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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[1] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Opel Mokka GSE Rally: Future of Electric Rallying Starts Now!

• Pioneer: Opel Mokka GSE Rally is first vehicle to be developed according to FIA’s new eRally5 regulations
• Eye-catching prototype: With ‘OMG! GSE’ foiling, strong colours and special wheels
• Top performance: 207 kW (280 hp) and 345 Nm of torque
• Motorsport technology: Bilstein rally suspension, racing gearbox, lightweight chassis
• Rally premiere: Opel Mokka GSE Rally celebrates debut at ELE Rally Eindhoven on May 23/24

ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’ has just made a successful start to its fifth season. To this day, the rally series is the world's only all-electric rally one-make cup, but Opel is already looking to the future. Because the manufacturer is giving a preview of what the electric rally car of tomorrow could look like with the new Opel Mokka GSE Rally – also in an exciting and electrifying video. With 207 kW (280 hp), the powerful prototype once again underlines the pioneering role that Opel plays in electric rallying.

“For more than four years, Opel and the ADAC have been demonstrating that electric rallying works and excites. With our new Opel Mokka GSE Rally, we are offering a glimpse of a fully electric next generation rally car. Thanks to the latest motorsport technology the prototype offers strong performance and power aplenty,” said Opel and Vauxhall CEO Florian Huettl.

Opel Mokka GSE Rally: Goosebumps, sportiness and electrifying euphoria

Serial production Opel Mokka is already an exciting head turner with its characteristic design, new colours, new cockpit and top technologies. New Opel Mokka GSE Rally retains much of this – and represents the next big step especially for all-electric rallying: it is stronger, faster, more uncompromising in every respect!

From the outside, Opel Mokka GSE Rally is an absolute eye-catcher: With its extraordinary motorsport foiling including large ‘OMG! GSE’ lettering. In addition, there are yellow brake calipers at the front and yellow rims at the rear, as well as other rally design accents. There is a clearly visible air intake on the roof and "Mokka GSE RALLY" is emblazoned in white and yellow lettering on the black bonnet.

Elsewhere, the inner values of the prototype with the Blitz are even more impressive: an electric peak power output of 207 kW (280 hp) and torque of 345 Newton metres, combined with sophisticated motorsport technology, promise performance on a par with a Rally4 car. A multi-plate limited-slip differential and a racing gearbox, together with reinforced drive shafts and wheel hubs, provide powerful propulsion. The chassis was manufactured in a lightweight design. The perfectly tuned rally suspension from Bilstein consists of reinforced McPherson struts and uniball mounts on the front axle as well as a rigid rear axle with modified springs and dampers. Electronic driving aids such as ABS, ESP, lane-keep assist and traction control are all absent on Opel Mokka GSE Rally. Based on the experience gained from the Opel Corsa Rally Electric, the software tuning for the engine and battery management has been designed for maximum efficiency, driveability under competitive conditions and performance. The battery corresponds to the series version with a storage capacity of 54 kWh.

“The Mokka GSE Rally will make Opel Motorsport fans’ hearts beat faster and give them real ‘OMG! GSE’ moments. The electric rally prototype proves that our GSE sub-brand will hit the next level in 2025: with electric thrills and high-level performance true to our rich motorsport heritage,”, said Rebecca Reinermann, Vice President Marketing at Opel and Vauxhall.

Elsewhere, the extremely high safety standards have been retained. Like the Opel Corsa Rally Electric, the Opel Mokka GSE Rally also has a roll cage (certified by the FIA), rally seats with six-point seatbelts, a special encapsulation of the battery and an additional underride guard. The 400-volt system is continuously monitored by the proven Master Alarm Indicator. In the unlikely event of an insulation issue, a visual and acoustic warning system immediately reports a malfunction. In the event of a sudden deceleration (such as in a collision), a sophisticated sensor system completely shuts down the high-voltage system in a few tenths of a second. In addition, Opel Mokka GSE Rally has a special extinguishing system with electrically non-conductive extinguishing agent.

And: Opel Mokka GSE Rally is the world's first rally car currently being developed according to the FIA's new eRally5 regulations. The fast prototype could thus be used worldwide in multiple customer sport competitions from the 2026 rally season.

From vision to reality: Electric rally brand sport works and inspires

Opel Mokka GSE Rally thus represents the next possible development stage for all-electric rally one-make racing. Since the 2021 season, Opel has been proving: Electric rally racing works and inspires! The Corsa Rally Electric, which is used in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’, has proven to be a fast, reliable and safe electric rally car. The near-production technology, especially for the high-voltage components such as the electric motor, inverter and battery, effortlessly masters the extreme demands of rallying. The same applies to the innovative charging infrastructure, with which Opel always reliably supplies the nimble electric rally cars on site with sustainable energy.

Acceptance and interest in the world's first electric one-make rally cup has been growing from year to year since the beginning. Since the debut season in 2021, a total of 63 drivers from 13 nations have taken part in one of the 33 Cup races in six countries so far. The next round of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’ 2025 will take place on May 23/24 as part of the ELE Rally in Eindhoven. Visitors of the Opel Motorsport service park can take a closer look at the Opel Mokka GSE Rally prototype which will celebrate its rally premiere in the Netherlands.

