125 years of automobile manufacturing at Opel: Manufacturer in the anniversary year with Opel Admiral, Kadett GT/E, Monza and Calibra on a big Black Forest tour
“Forever forward since 1899”: Current Opel Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid leads the field
This year's Paul Pietsch Classic , which came to a close on Saturday afternoon on the market square in Offenburg, Baden, was varied in every respect. Beforehand, the participants had covered many kilometers in their shiny vintage cars in changeable weather through picturesque villages, along scenic valleys, and over the heights of the Black Forest. Always in the thick of it: Opel Classic with real icons of the past decades. To mark the anniversary of "125 years of automobile manufacturing at Opel," the brand drove up with classics from the 1960s to 1990s, including the Admiral V8, Kadett GT/E, Monza, and the "aerodynamics world champion" Calibra. True to the anniversary motto "Forever forward since 1899," a current model was also present - in a prominent position. The highly efficient, electrified Opel Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid was used as the lead vehicle on both days of the rally.
"Paul Pietsch Classic is an unforgettable experience every year. Even the odd rain shower cannot harm the beauty of this region and the classic cars that are on the road here," says Opel Classic manager Leif Rohwedder, who conquered the stages together with Motor Klassik editor Peter Michaely in a bright yellow Opel Calibra 4x4 2.0i 16V, built in 1990, looking back on the past two days.
From Offenburg through Black Forest: Sporty Opel classics inspire
111 teams started on Friday to complete the scenic circuit through the Black Forest. From Offenburg, the route first led towards Kaiserstuhl, then turned through the Elztal and went via Schramberg and Schiltach back to Offenburg. On day 2, the regularity rally also lived up to the motto of its namesake Paul Pietsch - "For the love of motorsport" - and his connection to his homeland. Here, the participants passed landmarks such as Appenweiher, Sasbach, Gaggenau and the Bühler Höhe - exactly the right terrain for the streamlined, 110 kW (150 hp) Calibra sports coupe.
But the crews of the other Opel Classic vehicles also showed what their style icons can do. For example, auto motor und sport editor-in-chief Birgit Priemer and former editor-in-chief Bernd Ostmann mixed up the field in a 1977 Opel Kadett GT/E specially designed for sporting use. In addition to the sporting ambitions, the enjoyment factor was not neglected. "It is always impressive how much positive attention the Opel brand attracts from visitors to the Paul Pietsch Classic. Many people still have fond memories of Opel Kadett GT/E. It sparks a lot of passion, even at the side of the track," says Birgit Priemer, looking back on the experience.
Current compact class bestseller from Rüsselsheim also impressed with its dynamism and efficiency: the organizers of Paul Pietsch Classic were able to make themselves comfortable in an Opel Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid with 133 kW (180 hp) system output and a powerful 250 Newton meters of torque. Electrified station wagon led the field - responsibly and resource-efficiently with a purely electric and thus locally emission-free range of up to 65 kilometers according to WLTP 2 (EAER City according to WLTP 2 : 65-66 km).
[1] Values of a vehicle depend not only on efficient use of fuel by vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.
[2] Stated range was determined using the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning, and thermal preconditioning.
Modern twist: GSe to return as a dynamic, electrified Opel sub-brand
Opel CEO Florian Huettl: GSe now also stands for Grand Sport electric
Comprehensive electrified offer: From Opel Corsa-e to Astra plug-in hybrid and Movano-e
GSe – three letters with a very clear connotation for Opel customers: highly-equipped, sporty models. Today, with the German carmaker’s clear plan to offer an electrified version of each model in its portfolio by 2024 and to be a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028, Opel is reviving and redefining GSe as a new range-topping sub-brand. Unlike in the past when the label was the abbreviation of “Grand Sport Einspritzung” (Grand Sport Injection) as on the Commodore GS/E and the Monza GSE, it will have a new meaning going forward.
