Future is Now: New Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

• Hydrogen fuel: Three-minute refuelling for up to 400 km range (WLTP 1)
• Opel Vivaro-e basis: Fuel cell system in engine bay, hydrogen tanks replace battery
• Smart concept: Benefits in performance and durability
• Pioneer: Stellantis first to put hydrogen LCVs onto the road
• Made in Germany: Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN assembled in Rüsselsheim

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is the ideal light commercial vehicle for fleet customers who want to cover long distances or who need to refuel within minutes. Electrically powered Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle with plug-in battery. Packaging of the technology is so compact that it makes no compromises on cargo space compared with conventional powertrains. The range is up to 400 kilometres (WLTP 1) and it takes only three minutes to refuel with hydrogen – about the same time needed to fill up a conventional diesel or petrol car. Vehicle offers a cargo volume of up to 6.1 cubic metres and a payload of 1,000 kilogrammes as well as a towing capacity of 1,000 kg. The Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is available in lengths M and L (4.95 and 5.30 m) and has already joined the fleet of Miele, the German premium domestic appliance manufacturer.

Clever concept: Long range, zero emissions, quick refuelling

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is based on the battery electric Opel Vivaro-e, the “2021 International Van of the Year”. Principle of Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is simple: from hydrogen and air, the fuel cell generates electricity to drive the electric motor. Only product of this reaction is pure water vapour out of the exhaust.

Plug-in fuel cell concept of the Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN enables the integration of the whole fuel cell system with the existing traction motor under the bonnet. In addition, the battery of the Vivaro-e BEV (battery electric vehicle) is replaced by three 700 bar hydrogen tanks with a capacity of 4.4 kg

45 kW fuel cell can generate enough power for longer stretches of highway driving, while the 10.5 kWh lithium-ion battery located under the front seats provides dynamic peak power when required, for example, at start-up and under acceleration. Since the battery covers power needs in such situations, the fuel cell can run at optimum operating conditions. 

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN also features regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability offers the opportunity to recharge the battery externally, if necessary, e.g. at a charging station, providing 50 km of pure battery electric range. A three-phase onboard charger (11 kW) and a mode 2 charging cable are standard.

Ready for everything: Two lengths and up to 6.1 m3 of cargo volume

Thanks to smart packaging, Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN makes no compromises on space compared to the combustion engine versions, offering up to 5.3 (size M) or 6.1 m3 (size L) of cargo volume. The payload of the fuel cell electric LCV is 1,000 kg. Loading/unloading is easy via the sliding doors on each side and the rear doors.

Like its battery-electric sibling and those with internal combustion engines, Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN offers an unusually wide range of driver assistance systems that enhance safety. The equipment includes a 180-degree panorama rear view camera, blind-spot alert and front/rear park pilot.

Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment system operates via voice recognition or colour touchscreen and is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation system offers maps for Europe, dynamic route guidance and TMC. Users can also cool or heat the vehicle during recharging via “OpelConnect” and programme charging times with the “myOpel” app.

Production of the Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is currently beginning and ramping up at Opel Special Vehicles (OSV) in Rüsselsheim. Opel and Stellantis have more than 20 years of experience in the development of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.

With the new Vivaro-e HYDROGEN, Opel is continuing its electrification offensive. Customers have the choice of selecting the drive concept in the Opel LCV portfolio that suits their application. The Vivaro e HYDROGEN complements the Combo-e Cargo, Vivaro-e and Movano-e battery-electric light commercial vehicles. Opel will offer an electrified version of every passenger car and LCV model by 2024.

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

Red, Agile, Electric: Opel Rocks-e on duty with Opel Plant Fire Brigade

• Allrounder: For young drivers, commuters, deliveries and now the Opel fire brigade
• Advantage: Diminutive Opel Rocks-e can reach every corner of Rüsselsheim plant
• All on-board: Special signalling system, flashing lights, fire brigade livery

Opel Rocks-e is small, manoeuvrable, electric – and emissions-free. E-midget is also versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, such as for commuting or for deliveries. Opel fire brigade in Rüsselsheim is also experiencing this versatility, as a red Opel Rocks-e has gone into service there.

Smallest vehicle in the fire brigade's fleet is a real one-off. But the fire-red livery, special signalling system, flashing front lights and emergency numbers make its purpose clear. Opel Rocks-e is equipped with everything needed for duty on the Rüsselsheim plant premises. With plenty of space available under the passenger seat and in the footwell for tools, the zero-emissions quadricycle is fit for duty on the 1.9 km2 site, for example, to check fire extinguishers.

