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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Opel celebrates ‘60 Years of Opel in Kaiserslautern’ on June 20

• June 3, 1966: Official opening of the Opel plant in Kaiserslautern
• Ongoing success story: Site today as an important parts supplier in the group
• June 20, 2026: Open day with employees, families and the public
• Attractive anniversary programme: Live music, activities for young and old as well as guided tours in the press shop and component production
• Tradition with a future: Exhibition of Opel vintage cars and current models including test drive opportunity plus high-performance concept car Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo

On June 3, 1966, the Opel plant in Kaiserslautern was officially opened. In the years and decades that followed, the site first developed into an important powertrain plant and then to a key component plant in the group. Today, it supplies more than 20 Stellantis sites all over the world. Currently, more than 30 models from seven Stellantis brands contain components from Kaiserslautern.

 The successful history and development of the plant into a state-of-the-art production site is a reason to celebrate. On June 20, 2026, Opel will open the gates to the public for the big anniversary of ‘60 years of Opel in Kaiserslautern’. At the open day, employees, their families and friends as well as all Opel fans can get to know the site from a completely different perspective and take a look behind the scenes.

“Opel and Kaiserslautern have been inextricably linked for 60 years now and we want to celebrate this anniversary! Visitors can expect hours full of surprises, various experiences and new insights. I would like to thank our employees in particular, without whom this success in Kaiserslautern would not have been possible. Come by and experience what Opel stands for in Kaiserslautern,” said plant manager Bilyana Stern.

The anniversary programme on June 20 starts in the morning at 10.00 CEST. Throughout the day, visitors will gain an insight into everyday production and tasks on site as well as into the current Opel and further Stellantis models. They can experience the processes in the press shop and component production on an interesting tour. After all, around 400 different components are manufactured in Kaiserslautern. More than 350,000 parts produced here leave the plant every day in all directions of Europe, where they are then installed in a wide variety of Opel and Stellantis models – the top-of-the-line SUV Opel Grandland alone contains over 100 parts that are manufactured in Kaiserslautern.

 

 From classic cars to high-performance studies: Opel models in all their facets

On the open day, visitors can get to know various vehicles better and experience them for themselves during a test drive, for example – first and foremost, the new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer. The latest variants of the compact class bestseller were designed and developed at the headquarters in Rüsselsheim and are also built there. The top-of-the-range SUV Opel Grandland – produced at the Eisenach site and thus also ‘made in Germany’ – will be available to Opel fans in Kaiserslautern on the anniversary day, too.

Furthermore, the stunning Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo will certainly be an eye-catcher. With a system output of 588 kW (800 hp), 800 Newton metres of torque, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.0 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h, the concept car stands for pure electric high performance. At the same time, the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo is the brand's first concept car to merge the digital and real worlds. Visitors can also experience this live at the factory party – by driving the electric car themselves in the Gran Turismo 7 racing simulator.

If guests prefer to reminisce about their own childhood, they can visit the vintage car exhibition. Especially for the event, Opel Classic is bringing some special treasures from the Rüsselsheim collection to Kaiserslautern. Here, too, everything is under the motto ‘pure high performance’. The exhibits include rarities such as the Grand Prix racing car from 1913 as the oldest vehicle as well as an Opel Rekord B, which the former German national football coach Sepp Herberger bought in 1966, the year the Opel plant in Kaiserslautern officially opened. The Group 5 special touring car based on the Rekord C, known to fans as the ‘Black Widow’, completes the range – as does the legendary 500 hp 2.5-litre V6 ‘Cliff’ Calibra, with which Manuel Reuter and Opel secured victory in the International Touring Car Championship ITC in 1996, as well as the prototype Astra OPC X-Treme V8 with 444 hp and gull-wing doors from 2001. Other Opel classics from private hands round off the exhibition offer.

Already in the late morning, following the official speeches, there will be an autograph session with a 1. FC Kaiserslautern legend. Who this will be remains a surprise until the day of the event. And for all early risers, the first highlight of the day will take place at around 8.30 CEST when the 4th ADAC Trifels Oldtimerwanderung of the Sportfahrer Union Kaiserslautern starts at the factory premises.