“I am very happy to announce the return of GSe as our top of the range, sporty sub-brand in the immediate future. We have once again taken inspiration from our rich heritage – as we did for our new critically acclaimed bold and pure design – and given it a modern twist. In future, the label GSe will not only signify dynamic, fun to drive cars but also stand for ‘Grand Sport electric’, in full alignment with our ambitious plans to become a fully electric brand,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.
In addition to athletic looks based on Opel’s award-winning design, future GSe customers can look forward to a chassis set-up to deliver a high level of driving fun and engagement. And like all Opel models, GSe line-up will be “Autobahn proof” thanks to extensive testing on German motorways. Simultaneously, GSe models will combine these values with the option of locally emissions-free mobility, thus redefining the performance Zeitgeist.
Opel most recently presented Manta GSe, a modern take on the legendary Manta from 1970. It shows how timeless the lines from 1970 still are today. What was sculptural and straightforward half a century ago still fits perfectly with the Opel design philosophy today. It takes a strong, clear stance and confidently starts a new future: electric, locally emission-free – full of emotions. Opel Manta GSe is also a tribute to the beautiful Manta A that most recently provided the inspiration for the design of the new brand face – the Opel Vizor, which organically integrates into one single module the grille, the lighting system and the Blitz brand emblem. All new Opel models feature the Vizor – including the new Opel Astra and Opel Astra Sports Tourer.
Multi-award-winning Manta GSe also follows Opel’s “simply electric” route to the electrification of the brand, whether as passenger car or light commercial vehicle. Every Opel model will be electrified by 2024, and the customer already has the choice between 12 electrified models today, from plug-in hybrids such as the Grandland and the Astra to all-electric battery-electric vehicles from the Corsa-e small car to the Zafira-e Life “lounge on wheels”, and from the Combo-e Cargo to the Movano-e van.
Forerunner: after the Ascona the whole Opel model range got catalytic converters
Complicated operation: Opel Ascona significantly modified for three-way catalytic converter
Eye for detail: even fuel tank filler neck redesigned for unleaded petrol
Major commitment: Opel invested DM 1.0 billion in catalytic converter development
Opel Ascona 1.8i GT
Thirty-five years ago, the era of the catalytic converter began at Opel. In 1985, the Opel Ascona 1.8i was the first German car with a catalytic converter developed especially for the European market, instead of merely modified for export from the USA.
Opel Ascona 1.8i for Rhineland-Palatinate Police
Rhineland-Palatinate Police force took delivery of the first Opel Ascona 1.8i with three-way catalytic converter actually produced, on December 7, 1984. During the course of the following year, Opel introduced catalytic converters across the model range – from Corsa, Kadett and Ascona, to Rekord, Monza and Senator. German manufacturer was the first European brand to offer three-way catalytic converters standard.
Catalytic converters are not all the same
Opel’s engineers were well aware that European traffic conditions necessitated the appropriate technology and quality. They therefore developed a catalytic converter especially for European driving conditions – just as they would when it came to bodywork, suspension, engines and brakes. For Opel, it was about more than just installing a catalytic converter in the exhaust system; reducing emissions via catalytic converter represented a complicated operation on the “internal organs” of the automobile.
Compared with a conventional car, the design of a vehicle with catalytic converter required numerous alterations. For example, the converter radiates a lot of heat when it has reached its operating temperature (600 degrees Celsius). Heat-sensitive components and the passenger compartment therefore needed protection from reflective shields.
In order for the catalytic converter to operate at optimum efficiency, it required an electronic mixture preparation system and a multitude of controls, which in turn made further modifications necessary. Even the filler neck of the fuel tank needed a redesign to prevent drivers from mistakenly filling the tank with leaded instead of unleaded petrol.
One billion Deutsche Mark for the environmentally friendly automobile
Opel committed more than one billion Deutsche Mark (DM) as well as hundreds of engineers to the development of catalytic converters and the environmentally friendly automobile. Company invested DM 100 million alone in new test rigs and test equipment for durability and high-speed testing.