New Assistance Systems Mandatory from July: Opel Models are Ready

• Safety first: Many assistance systems already standard in best-selling Opel Corsa small car
• Best vision: IntelliLux Pixel HD Light with over 50,000 elements in all-new Opel Grandland
• Always one step ahead: Opel models have always featured groundbreaking technologies

From July 7, 2024, EU will make additional assistance systems mandatory for new registrations of passenger cars (class M1) and light commercial vehicles (class N1). The aim is to reduce the number of accidents on the roads and thus save lives. Opel is well positioned here. For the passenger car models from the Corsa to the Combo, Mokka and Astra to the Grandland, as well as for the new generation of light commercial vehicles (LCV) Opel Combo, Vivaro and Movano, the manufacturer offers numerous advanced electronic assistants that make traffic safer for drivers and passengers as well as for all other road users. New Opel LCV vans will in future be equipped with up to 21 assistance systems – segment leading! And even in the small car bestseller Opel Corsa, many systems are already on board as standard, well ahead of the legal requirement. “Safety first” is Opel's motto when developing new vehicles: this is once again demonstrated by the recently introduced new Opel Grandland, which will soon be available to order, for example with its industry-leading IntelliLux Pixel HD Light. Safety is a tradition at Opel and has been for 125 years of automobile production in Rüsselsheim.

Emergency braking, lane keep assist, speed assistant: Already standard at Opel

In addition to the systems that have long been required by law, new cars registered from July onwards must also have additional assistants on board. These include emergency braking assistant, intelligent speed assistant, lane departure warning system, reversing assistant and drowsiness detection. An emergency brake light and a “black box” data recorder are also among the mandatory features in the future.

Opel has been offering many of the systems mentioned for its models for years. Safety features for the brand with the Blitz are not a question of vehicle class. Even the smallest in the portfolio, Germany's best-selling small car of several years, Opel Corsa, offers numerous assistance systems as standard. The extensive range of modern electronic helpers already includes:

• Forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection: It monitors distance to vehicle in front. If Opel Corsa approaches a vehicle in front or a pedestrian too quickly, driver is informed by a warning tone and a display in driver information display. If there is a risk of collision, system initiates emergency braking, and at speeds below 30 km/h even to a complete standstill. System is also available in combination with cyclist detection.
• Intelligent cruise control and limiter: In conjunction with traffic sign recognition, the system allows the speed to be quickly adjusted.
• Lane keep assist: If the driver unintentionally leaves the lane (between 65 and 180 km/h), an indicator light appears in the driver information display. Lane keep assistant also draws attention to the danger by gently temporarily counteracting the steering. As an option, Corsa and Co. can also be equipped with active lane keep Assist. This actively keeps the vehicle in the previously selected position within the lane by gently and continuously counter-steering (both hands on the steering wheel are mandatory!).
• Drowsiness detection: System detects signs of fatigue in the driver based on the steering behaviour and the length of the journey and issues a visual and acoustic warning that increases in three stages.
• Adaptive brake light and
• Parking pilot at rear.

Additional systems provide an even more comprehensive overview when manoeuvring, including the combination of front and rear parking sensors with audio-visual warning and the 130-degree or optional 180-degree rear view camera (also the 360-degree camera on the Astra and Grandland). In addition, the side blind spot alert, which is standard or optional depending on the equipment level, further increases safety with a symbol in the respective exterior mirror that warns of approaching vehicles. Also, the optional automatic speed assistant with stop function ensures that the set speed and the distance to the vehicle in front are maintained in accordance with the traffic situation. The car brakes automatically if necessary and accelerates again as soon as the distance to the vehicle in front increases again. In combination with automatic transmission, the system also has a Stop & Go function, so that the vehicle is automatically braked to a standstill in the event of danger and can independently follow the vehicle in front even in traffic jams.

Compact class bestseller Opel Astra and top SUV Opel Grandland combine many of the above-mentioned assistants in Intelli-Drive system and expand the range to include the rear cross-traffic alert system. This uses radar sensors to detect moving objects when reversing (from pedestrians and cyclists to motorcycles, cars and trucks) and warns with visual and acoustic signals.

Optimal illumination of the road ahead is crucial for a safe and relaxed journey in poor visibility conditions. Opel has been a pioneer in this area for years with its adaptive IntelliLux technology, which is now being used for the first time in the new Combo. The latest lighting innovation from Rüsselsheim is celebrating its premiere in all-new Opel Grandland: the industry-leading IntelliLux Pixel Matrix HD Light. For the first time, the system has more than 50,000 elements and enables high-resolution light distribution. Depending on the traffic situation, the camera detects road users ahead and oncoming traffic, and IntelliLux Pixel Matrix HD Light cuts them out even more precisely than previous matrix light technologies. The system delivers an even brighter and more even light distribution without glare for others.

Safety for all: New Opel Grandland, Astra, Corsa and Co. in best tradition

Offering the highest safety standards for everyone – that is what the Opel brand has always stood for. This began 125 years ago with the Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann”, which had chain-controlled steering for smooth, precise operation. In the years and decades that followed, developments such as the Opel 10 PS with four-wheel brakes and the unitary all-steel body of the Opel Olympia 1935 followed.

