in Germany.

New Opel Crossland

Guarantee of success was once again Germany's most popular small car, Opel Corsa. In the first quarter, the model - as the Corsa-e winner of the “Golden Steering Wheel 2020” in the small car category - sold a total of around 12,770 times. That is an increase of almost 20 percent. New edition of the compact Opel Crossland SUV also contributed to Opel's successful performance and was newly registered around 2,040 times in March alone (+90.5 percent). New Opel Mokka, which has only been available from dealers since the end of February, was registered more than 3,700 times in the first quarter.

New Opel Mokka-e

Opel is also continuing to grow in light commercial vehicles: around 1,700 new registrations in March mean an increase of 45 percent, so that the total market share in Germany rose to more than 6.3 percent in the first quarter.

Brand with the lightning bolt also continued to grow in electrified models: a total of around 4,850 electrified Opel (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles) were newly registered in Germany in the first quarter. This corresponds to an increase of around 2,900 units or a good 150 percent compared to the same period of the previous year. Around every tenth Opel sold in Germany is a battery-electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid. Opel Corsa-e (around 2,110 units; +233 percent) and the Mokka-e (around 610 units) were particularly successful.

Opel Corsa-e

“For six months now, Opel has been on a growth course in terms of market share - and that in a difficult environment. Consistent focus on future-proof new models such as the Corsa, the Crossland and the Mokka is paying off, ”says Opel Germany boss Andreas Marx. “We want to build on the success of the first quarter as the year progresses. New Opel Mokka and the new Crossland will provide important impetus to continue our growth path. "