New facilities also included a 13-storey-high “soak tower”. In this insulated building, more than 130 cars could be prepared simultaneously for emissions testing. The standards required that, before the emissions test, each car had to be stored for at least 12 hours at a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.
As well as offering cars with a three-way catalytic converter installed at the factory, Opel offered customers a kit for retrofit. However, the carmaker was not content to innovate only in technology. Opel also took new paths in Public Relations. Company offered people the opportunity to inform themselves actively about catalytic converters and retrofitting. For a few hours every day, motorists and interested parties could call a telephone “hotline” and get answers to their questions first-hand from the company’s experts.
Opel Ascona 1.8i GT
Today, 35 years after introducing the three-way catalytic converter on the Ascona 1.8i, Opel continues to take its responsibility for the environment seriously. Following the Opel Grandland X as plug-in hybrid and the battery powered Opel Corsa-e, the brand recently unveiled all-new Mokka-e, the Vivaro-e and the Zafira-e Life, all with pure electric drive and therefore locally emission-free.
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 19th
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.
32 LED segments turn night into day without dazzling other road users
New spotlight and curve illumination functions
New Opel Insignia realizes headlights of visionary Opel Monza Concept
In the new Opel Insignia: The next generation IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamp turns night into day making visibility clearer, further and better than ever before.
Opel will launch the next-generation of IntelliLux LED lighting with the all-new Opel Insignia in 2017. In addition to the numerous benefits of the award-winning Matrix technology introduced for the first time last year on the Astra, the even more refined and sophisticated IntelliLux LED headlights of the new Insignia feature additional functions that further improve nighttime visibility.
When Opel revealed the visionary Monza Concept at the 2013 IAA and CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann announced it showed what could be expected of Opel cars in the future, the company’s exterior lighting experts were not only enthusiastic.
They were just putting the finishes touches to the (in the meantime award-winning) adaptive IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights of the new Opel Astra, which consist of 16 LED segments – eight on each side of the vehicle – that automatically and constantly adapt the range and distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation.
As they admired the show-stopping Monza Concept, Opel’s lighting experts also wondered just how they were going to fit their innovative Matrix lighting technology for the next generation Insignia into such ultra-slim headlamps.
Tailwind for Opel’s lighting experts and to the advantage of future customers of the new Insignia: LED development proceeds as fast-as-light. During the Astra’s development, LEDs had become even more compact and powerful, and Opel’s engineers used the significantly higher performance to accommodate twice as many LED segments (32) in the new Insignia’s Monza Concept-inspired headlights as in the Astra.
As a result of the smoother transitions between the higher number of LED segments, the light patterns can be more precisely adapted. The adaptive IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights of the new Insignia therefore produce a larger amount of even brighter light.
“From the Astra we know how much customers appreciate the benefits of IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights” says Ingolf Schneider, Engineering Group Manager Exterior Lighting. “Now we are bringing the even more advanced second generation of this innovative technology onto the market in the all-new Insignia, with additional new functions that further improve visibility at night.”
To improve visibility still further while driving through curves on full high beam, the engineers added a new function to the new Insignia’s IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights. The light intensity at the inner matrix segments rises according to steering angle in order to increase the illumination of the curve.
Each IntelliLux LED headlight also features a high-beam spotlight that provides additional illumination at full high-beam for up to 400 meters, further improving the new Insignia’s long-range visibility.
Despite the futuristic DNA from the visionary Opel Monza Concept, the adaptive IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights of the new Opel Insignia could not be simpler to operate: As soon as the car exits urban areas, the IntelliLux LED headlights switch themselves on automatically and then constantly adapt the range and distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation, whether driving in town, on country roads, on the motorway, making a turn or taking a curve. Literally turning night into day for the new Opel Insignia – but without dazzling other road users.