Opel Rekord C was also an innovation in 1967 – with coil springs on the rear axle, disc brakes at the front, brake booster and, above all, the Opel safety steering, in which the collapsible steering column protected against serious injuries to the head and chest in the event of a collision. As early as 1973, the manufacturer equipped all models with seat belts as standard. In Opel Astra F, seatbelt tensioners ensured that the belt was pulled tight by up to 16 centimetres in milliseconds in the event of an impact, thus keeping the passenger safely in their seat.

In 1993, Opel Corsa B celebrated a double premiere of increased safety: double steel beam reinforcements in the doors for side impact protection and the full-size driver airbag further minimized the risk of injury. In 1995, Opel was the first German car manufacturer to introduce full-size airbags for the driver and front passenger as standard in all new cars.

Painting with Light: Opel Experimental Can See in Dark

• German Energy: Opel Experimental fills brand pillars with new life
• Pioneering: Innovative brand concept shows future of intelligent light
• Deep learning: Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help cars recognise danger sooner

Visionary Opel Experimental, which CEO Florian Huettl presented to public for first time at last year's IAA Mobility in Munich, gives a glimpse of  brand's future. This can be characterised in three words: 

• Greenovation: Opel Experimental is fully electric with a reduced carbon footprint
• Detox: It is bold and pure in design; and focussed on essentials
• Modern German: It impresses with its proportions, intelligent aerodynamics, highly efficient use of space and state-of-art lighting technology, including for first time illuminated Opel Blitz logo

Opel Experimental expresses this German Energy in Painting with Light video. It takes viewers on a night-time experiment and shows future lighting technologies. At same time, it demonstrates that future innovative lighting technology will be capable of much more than simply illuminated road and surrounding area. It will increase safety and comfort while also sparking emotions.

IntelliLux LED: Democratisation of lighting technologies has long tradition at Opel

Making pioneering lighting technologies available to customers is a long-standing tradition at Opel. This is demonstrated by the continuous development of IntelliLux LED Matrix and Pixel Light, which Opel offers for many models, from Corsa to Astra, Mokka and Grandland to new Combo. Thanks to adaptive IntelliLux LED headlights, Opel drivers always have optimum vision in the dark, without dazzling other road users.

“Development is making great strides here,” says Philipp Röckl, Global Lead Complex Lighting at Stellantis. “A few years ago we were able to hide individual 'blocks of light', but areas that need to be hidden can now be captured more precisely and seamlessly.” This is made possible by, among other things, micro-LED-based HD pixel systems that have an even higher resolution than before and also offer highest level of energy efficiency. “In addition, we will have to think about light digitally in the future. Today's standard lighting control modules are no longer sufficient given high number of pixels. We are already working on vehicle architectures that enable graphical representation of light,” adds Röckl.

Electrochromic materials and AI: Lighting is more than “just” headlights

Ground-breaking Opel Experimental, a symbol of “German Energy”, shows what this future can look like – inside as well as outside. In  interior, electrochromic materials immerse passengers in atmospheric light and thus convey a feel-good factor. Reactive materials also have practical properties. For example, if a vehicle, cyclist or pedestrian is in blind spot of Opel Experimental, a coloured warning appears on inside of respective door as well as in head-up display. In addition, external side view recorded by cameras is projected onto inner door surface. This creates a visual “transparency effect” that allows a view outside to further increase visibility. New reactive technology can lift the mood and increase feel-good factor in cabin while also improving safety of driver, passengers and other road users with atmospherically changing light. This is exactly what Opel calls “Painting with Light”.

In “Painting with Light” video, Opel Experimental also shows how future lighting technology can expand view in completely extraordinary ways. Thanks to immersive, digital safety technologies, vehicles like Opel Experimental can recognise pedestrians quickly – and more clearly than ever before. Augmented reality-based technology then pulsates as a warning signal and displays other important messages and signals for drivers and road users through holograms.

“We want to optimise light for the driver and also for the camera, so that with help of AI it can recognize people and animals even better,” explains Röckl. Lighting, camera and sensor technology as well as algorithms must work together for future development so that car's predictive and therefore safety-enhancing capabilities can be optimised in every situation.

Opel Pixel Vizor with clear statements: Light as communications tool

Opel has already shown with award-winning Manta GSe how light signals can arouse emotions and increase safety. Wherever ultra-modern one-off in retro look appears, it attracts admiring glances. This is due not least to innovative Opel Pixel Vizor at front of Opel Manta GSe. Vehicle can communicate with its surroundings via Pixel Vizor. Statements like “My German heart has been ELECTRified” or “I am on a zero e‑mission” are written across front.

Engineers are continuously working on this "light communication of future" to increase safety of all road users. New, atmospheric “Painting with Light” video already gives an indication of how these developments could look like in future.

Opel Increases Global Sales by a Strong 15% in 2023

• High proportion of electric vehicles: Sales increase of 22% for electric vehicles
• Internationalisation strategy working: 62% increase outside of Europe
• Considerable light commercial vehicle growth: Sales up by 26% 
• Strong growth in the C-segment: Astra and Grandland sales up by 57% 

Opel grew significantly in 2023 with a sales increase of 15%. This is the highest percentage growth rate in more than 20 years. Global sales were up to around 670,000 vehicles giving the German manufacturer its highest registration numbers in four years.