Elsewhere, a varied children's and family programme will be provided throughout the anniversary day. Whether it is a bouncy castle, go-kart and obstacle courses, a mini-kart track, painting cars, goal wall shooting or different games of skill – there will be plenty on offer for young and old alike. The programme is rounded off by the chance to visit the factory locomotive and the factory fire brigade’s fleet of vehicles. A variety of culinary delights and live music with the band ‘Roof Rabbits’ will further get everyone in the right mood. Exciting information about Opel as an employer is also provided by the Opel vocational training team. And if guests want to take home a souvenir of this special day, they will find a large selection at the Opel merchandising booth. The factory will close its doors again at 16.00 CEST, giving visitors plenty of opportunity to experience Opel in many facets at the Kaiserslautern site.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leading cooperatively: Setting the framework, strengthening personal responsibility

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

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

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

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

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

Future Starts Today: Opel Welcomes New Apprentices

• Career start for 149 new apprentices at four Opel sites in Germany
• Opel recognised twice as ‘Training Champion 2025’ in the automotive industry
• Future opportunities based on tradition: 160 years of vocational training at Opel

Today marks a very special moment for 149 young people who are starting their professional careers at Opel. And the manufacturer welcomed its new apprentices at a festive welcome event at Opel's headquarters in Rüsselsheim.

In total, 100 young employees are starting their training in Rüsselsheim, 30 in Kaiserslautern, 12 in Eisenach and 7 in Bochum. They can expect modern and practical training in various technical, commercial and IT professions, as well as in dual study programmes.

Opel’s outstanding offer in vocational training is undisputed and the company was recently named ‘Training Champion 2025’ by the renowned F.A.Z. Institute and the analysis and consulting company ServiceValue – both in classic training and in the field of dual studies. Opel took the top spot among car manufacturers in both categories.

The extraordinary commitment to vocational training has a long tradition at Opel. As a leading training company in Germany, Opel has been opening up attractive future prospects for young people for 160 years – an anniversary that was recently honoured at the plant festival in Rüsselsheim. More than 27,000 young people have successfully completed their training at the company's German sites since the times of company founder Adam Opel.

“The fact that so many young talents have once again decided to start their vocational training at Opel this year fills us with great joy and pride,” said Opel Managing Director Human Resources and Labour Director Ralph Wangemann. “Sound training is the key to professional success – and we offer both modern learning conditions and a wide range of prospects for starting a career. The fact that Opel has twice been named ‘Training Champion 2025’ in the automotive industry is a recognition of the great commitment of our entire team and a strong signal to all those who want to shape their future with us.”

Opel focuses on future-oriented job profiles in its vocational training: In Rüsselsheim, eight apprenticeships and four dual study programmes are currently offered. Two new courses will be added in 2025/2026: Automotive Mechatronics Technician for Body Technology and a cooperative Bachelor of Engineering course in mechatronics with industrial mechanical training. Courses such as Applied Computer Science also reflect the company's technological focus.

And the next chapter is already beginning: The application process for the 2026/27 training year has already started. All important information about training and study opportunities at Opel – in Rüsselsheim as well as at the Kaiserslautern, Eisenach and Bochum sites – can be found here or directly from the contact persons at ausbildung@opel.com

Start of professional life for 170 apprentices at Opel

• High-quality and contemporary training in ten apprenticeships and six degree courses
• Training offer aligned with Opel’s electric strategy
• Close integration of theory and practice during training

Welcome to Opel: A total of 170 young people starting their vocational training today at Opel's German locations, 120 of them at the headquarters in Rüsselsheim alone. 28 newcomers began their vocational training at the Kaiserslautern plant, 15 at the Eisenach location and seven at the Bochum logistics center.

Opel offers its new employees attractive future prospects and career opportunities in the company in ten apprenticeships and six courses of study. The training offered is geared to the specific future needs of the respective location. Practice and theory are always closely intertwined. During their training, the young people work on specific projects for various departments of the company. This means that they are directly involved in day-to-day business and learn about important procedures and processes at an early stage.

"Our young skilled workers start a solid training course at Opel under the most modern conditions, supervised by a committed and experienced training team. We have continuously and consistently aligned our training program with Opel's electric strategy and the changes in the automotive industry. That is why topics such as electrification and automation as well as networking and artificial intelligence are playing an increasingly important role," explains Ralph Wangemann, Managing Director of Human Resources and Director of Labor at Opel, who welcomed the trainees at the Rüsselsheim site.

The dual degree programs with a focus on computer science, IT and electromobility also address the important future topics that accompany the transformation in the automotive industry. This year, the degree programs "Applied Computer Science" and "Computer Science - Technical Computer Science" have also been added.

Training at the German brand Opel has traditionally stood for high quality. 162 years ago, the first trainee began his apprenticeship with company founder Adam Opel. Since then, around 27,000 young people have completed their training at one of the company's German locations.

And Opel is already writing the next chapter of this success story, as the application process for the 2025 training year has already started. Here  you can find all the important information about vocational training at Opel.

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.