Future: Opel flagship with all-new architecture and top technologies
In March: World premiere at Geneva Motor Show 2017
Final development phase: Opel Insignia Grand Sport is still heavily camouflaged. Opel’s new flagship will celebrate its world premiere at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.
All-new Opel Insignia Grand Sport is currently completing its final development phase. Even though the next generation of Opel’s flagship still hides its elegance from inquisitive eyes with extensive camouflage, the five-door sedan’s new grandeur is clearly distinguishable. The Opel Insignia Grand Sport is based on a completely new architecture and has a considerably longer wheelbase (over nine centimeters longer). But thanks to markedly shorter front and rear overhangs, it is only 5.5 centimeters longer than its predecessor. The one-centimeter wider track and three-centimeter lower roofline emphasize the Insignia Grand Sport’s dashing presence.
Longer wheelbase, shorter overhangs: Reworked proportions give new Opel flagship, Insignia Grand Sport, a more athletic presence than ever before.
These altered proportions give the next generation of Opel’s flagship a look that is more athletic and striking than ever before. But the Insignia Grand Sport doesn’t simply look more athletic – it delivers on this sportiness too. Space efficiency and weight-savings were at the top of engineers’ specifications: by using lightweight materials, they were able to shave up to 175 kilograms off of the new model generation. Optimized packaging allows for a roomier interior and of course a great range of top technologies is on board.
New presence: Elegant and athletic silhouette of Opel’s future flagship, the Insignia Grand Sport, is clearly visible despite the camouflage.
“The name Opel Insignia Grand Sport says it all. It reflects the efficient dynamics of a Monza Concept as much as it does our pride in the magnificent Opel classics Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat,” says Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.
“Our future flagship represents a new dimension – elegance, lightness and sportiness blend to create an extremely attractive combination.”
Lightweight athleticism: New Insignia Grand Sport shows true grandeur – despite being up to 175 kilograms lighter that the outgoing model.
With the new Opel Insignia Grand Sport, the company is starting the next chapter in the history of its top-of-the-line models. In 2008, the predecessor founded a new Opel era in terms of development and design – and was a huge hit with the public: to date, over 900,000 Insignia cars have been sold and it was named “Car of the Year” in 2009.
At the 2013 IAA, Opel gave a glimpse into the future of the automobile with the visionary Monza Concept Study: light, athletic, efficient and with top connectivity – this is what defines future Opel cars.
The new Astra, which was promptly named “Car of the Year 2016”, follows this philosophy. With the Insignia Grand Sport, Opel now launches another potential successful model that consistently realizes these standards.
The Insignia Grand Sport consistently continues the approach, which Opel began in the compact class with the youngest Astra generation and now takes to the next level. The newcomer is slightly larger than the current Insignia on the outside but this leads to a noticeable increase in spaciousness on the inside, putting it in a higher league in terms of size, roominess and comfort. Even as innovative technologies underline the future top-of-the-line Opel model’s ambitious standards, the company remains true to its philosophy: mobility and trend-setting developments must remain affordable and accessible for a broad audience. The Insignia Grand Sport thus represents the chic alternative to considerably more expensive cars.
The official world premiere of the Opel Insignia Grand Sport takes place in March 2017 at the Geneva Motor Show.
Opel CEO Dr. Neumann: “Astra is the best Opel we have ever built”
Product offensive steps up a gear: 29 new Opel/Vauxhall models until 2020
GM CEO Mary Barra: “We want to be number two in Europe.”
Connectivity pioneer with Opel OnStar
Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann: “The new Astra is the best Opel we have ever built.”