Opel closed 2023 with a market share of around 5.3% on its home market of Germany. In the UK, Vauxhall recorded a market share of six percent. Opel is also very successful in Turkey with a market share of six percent.

“We can look back on a very strong year in 2023. Opel has grown considerably. We have made significant gains, particularly in electric vehicles, across the C-segment and light commercial vehicles. We were also able to significantly expand our international business. This is clear evidence that our strategy is working,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

High proportion of electric vehicles: Sales increase of  22% for electric vehicles

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) were extremely well received by customers. Around 90,000 BEVs sold represent a significant increase of 22 percent compared to previous year. This impressively demonstrates success of Opel’s electrification offensive.

Internationalisation strategy working: 62% increase outside of Europe

Opel grew strongly outside of EU 29 markets last year and increased sales by around 62% to a total of 101,000 vehicles. This corresponds to 15% of the brand’s total sales.

Considerable light commercial vehicle growth: Sales up by 26%

In total, Opel and Vauxhall were able to sell 125,000 light commercial vehicles worldwide, which corresponds to an increase of 26% compared to 2022. Brands secured a leading position among electric vans with around 17,000 units of Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric sold on the European market (EU 29).

Strong growth in C-segment: Opel Astra and Grandland sales up by 57%

Opel also continued to grow in the highly competitive C-segment. Astra was able to double its European sales (EU 29) in 2023 with all drive versions. Overall, Opel recorded significant growth worldwide in the C‑segment. Compared to the previous year, the brand sold around 57% more units of Astra and Grandland.

Opel Corsa and Mokka continue to be successful across Europe

Corsa once again proved to be a bestseller last year. In company's two largest markets, Germany and  United Kingdom, it was most popular choice in B-segment. In Greece, Opel Corsa was even the best-selling car overall in country. In addition to leading way in Germany and United Kingdom, the Corsa Electric took second place in registration statistics in its segment in Italy, Netherlands, Portugal and Austria. Mokka Electric was most popular B-SUV in United Kingdom and finished second in Germany, Spain, Poland and Belgium.

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.

Adam Opel Founded His Company 160 Years Ago

• September 1862: Everything began with the first sewing machines
• 1868: Adam Opel married his wife Sophie and built the first new factory
• 1886: The first bicycle made in Rüsselsheim was produced
• 1899: Opel started making cars
• 2022: Opel is becoming an electric mobility brand

Opel is currently celebrating a very special anniversary. 160 years ago, Adam Opel founded his company in Rüsselsheim. In doing so, he laid the foundations for an internationally active, successful company in a wide variety of sectors. Starting with the production of sewing machines in 1862, Opel became the world's largest bicycle manufacturer and finally an internationally renowned automobile brand. Guideline from the beginning that has always distinguished all products “made by Opel” – make innovations affordable for everyone – remains true today. Opel is fully committed to electrification and offers customers a wide range of models with different variants of electrified drive.

Foundation in 1862: No easy start

As the eldest son of the master locksmith Philipp Wilhelm Opel, Adam's path was actually preordained – he was to take over and continue his father's business one day. But Adam had other plans, his big dream was the city of Paris. After stays in Liège, Brussels and London, he finally made it to his longed-for destination, where he made the momentous decision to enter the sewing machine business. At the end of August 1862, the now 25-year-old returned to his home town of Rüsselsheim and set up his own modest workshop in his parents' house; at that time against the wishes of his father, who had no real interest in sewing machines. After spending time in cosmopolitan cities, the return to his birthplace meant a big change for the young journeyman. But it was here, in the then village of Rüsselsheim with its 2,000 inhabitants, that Adam laid the foundations for the global Opel company.

Assembly of the first sewing machine took months. After completion, the master tailor Hummel from Rüsselsheim bought it and kept it in operation for 40 years. Even then the motto was “Opel, the reliable”. In 1863 Adam Opel set up his first own production facility in an uncle's disused cowshed. From Paris, brother Georg supplied Adam with steel, shuttles, needles and complete sewing machines for resale. A first advertisement appeared and Adam hired his first employee. Opel not only built sewing machines, but also traded in them with great success.

In the following years the sewing machine business flourished and Opel expanded. In 1868 he built a new factory building with a two-storey production hall, steam engine and adjoining residential and office building. After moving in, 40 people were working for the young company. In the same year, he married his wife Sophie, who not only took care of the household, but also the company's bookkeeping, thus bringing a breath of fresh air into the company. Production figures increased rapidly, not least because Opel accommodated individual customer wishes and designed special sewing machines for specific requirements. In 1886, 18,000 machines left the factory. The company became one of the largest sewing machine manufacturers in Germany and exported throughout Europe.

1887: From sewing machines to bicycles

Industrialisation offered the Opel family further business opportunities in the 1880s. On a trip to Paris in 1884, Adam Opel became acquainted with the penny-farthing (in France's capital, bicycles were already a common means of transport).Entrepreneur decided to purchase such a device, but it was several months before the first of his own models left the factory in Rüsselsheim in 1886. In the autumn of 1887, an illustrated price list marked the official beginning of a significant period in the company's history.