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

E for emissions-free: Opel with Consistent Focus on Electrification

• From 2022: Opel Combo Life, Vivaro Combi and Zafira Life exclusively with electric drive
• Until the end of the year: Environmental bonus of €9,000 extended in Germany
• As of 2024 already: Electrified version of each Opel model
• From 2028: Exclusively battery-electric passenger cars in Europe

Opel is continuing to consistently roll out its electrification offensive in the New Year. Eleven Opel models will be electrified by mid-2022 – including Opel’s entire light commercial vehicle (LCV) range. En route to an emissions-free fleet, some models will exclusively be offered as battery-electric variants this year already. Customers can now order the Opel Combo Life, Vivaro Combi and Zafira Life exclusively with an electric drive. In Germany, the state and manufacturers jointly subsidise the purchase of electric cars with up to €9,000. Innovation bonus is still valid in this form until the end of 2022. A corresponding application for the environmental bonus must be submitted to the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA).

“There is no alternative to electrification. In the future, Opel will gain even more traction with environmentally friendly innovations. And what shows us the rapid change again very clearly: From 2024, we will offer an electrified version of every Opel model, without exception. In other words, the successors to Opel Crossland and Opel Insignia will also be electrified. Our statement is clear: From 2028, we will exclusively sell battery-electric vehicles in Europe,” said Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz.

New Opel Astra Hybrid

In the coming months, the new generation of the Opel Astra will be the linchpin of the Rüsselsheim-based brand’s electrification offensive. After celebrating its premiere in September 2021, all-new Opel Astra five-door will arrive at customers in the spring – and will be available as a plug-in hybrid right from the start. In 2023, the purely battery-electric Opel Astra-e will complete the range. Emissions-free product portfolio with the Blitz already ranges from the Opel Rocks-e lightweight vehicle to the large Opel Movano-e van.

New Opel Movano-e van

Opel Combo-e Life and the Opel Zafira-e Life are already very successful in the market. Both MPVs are powered by a 100 kW/136 hp electric motor. With its 50 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Combo-e-Life achieves a range of up to 280 kilometres in accordance with the WLTP 1, depending on the driving profile, outside temperature and use. When necessary, it takes around only 30 minutes for the battery to reach 80 per cent state-of-charge at a public DC fast charging station.

Opel Combo-e Life

With the large Opel Zafira-e Life, the customer can choose between a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery (231 kilometres range according to WLTP 1) and a battery with 75 kWh for a first-class range of up to 329 kilometres according to WLTP 1. Opel Zafira-e Life is available in three vehicle lengths with space for up to nine people.

 Opel Zafira-e Life

In addition to plug-in hybrid and battery-electric models, Opel can also already offer a plug-in fuel cell electric vehicle. Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is based on the existing battery electric Opel Vivaro-e, the “International Van of the Year 2021”. Newcomer has a fuel cell drive combined with a plug-in battery and with full tanks of hydrogen, the driving range is more than 400 kilometres (WLTP 1). First Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN off the production line will begin its emissions-free work in the fleet of the German manufacturer of premium domestic appliances, Miele.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

However, Opel is not only on the way to a CO2-neutral future with its models and drive alternatives – something the brand is currently proving at several locations. This year, Opel and Stellantis are pushing ahead with the plans to build the battery cell gigafactory in Kaiserslautern. And in Rüsselsheim, the project is taking shape to transform the Opel headquarters into a green campus as the future German headquarters of Stellantis.

[1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

Technology for economical cars: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller inaugurates hot-forming plant in Kaiserslautern

• Hot-forming steel enables the production of high-strength body parts
• Requirements for crash safety and lightweight construction in harmony
• CO2 emissions while driving are reduced thanks to consistent lightweight construction

Innovative technology for light and economical cars: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller officially commissioned a state-of-the-art facility for hot-forming steel at the Kaiserslautern site on Thursday. This process is used to manufacture high-strength components for car bodies. Hot-formed components significantly reduce the weight of a body without compromising safety. This also makes vehicles lighter overall and emits less fuel and CO2 .

“We are very pleased about the commissioning of this modern system for hot forming of steel in Kaiserslautern. By manufacturing and processing high-strength components for car bodies, the material thickness and thus the weight of the vehicle can be reduced - without compromising on safety. This lowers the CO2 emissions. This system is therefore another important component in our goal of offering efficient cars for clean driving fun, ”said Opel boss Michael Lohscheller.

In the past few months, the complete press line 2, two incorporation machines and the waste belts in the press cellar were dismantled in the K-19 press shop at the production site in the west of the Palatinate. This created space for the new hot forming system, which includes a press table weighing around 80 tons, an oven around 40 meters long and a 25-meter high chimney.