The 66th International Motor Show in Frankfurt stared for Opel with the world premiere of the new generation Astra earlier today. It also marks the start of a new era for the company. “Our new Astra is the best Opel we have ever built and it represents a real quantum leap for Opel in a number of ways,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann in his opening words to the visitors of the official press conference in the Astra Galaxy. “The entire team has done an outstanding job on the new Astra. It’s another chapter in our comeback story.” The eleventh generation Opel compact class car is not only lighter, more agile and more efficient than ever before – it also comes with features previous only known from higher segments. After unveiling the 5-door Astra, the Opel Group CEO was joined on the stage of the more than 3,300m2
World Premiere: GM CEO Mary Barra and Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann reveal the new Astra Sports Tourer at the Opel Press Conference at the 66th Frankfurt Motor Show.
Opel booth D09 in hall 8.0 by General Motors CEO Mary Barra for the reveal of the Astra Sports Tourer. With around 30,000 orders to date, the car is already a huge success even though it will only be officially launched on October 10.
GM CEO Mary Barra: Speed up the product offensive and new flagship
General Motors’ Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra went on to announce some important news on the European product and model offensive. “We will speed up the model offensive at Opel/Vauxhall: From 2016 to 2020, we will launch 29 new vehicles including an electric vehicle and a second flagship alongside the Insignia. This all-new SUV will be produced in Rüsselsheim by the end of decade and will give the brand a further technological boost.” The goal for the future is clearly defined: Opel/Vauxhall have their sets firmly set on becoming the second largest automaker on the European market by 2022 after securing third place on the European Union passenger car market last year.
Center stage: GM CEO Mary Barra announced a new Opel product offensive with 29 new models to be launched between 2016 and 2020, including an electric vehicle and a second flagship in addition to the Insignia.
One of the key technologies moving forward is autonomous driving – something GM and Opel are working on aggressively. “We’ll see more changes in the auto industry in the next five to ten years than we saw in the past 50 years,” said Barra who also outlined that a world with zero crashes was the vision. “The new Opel Astra with all its active safety systems is an important step into that direction,” she added.
Opel CEODr. Neumann: New Astra brings luxury class technologies into the compact segment
The latest Opel compact class generation shows exactly how quick a vision can become reality. “With the new Astra, we realize a new vehicle philosophy that we presented here at the IAA two years ago in the form of the Monza Concept. Compact exterior, spacious interior with a lean and athletic design and trendsetting digital connectivity,” said Dr. Neumann when explaining the key features of the potential compact class bestseller.
Keyword efficiency: The latest generation Astra is based on a new lightweight vehicle architecture. Each component was looked at with regard to mass optimization resulting in the new model being up to 200 kilograms lighter than the outgoing version. The powerful, fuel efficient and clean latest generation engines are the perfect match. “The new engines propel the Astra to the top of its segment,” added Dr. Neumann.
Keyword connectivity: The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker has introduced groundbreaking connectivity solutions with the new generation IntelliLink infotainment systems that are now compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Opel OnStar. The personal connectivity and service assistant is a guardian angel and service provider. Up to seven mobile devices can be connected to the Wi-Fi Hotspot that comes with a powerful onboard antenna. “OnStar is unique in Europe. Opel is a trendsetter in this area once again,” said Dr. Neumann.
However, that is not all, with the new Astra continuing to “upset the luxury class” as stated in the advertising campaign. The new Astra is the first ever vehicle in the compact class to offer the intelligent, glare-free IntelliLux LED® matrix light system. It addition, it comes with a host of innovative driver assistance systems and practical details. The tailgate on the Astra Sports Tourer, for example, can now be opened and closed with a kicking motion under the rear bumper.
“We are continuing to pursue our philosophy of offering technologies from the luxury class to all Opel customers at affordable prices,“ explained Neumann. “The new Astra is also first-in-class when it comes to total cost of ownership. You see: The new efficiency really pays off.”