As with the sewing machines that went before, Opel was quick to adopt modern technology for its bicycles. In 1888, the penny-farthing, which marked the beginning of bicycle manufacturing in Rüsselsheim, was replaced by the modern low-wheel bicycle. By 1890, 2,200 two-wheelers had been sold. Five sons of Adam and Sophie were the best ambassadors for their own cause with over 550 victories in bicycle races. In the 1920s Opel became the world's largest bicycle manufacturer; 15,000 dealers sold bikes from Rüsselsheim. After the introduction of the assembly line in 1923, a bicycle left the production line every seven seconds.

1899: Opel starts building automobiles

Decisive step in the history of the company – driven forward by the five sons after Adam Opel's death in 1895 – was the start of automobile production in 1899. Opel is thus one of the pioneers in this industry and one of the most tradition-rich automobile manufacturers in the world. On January 21, 1899, Opel acquired the “Anhaltische Motorwagenfabrik” from Friedrich Lutzmann of Dessau. In the same year, automobile production in Rüsselsheim began with the Opel “Patent-Motorwagen System Lutzmann”. In 1906 the 1,000th vehicle was built; the final breakthrough came the following year when the Rüsselsheim carmaker was appointed supplier to the imperial court. However, Opel was also committed to the democratisation of the automobile, for example with the small 4/8 hp “Doktorwagen” in 1909.

In the following decades Opel became a regular trendsetter. Comfort, safety and newest technologies always played a major role. In the process, brand continuously developed without losing touch with its core philosophy – to make mobility accessible for all. 160 years ago, Adam Opel delighted customers with his first sewing machines. Similarly, Opel today brings a modern, future-oriented mobility to the market. Brand already offers numerous electrified vehicles, in three locally emissions-free variants. Bestsellers like the Opel Corsa and Mokka and the LCV-trio Combo, Vivaro and Movano are battery electric while the Opel Grandland and the Opel Astra are plug-in hybrids. The portfolio of electric propulsion systems is currently completed by the Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN. Young drivers aged 15 and over can already begin their journey into electric mobility thanks to the Opel Rocks-e two-seat quadricycle.

Opel now 14 months in a row with market share gains in Germany

• Market share in November continues to grow to 6.6 percent
• Opel Corsa is the best-selling small car in Germany
• Every third Opel Mokka and every fourth newly registered Opel Corsa is electric

Opel Corsa-e 

Opel continues to grow in its important German home market and has increased its market share for the 14th month in a row. According to preliminary figures, Opel achieved a market share of 6.6 percent in November with around 13,000 newly registered cars. November data underlines the clear upward trend since the beginning of the year: between January and the end of November 2021, over 147,000 new vehicles were registered with the Blitz. In the same period last year there were around 130,000 units. Market share for the first eleven months of this year is now over 6.1 percent and thus around 1.1 percentage points above the market share of 2020.

Opel Mokka-e

 “Opel is one of the winners in the German market. Despite the restrictions caused by the pandemic and the semiconductor crisis, we are continuously increasing our market share. With the Opel Corsa and Mokka, we have excellent models for which the electric versions are in high demand. Order books for the new Opel Grandland are also well filled, and in the coming year we will also bring the next generation of Opel Astra to dealers, ”explains Opel Germany boss Andreas Marx.

New Opel Grandland Hybrid4

All-New Opel Astra

Opel Corsa continues to make a significant contribution to the successful performance. Sixth generation of the bestseller small car has found almost 44,000 buyers in Germany alone since the beginning of the year. This makes Opel Corsa the most popular small car on the German market. Opel Mokka is also a bestseller - in November Opel Mokka took second place in the SUV B segment.

Significant growth in the battery-electric models Opel Corsa-e (winner of the Golden Steering Wheel 2020) and Opel Mokka-e is also particularly gratifying. Of the total of 4,800 newly registered Corsas, more than a quarter were electric. Proportion was even higher for Opel Mokka. Almost a third of customers ordered the Opel Mokka-e, the winner of the Golden Steering Wheel 2021.

CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz with Opel Mokka-e, winner of the Golden Steering Wheel 2021

Real Highlight: New Opel Mokka with IntelliLux LED Matrix Light

• Typically Opel: Class leading, glare-free IntelliLux LED Matrix light
• Great looks: Ultra-slim headlamps integrated in new Opel Vizor brand face
• Top technology: Adaptive LED systems for many Opel models
• Energy saving: Durable, ultra-efficient lighting with optimum output

All-New Opel Mokka with IntelliLux LED Matrix Light

All- new Opel Mokka is an innovation and image platform for the brand with the Blitz – pure, bold and anything but ordinary. The newcomer was the first model presented with the new Opel Vizor brand face and also introduces pioneering new developments, such as the Opel Pure Panel cockpit. The all-new design continues the Opel tradition of bringing innovative technologies from higher vehicle classes to a wider audience. This especially applies to the adaptive Intellilux LED Matrix headlamps that were developed in Rüsselsheim.

“Developing pioneering lighting technology and making it available for our customers is typical of Opel”, says Ingolf Schneider, the head of lighting technologies at Opel. “IntelliLux LED Matrix light turns night into day without glare for other road users. In line with our tradition, we bring this technology to a variety of Opel models, regardless of the class of vehicle. All-new Mokka is therefore an innovation accelerator.”