With hot forming, the sheet to be processed is slowly heated to a temperature of around 930 degrees Celsius over several minutes in an oven. The hot sheet is then placed in the tool and cooled very quickly during the pressing process. This gives it its high strength. Another advantage of the process is that the steel can be formed better.

Plant manager Thierry Vingtans: “We are delighted with the investment in the hot forming system at the Kaiserslautern location. This shows that the plant continues to play an important role in the company's production network. The parts that we manufacture here will in future be built into several vehicle models from various Group brands - including the new Opel Mokka. "

Big Jubilee on Rails: Opel Works Railway is 100

Happy birthday: a century in service of smooth and efficient logistics

Opel works railway is celebrating its 100th birthday. However, the soot-black steam engines that first chuffed along the lines in 1920 are long forgotten. Current generation of bright yellow locomotives are in every sense much cleaner and continue to make an important contribution to the company’s efficient logistics.

A clever location

Founder Adam Opel had already chosen a location close to the Rüsselsheim station for his new factory in 1868. Fifty years later, after decades of successful expansion in the production of sewing machines, bicycles and cars, his sons realised how beneficial it would be if the company had its own rail link. After all, the delivery of raw materials and components are just as important as transporting finished products from the plant. Therefore, in 1918, Carl von Opel got in touch with the Königlich Preußischen und Großherzoglich Hessischen Eisenbahndirektion in Mainz. His plans found approval and two years later, the first of the company’s own shunting locomotives hit the rails – from then on, it was full steam ahead for the Opel works railway.

Linked to the whole of Europe

First locomotives were still steam driven. Oldest on record was from the Hohenzollern locomotive factory in Düsseldorf. Opel acquired the Oberkassel-type shunter, produced in 1914, from the Dormagen sugar factory. Like all Opel works locomotives, it had a “normal” track width of 1,435 millimetres, which is still the standard width today in Europe, North Africa, North America and China. Tracks in Rüsselsheim were therefore compatible from the very beginning with the international rail network.

“Traversers” move into Rüsselsheim

Rüsselsheim plant took an important step towards modern logistics in 1929, when Opel’s very own railway station, with a 7,000 m2 freight yard and six tracks, went into operation. Three tracks were equipped with specially designed “traversers” (transfer tables for loading cars onto transporter trains, which could load around 300 cars in a single eight-hour shift). A mobile underslung crane, capable of carrying five tons, was available for general cargo. Building replaced the previously used hall on the grounds of the Reichsbahn and quickly became the key to continued successful growth.

Diesel replaces steam

Age of steam lasted only briefly at Opel. Two brand new diesels joined the locomotive fleet in 1927. Deutz PMZ 203 R machines produced by Motorenfabrik Oberursel featured 55hp two-cylinder, two-stroke engines. An 83 hp PMD 230 R joined them in 1928, followed in 1942 by a coal gas powered Deutz GA6M 420 R with six-cylinder engine. Brandenburg plant, which opened in 1935, also possessed its own rail link and a Deutz diesel locomotive.

Opel retired all its steam engines in 1948. It took until 1977 for the Deutsche Bahn (DB) to take the same step in modernization, until 1988 in East Germany. After the Second World War, Opel started over with exclusively new machines. First to arrive was a Gmeinder N 130 in 1946, followed by five brand new Deutz locomotives between 1952 and 1961. Additional machines from Orestein & Koppel came in 1965/66.

Works railway expanded alongside the steady growth of the Rüsselsheim plant. K100 railway loading building replaced the Opel station. In 1973, the internal rail network was 23.5 kilometres long, including 50 loading areas as well as 126 points and crossings.

Just in time

Opel works railway has always been characterised by two things. First, the Opel locomotives deliver and collect DB waggons on public tracks, which requires a lot of coordination. Second, the rail movements around the plant are tricky because around half the rails are on roads also used by drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. That requires high concentration from the head of Opel’s railway, Ulrich Knissel and his team.

Just-in-time delivery has added more challenges in the last few decades. Exactly timed production process also demands high precision from the works railway. Much of the transportation of components between plants still takes place via rail as well – especially in the case of the Kaiserslautern plant.

Well cared for

All Opel’s locomotives are regularly serviced in the company’s own workshops. Strict rules and regulations must be followed. In the 100th year of the Opel works railway, there are still five locomotives in service in Rüsselsheim. Bright yellow fleet consists of two massive Henschel DHG 500 C, two MaK G 321 and one O&K MB 10 N. Three more O&K locomotives are based in Kaiserslautern.