Opel booth goes football: Jürgen Klopp and Bundesliga stars in the Astra Galaxy
The Astra Galaxy will also welcome some illustrious guests from the footballing world in the upcoming days. Brand ambassador Jürgen Klopp will kick things off on Saturday, September 19. He will hand over the proceeds from the sale of a BVB-ADAM to the charity “Ein Herz for Kinder” (A heart for children). In addition, he will join Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann for the presentation of the new Astra advertising campaign from 11.00 CET. The team and management of Mainz 05 will join Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group, from 11.00 CET the following day. Borussia Dortmund supremo Hans-Joachim Watzke, new Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel and three Borussia players will be interviewed at the booth from 14:00 CET on Thursday, September 24. And on Sunday, September 27 a Bayer 04 Leverkusen delegation led by coach Roger Schmidt and sporting director Rudi Völler will visit the Astra Galaxy from 11:00 CET.
Consistent lightweight design: Five-door model up to 200 kilograms lighter
Engineered from white sheet of paper: Every component trimmed to highest efficiency
Compact: All-aluminum engines and interior concept save more weight
Intelligent architecture: More space in slimmer shell
Consistent lightweight design: New Opel Astra is up to 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor
Lighter, more frugal and compact while offering more generous interior space – everything about the new Opel Astra follows the maxim of highest efficiency. All components and design features are aligned to this touchstone, resulting in intelligent packaging à la Astra. The next generation of the compact bestseller that makes its premiere at the IAA in Frankfurt (September 17 – 27) is based on an all-new lightweight architecture, its body is noticeably slimmer and it is driven by powerful, weight- and CO2-optimized all-aluminum engines. All told, the new Astra is up to 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor.
Consistent lightweight design: The new vehicle architecture
The visionary Monza Concept presented at the 2013 IAA was the role model for Opel’s eleventh compact class generation. Every component of the study reflects the efficiency maxim. The new Opel Astra already consistently realizes this vision: depending on the model and trim level, it is up to 200 – but in any case at least 120 – kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The new, thoroughly slimmed down vehicle architecture plays a decisive role in this weight loss: the bodyshell (body-in-white) and structure alone are over 20 percent lighter, down from 357 to 280 kilograms. Another 50 kilograms were saved in the design of chassis components: high-strength and ultra-high-strength lightweight steels, more compact subframes as well as modification to the front and rear suspensions all contributed to this end result. In addition, engineers decided against full underbody paneling to further optimize the aerodynamics of chassis and drivetrain elements, resulting in a double advantage: lower weight and reduced production costs that enable more attractive price structures for customers.
Bodyshell weight alone was reduced by 20% from 357 to 280 kilograms
Further size- and mass-optimization measures include shorter front and rear overhangs, as well as the up to 25 percent lighter exhaust system which saves around 4.5 kilograms on this part alone. The smaller wheels and tires weigh up to 11.5 kilograms less. The same is true for the brakes: as the system has less mass to decelerate, a more compact design weighing 10 kilograms less was possible – while delivering even better braking performance.
Lose the weight: Engines make their contribution
Another plus on the efficiency side is the new-generation engines. They distinguish themselves with their compact and ultra-efficient design: for instance the new 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine making its premiere in the Astra weighs much less than current comparable units. Its aluminum engine block alone is ten kilograms lighter than the cast-iron block of its predecessor. Thanks to their compact design, the newest-generation, ultra-modern transmissions save just as much weight.
All-aluminum: New 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with central direct fuel injection will be available in the new Opel Astra in two outputs, 92 kW/125 hp and 110 kW/150 hp.
Reduced weight also leads to noticeably higher agility. The new Astra is more fun to drive than ever before – while saving fuel and CO2 emissions. The newcomer with the 1.0 Turbo and Easytronic 3.0 combination is one of the most economical and cleanest gasoline models in its segment. The 77 kW/105 hp three-cylinder unit reduces consumption in the combined cycle to 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers and CO2 emissions to an exemplary 96 g/km.
Lose the weight: Light all-aluminum engines like the highly efficient 1.0 Turbo make their important contribution to it.