Bright, precise and glare-free: higher safety thanks to IntelliLux LED Matrix light

Opel has always played a pioneering role when it comes to innovative light technology that is affordable for customers. Every new Mokka, beginning with the entry-level version, is equipped with the newest generation of LED lighting – from the daylight running lamps in typical Opel design, to the headlamps, indicators and taillights.

Adaptive IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamps with their 14 LEDs are a true highlight in this vehicle class. The technology is far superior to Xenon or conventional lighting because it is more precise, more powerful and more durable. Above all, IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamps in the new Opel Mokka are moderately priced, costing only €600 in Germany (RRP including VAT).

As in the Opel Insignia, Opel Astra and Opel Corsa, matrix light enables the new Mokka to be driven with main beam permanently switched on. Approaching or preceding vehicles are “cut” out of the light cone in fractions of a second by the individual LEDs. Nobody is dazzled and night is turned into day for the occupants of the Mokka. Framed by the new Opel Vizor brand fascia, the intelligent headlamps make driving at night safer and more comfortable. As soon as the car has left the city limits, the matrix headlamps switch on at speeds above 50 km/h. The light cone is continuously adjusted to the prevailing traffic situation – on the autobahn, on country roads and in curves.

“Thanks to the compact LEDs, customers benefit from much slimmer headlamps than in the past. The new Mokka not only offers top lighting, it also looks great”, says Schneider in praise of the styling potential enabled by the IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamps. The same applies to the rear of the car, where LEDs are also employed. Therefore, the designers could give the new Mokka a wider and especially slim appearance at the rear, enhancing the impression of precision and quality.

Efficient as well as good looking: Full LED systems in the Opel portfolio

Opel offers full LED headlamps with many automatic functions for the majority of its passenger car models. The drivers and passengers of the Opel Grandland X and the Opel Crossland, for example, therefore enjoy optimum vision at night. In addition to the brighter light, LEDs are also more efficient than conventional headlamps, which makes a significant contribution to a further reduction in CO2 emissions.

New Corporate Identity: Opel with New Image

• “New Opel“: Modern elements underline brand’s strength for innovation
• New Logo: Legendary Opel Blitz in fresh design
• New font: “Opel Next” is modern, expressive and consistent
• New colour: Neon Opel-yellow stands out and electrifies

Opel has a new look. Brand logo, which is now more finely drawn, the new "Opel Next" font and the bright Opel yellow signal the brand's innovative strength. The goal: to be even more modern and courageous in appearance. Opel has always stood for the democratization of innovation and mobility. "New Opel" now expresses this spirit with its fresh corporate identity.

Opel GT X Experimental

Journey into the future began with the Opel GT X Experimental. Study already showed the new Opel Blitz as the emblem on the vehicle. Distinctive signature line was in bright neon yellow – this has now become the Opel yellow of the renewed corporate identity. With the Opel Mokka, the Rüsselsheim-based manufacturer then presented the first production car with the new Opel face – the Vizor – and the upcoming cockpit design – Pure Panel.

Opel is now presenting further elements of its new appearance in detail: new logo, new font, new colour – "New Opel". In the first half of 2021, everyone will be able to experience the new look around the new Opel Crossland and the all-new Opel Mokka. They will be the first production cars in the new design. With their modernity, they fit perfectly into the world of today and tomorrow.

“We are confident, young-minded and inclusive. In this new era Opel is taking inspiration from progressive, ‘cold to cool’ Modern German culture and re-emerges bold, pure and contemporary. This is the expression of our new brand identity and absolutely represents our exciting new product line-up,” says Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director Marketing, Sales & Aftersales at Opel.

New Opel design focuses on the essentials, dispensing with frills and distracting elements. It thus reflects the precise German design philosophy of the brand – bold and pure. With the focus on the Blitz, the ring in the new brand logo is slim. A word mark serves as a strong basis for the logo. The new font with the name “Opel Next” is also light, powerful, modern and clear. It contains three different versions: light, regular and bold. These fonts harmonize perfectly and ensure a consistent message. The new Opel yellow symbolizes electricity, the new fuel in the electric age. Colour electrifies, imprints itself and thus creates an unmistakable identity.

“A new era needs modern brands and modern brands need a clear design. With the new brand elements, we are expressing our claim to be distinctive, progressive, open to the new and open to the future,” explains the global Head of Marketing at Opel/Vauxhall, Patrick Fourniol.

New appearance will be reflected in all areas – from products to marketing and sales. It will be rolled out across all communication channels and areas.

New image was developed in collaboration with the VELOCITY McCANN agency, and the new “Opel Next” font together with Monotype.

Made in Germany: Opel Celebrates 120 Years of Automobiles

• When the horses moved under the bonnet: Opel starts with Patentmotorwagen in 1899
• Mobility for the masses: Doktorwagen, Laubfrosch and Kadett pave the way
• From Lutzmann to Insignia; 120 years of car manufacturing in Rüsselsheim
• Company goal until this very day: Opel democratises technologies

The first Opel: Patent Motor Car, System Lutzmann, 1899

Opel is one of the carmakers with the richest tradition in the world. Next year, the brand will celebrate 120 years of automobiles. After listening to the advice of her sons Karl, Wilhelm and Friedrich, Sophie Opel decided to start producing cars in 1899 – four years after the death of company founder Adam Opel. What started in a garage in Rüsselsheim am Main with 65 hand-made Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann”, has long become a mass phenomenon will more than 70 million vehicles built to date. From the very beginning, Opel championed the cause of producing cars as efficiently as possible and thus making them affordable for a broad audience. For example, Opel was the first German manufacturer to introduce the especially economic assembly line production as early as 1924. This helped the Opel 4/12 PS “Laubfrosch” and all later Opel 4 PS variants become bestsellers. The Rüsselsheim-based company already produced technologically-advanced vehicles for the masses with the Opel P4 and the Kadett (already with a self-supporting body) in the 1930s. Made in Germany and German engineering became affordable and accessible. Opel even stayed true to this democratising of mobility when developing a sports car: An affordable dream car hit the roads in 1968 in the Opel GT.

The brand has played a leading role in all segments – models such as the Opel Kadett, Rekord and Kapitän characterised the period of reconstruction and the period of the economic miracle. Stylish icons such as the Opel GT, Manta and Monza then followed. In the 1980s and 1990s models such as Corsa, Astra and Zafira then became bestsellers and symbols of reunification. After the fall of the Berlin Wall and the opening of the plant in Eisenach, Opel became more popular than ever before. The first generation Astra was produced 4.2 million times between 1991 and 1998 making it the most built Opel model ever. Until this very day, the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker is firmly anchored in the centre of society and offers technologies that are normally reserved for expensive premium cars. Innovative solutions such as the IntelliLux LED Matrix light in the compact Astra (Car of the Year 2016) as well as in the Insignia flagship, the AGR-certified active ergonomic seats (available in many carlines) or the extensive array of assistance systems for more safety and comfort (all carlines) are typical for Opel.

From Lutzmann to Opel Doktorwagen: The pioneering years

Opel joins the ranks of the automotive pioneers of the late 19^th century that include Daimler, Benz and Peugeot by buying Friedrich Lutzmann’s motor car factory. In the spring of 1899, the first Opel patent motor car “System Lutzmann” is built in Rüsselsheim. Two years later, a converted Lutzmann wins the Heidelberg-Königstuhl “Mountain Race” by beating “16 other vehicles made by well-known German carmakers”. Overall, the development in the automotive industry is fast and furious. While the first models are direct descendants of horse-drawn carriages, Opel launches an ultra-modern small car for an extremely competitive price in 1909. The 4/8 hp Opel Doktorwagen already has an Opel engineered and Opel built 4-cylinder in-line engine. In the adverts, Opel promises that it is ideal for “Doctors, veterinarians and lawyers”. The Doktorwagen is available for prices between 4,000 and 5,000 Mark while many other cars made during this period cost 20,000 Mark. It transforms the motor car from a prestigious toy for the rich and the famous into an affordable mobility solution for a broad audience.

4/8 hp Opel Doktorwagen from 1909.

From Opel Laubfrosch to Kadett: Mass mobility

Friedrich – who had since been promoted to chief engineer – and his brother Wilhelm introduce the assembly line production at Opel in 1924. Ford were the first company to introduce this cost-cutting method in America in 1913. Opel always had a keen eye for developments in other countries. Adam Opel became fascinated by the sewing machine during his years of travel in France and later the System Darracq provided a major boost for car manufacturing in Rüsselsheim. The Opel brothers then launch the innovative 4/12 PS “Laubfrosch”. The two-seater with a top speed of 60 km/h is available for 3,900 Goldmark thanks to assembly line production. Later, the “car for everyone” is available for 1,930 Reichsmark. In the following years, an entire vehicle family is created based on the Laubfrosch technology. In total, 119,484 Opel 4 PS models are made until 1931.

4/12 hp Opel “Laubfrosch” (Tree Frog), 1924

What these revolutionary cars are for the 1920s, the Kadett is for the 1930s. Automotive progress is taking huge steps. The Kadett replaces the successful Opel P4 and celebrates its debut with a self-supporting steel body, single-wheel front suspension, 4-cylinder four-stroke engine and hydraulic drum brakes. The prices are well below those of the direct competitors. In 1938, the “normal” Opel Kadett limousine is available for an affordable 1,795 Mark.

The Kadett nameplate is revived in 1962 and Opel ups the ante even further with the Kadett A. While many competitors still rely on two-stroke or air-cooled rear-mounted engine, the newcomers shines with the comfort of a water-cooled 4-cylinder unit, a quiet 4-speed transmissions and body styles ranging from coupé to Caravan.