The interior was also put through a fitness program. Take, for instance, the seats: after five years of detailed work, the development team presented compact class seats that are more functional and comfortable, while featuring more of a space- and weight-saving design than ever before. State-of-the-art packaging calculation methods enable this, as do lighter polyurethane foams and ultra-high-strength steels that are built in under the robust seat upholstery. So the new Opel Astra seats in front and rear are a total of around ten kilograms lighter than in the previous model.
Intelligent packaging: Lighter, more compact yet more spacious
Intelligent packaging: New Opel Astra is lighter, more compact yet more spacious than its predecessor.
The new Astra generation not only looks more sophisticated and athletic, it is also more compact. With a total length of 4.37 meters, the five-door hatchback is almost five centimeters shorter than its predecessor, its height of 1.48 meters is 2.5 centimeters smaller and its width has been reduced by 0.5 centimeters to 1.81 meters. These dimensions also have a positive effect on the vehicle’s weight. At the same time, interior space is more generous. Together with the newly designed, lighter and more compact seats, rear-seat passengers now benefit from 35 millimeters more legroom than before. This puts the five-door model in first place ahead of all the competition. Distance between the first and second rows has been increased by 1.5 centimeters, greatly enhancing traveling comfort and sense of space. The same is true for upper-body freedom of movement for passengers in both front and rear seats. Especially in terms of headroom, the new Opel Astra sets standards in its class: the driver has 2.2 centimeters more headroom than in the predecessor. So the new Opel Astra successfully squares the circle: it is lighter and more compact while offering more space and comfort than before.
New center for high-speed milling opened in Rüsselsheim
Innovative vehicle concepts can be realized much quicker
Official opening: GM Director Global Design Operations Mark E Leavy, Vice President Design Mark Adams, Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Head of the Opel Works Council Dr. Wolfgang-Schäfer Klug and Design Operations Director Richard Bolz (from left to right) opened the new high-speed Milling Center in Rüsselsheim.
Opel is laying the foundations for the automotive design of the future with further investments in Rüsselsheim. On Thursday, Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Vice President Design Mark Adams, Design Operations Director Richard Bolz and Wolfgang Schäfer-Klug, Head of the Opel Works Council, opened a new high-speed milling center, where the design models and concept cars of the future will be produced. Opel has invested a total of euro five million in the ultra-modern milling machines and the modernization of the buildings.
Opening gift: Vice President Design Mark Adams presents Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann with a model of the Monza Concept made at the Milling Center.
“Outstanding design is part of Opel’s brand essence. We are investing in latest technologies to keep it that way. It will give us the opportunity to realize our creative ideas even quicker, more precise and more focused,” said Dr. Neumann. “I am delighted that the Milling Center is now open. The new machines will guarantee outstanding quality when milling our design model and secure employment at our Rüsselsheim site. The investment is further proof of Opel’s comeback to success,” added Wolfgang Schäfer-Klug, Head of the Opel Works Council.
Fast and precise: The computerized milling machines can create the most complex shapes in prime quality and of the highest precision.
High-speed milling is a technological innovation that reduces the development time of vehicles considerably. Design models can be produced in various scales in a relatively short space of time, allowing the proportions and design elements to have their full impact. The computerized, five-axis milling machine operate at up to 60 meters per minute and can create the most complex shapes in prime quality and of the highest precision. The machines can be operated with various materials such as aluminum, Plexiglas and plastics with different degrees of hardness.
The visitors of the opening ceremony received an insight into the numerous possibilities that the new high-tech centers opens: Opel Monza concept car, presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, was impressively set in scene in the middle of the new high-speed milling machine.
High-tech milling machine: The Opel Designers in Rüsselsheim can look to the latest technology – here with the Opel Monza Concept.
The Opel Design Center in Rüsselsheim can look back on a unique history spanning more than fifty years. As the first of its kind in the European automotive industry, it attracted car designers from all over the world.
The new Milling Center is a further step in Opel’s large-scale product offensive with 27 new models and 17 new engines being brought to market between 2014 and 2018. The next highlight will be the new Astra that will celebrate its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