From Olympia Rekord to the “KAD” models: Prosperity increases

The first all-new Opel after the war is the Olympia Rekord and it sounds in a new era with its ponton-style body and chrome plated shark mouth. The design takes cues from that of large American limousines – and is perfect for the economic miracle that is just beginning. Those who are successful want to show it again. And a new type of vehicle also makes its debut with the Olympia Rekord Caravan – a lifestyle estate for the whole family. An all-new Opel Kapitän arrives in 1954, the Opel Rekord P2 is introduced in 1960 and the Rekord A follows in 1963 with disc brakes and soon afterwards with 6-cylinders. No matter whether as a coupé, estate or limousine – the mid-size Rekord becomes synonymous with the new middle class in the young Federal Republic of Germany. Opel produces 882,433 Rekord A by 1965. This success opens the door for the “big three” and in 1964 the “KAD” – for Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat – arrive in the luxury class. The second generation of these KAD models can even boast a unique level of driving comfort thanks to the legendary de Dion rear axle. Opel introduces the safety steering column in all passenger car models in 1968. Innovations to help cope with the growing amount of traffic.

From the Opel GT to the Calibra: New sportiness

Opel Experimental GT was shown on a slightly slanted platform at the IAA in 1965 to emphasize the two-seater’s dynamic shape.

Opel becomes the first European manufacturer to open a true, modern design studio in June 1964. And only one year later, the first concept car from a European manufacturer, the Experimental GT, celebrates its debut at the 1965 Frankfurt Motor Show. A further 36 months later, the serial production Opel GT is available from Opel dealers and marks the birth of a sports car legend. The icon is affordable for a broad audience thanks to mass production technology and the GT is the next hit from Rüsselsheim. The company sticks to this approach in the coming years. Opel Manta shares its technology with the Ascona when it is launched in 1970 and the Calibra “borrows” the Vectra’s technology from 1989.

The top-of-the-range variant of the aerodynamics world champion (Cd of 0.26), the Calibra Turbo 4x4 delivers 204 hp and offers the driving performance of sports cars twice its price.

From Opel Corsa to Ampera: Bestsellers and trendsetters

In 1982, Opel made a huge splash with a small car. Corsa A rounded off the company’s offering by sitting neatly under the Kadett. Opel Corsa was an impressive display of getting the most out of a small space without compromising on driving pleasure or cost effectiveness. Every single generation of the Corsa (A to E) has driven and continued the democratisation of individual mobility. To date, almost 14 million Corsa have been registered.

And next year the next generation will follow adding a new chapter to the story – with a fully electric version of the Corsa.

Just as the Corsa has shaped the small car segment, the Zafira has defined the compact van segment with room for seven since 1999. The third row of seats that disappears entirely under the boot floor is simply a stroke of genius. Owners of models made by competitors have to painstakingly remove the additional heavy seats when the boot space is required. Seven people can easily fit into the 4.32 metre long Zafira. Alternatively, the compact van can double as a transporter in a matter of seconds by folding award the seats and created a 1.56 by 1.15 metre loading area with a total capacity of up to 1,700 litres.

The current Opel Zafira is also a master of metamorphosis doubling as a transporter and a lounge on wheels thanks to the Flex7 ^Plus seating system.

A further trendsetter follows in the footsteps of the Corsa and Zafira after celebrating its world premiere at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show: The Opel Ampera, a car that redefines electro-mobility. The 2012 Car of the Year drives electric and also has its own source of power on board with the range extender. This makes the Ampera just as independent from loading stations as a conventional passenger car. 

Opel presents the next generation of the electric car at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The Ampera-e has an all-electric NEDC range of 520 kilometres thanks to its 60 kWh state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery. And the 150 kW/204 hp electric motor gives it sports car-like acceleration. The next electric car from Rüsselsheim will follow next year already and electro-mobility will get another boost with the Corsa-e – out of the niche and on to the road.

From Opel Astra to Insignia: New efficiency

Opel discovers the new lightness of being with the launch of the current generation Astra in 2015. The compact car weighs up to 200 kilogrammes less than its predecessor did. The engine offering follows the downsizing strategy: with smaller displacement and turbocharging, lower fuel consumption and higher efficiency. For the first time, the Astra is available with a highly efficient 3-cylinder direct injection petrol unit and the revolutionary IntelliLux LED Matrix light. The innovative system turns night into day without glaring other road users – a unique feature in the compact class.

Opel Astra convinces customers and experts alike and is voted “Car of the Year 2016”.

The Insignia A is the first Opel that can recognise traffic signs from 2008 and offers the intelligent AFL+ lighting system. Just like the Astra, the second generation of the Opel flagship has been trimmed for efficiency. The new generation Insignia is lighter, more economic and simultaneously much more spacious. A highlight feature of the Insignia GSi, Country Tourer, Grand Sport and Sports Tourer is the adaptive all-wheel drive with torque vectoring that can accelerate the rear wheels individually in a split-second depending on the driving situation. The Opel Insignia is the first vehicle made by a volume manufacturer to offer this technology in the mid-size segment.

From Opel Mokka to Grandland X: SUV phenomenon

SUV is the buzzword of the hour in the automotive industry. Customers want to sit a little bit higher to have a better overview and to enjoy the flair of long-distance travel and adventure. Opel recognised this trend at a very early stage and proposed a unique offer in the B-segment. The cool sub-compact Opel Mokka is also available with all-wheel drive and proves to be extremely popular from the very start. It is joined in the compact class by the Opel Crossland X and the Opel Grandland X in 2017. All members of the X-Family are available with the AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) active seats. Ergonomic and comfortable seats have been a part of the Opel DNA for a long time – 120 years ago the Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” already proudly sported leather upholstery.