Using the agile Opel Rocks-e – whose turning circle is only 7.20 metres – the fire brigade drives emissions-free and can reach every corner of the premises quickly. Range of 75 kilometres (according to WLTP 1) is more than enough. Instead of parking the vehicle at the door and walking the rest of the way through the expansive buildings, as was previously the case, the firemen are allowed to drive inside thanks to the electric propulsion system, the 2.41-m length and the 1.39-m (excl. exterior mirrors) width. That saves a lot of time. Opel Rocks-e is also an eye-catcher wherever it goes and always puts a smile on employees’ faces.

Opel Rocks-e for the Rüsselsheim plant fire brigade was jointly created by the firemen themselves, colleagues from Advanced Engineering and OSV (Opel Special Vehicles). With this unique conversion, the German brand once again demonstrates the versatility of the diminutive electric vehicle. Innovative Opel Rocks-e is not only a stylish, affordable entry ticket to electric mobility for young people aged 152 and over; soon it will also be available in delivery vehicle format as Opel Rocks-e KARGO.

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

[2] Applies to four-wheeled light motor vehicles with a rated continuous/utilised power not exceeding 6 kW, with no more than two seats and a maximum speed not exceeding 45 km/h.

Into the Hydrogen-Based Future Now, with Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

• First customer: Miele will operate zero-emissions transporter
• For fleet use: Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN fuel cell electric vehicle
• Time-saving: 3-minute refuelling for more than 400 km range (WLTP 1)
• No compromises: Up to 6.1 m3 of cargo volume and 1,000 kg payload
• Pioneer: Stellantis first to put hydrogen LCVs onto the road
• Made in Germany: Series-production at Opel HQ in Rüsselsheim

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

First hydrogen transporter from a vehicle manufacturer is ready to go. First Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN off the production line will begin its emissions-free work in the fleet of the German manufacturer of premium domestic appliances, Miele. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicle from the brand with the Blitz will perform daily field service in the Rhine-Main region. Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz and Head of Development Marcus Lott were present at the start of production in Rüsselsheim.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

“With the new Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN we are opening the next chapter in our sustainable mobility offensive. Clever concept combines the advantages of hydrogen fuel cell propulsion with the versatility and capabilities of our best-selling light commercial vehicle,” said Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz at Opel's headquarters in Rüsselsheim.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN: Head of Development Marcus Lott & Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz 

Head of Development Marcus Lott added: “New Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN perfectly meets the requirements of fleet customers. Hydrogen van is the ideal solution for driving long distances with zero emissions as well as for transporting larger loads without losing time while charging the batteries. Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN leads zero-emissions mobility into the future, especially for commercial use.”

Clever concept: Long driving range, zero emissions, quick refuelling

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is based on the existing battery electric Opel Vivaro-e, the “2021 International Van of the Year”. With full tanks of hydrogen, driving range is more than 400 kilometres (WLTP 1). The 45 kW fuel cell is capable of generating enough power for continuous highway driving. It takes only three minutes to refuel with hydrogen – about the same time needed to fill up a conventional diesel or petrol vehicle.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN: With full tanks of hydrogen, driving range is more than 400 kilometres

The 10.5 kWh lithium-ion battery provides dynamic peak power when required, for example, at start-up and under acceleration. Since the battery covers power needs in such situations, the fuel cell can run at optimum operating conditions. Battery also enables regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability offers the opportunity to recharge the battery externally if necessary, e.g. at a charging station, providing 50 km of pure battery electric range. Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN features a three-phase on-board charger (11 kW) and a mode 2 charging cable as standard.

Thanks to smart packaging, Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN demands no compromises on space compared to the combustion engine versions, offering up to 5.3 or 6.1 cubic metres of cargo volume. Fuel cell electric LCV is available in lengths M and L (4.95 and 5.30 metres) with up to 1,000 kilogrammes of payload.

Like its battery-electric sibling and those with internal combustion engines, Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN offers an unusually wide range of driver assistance systems that enhance safety. The equipment includes a 180-degree panorama rear view camera, blind-spot alert and front/rear park pilot.

Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment system operates via voice recognition or colour touchscreen and is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation system offers maps for Europe, dynamic route guidance and TMC. Users can also cool or heat the vehicle during recharging via “OpelConnect” and programme charging times with the “myOpel” app.

New Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN benefits from more than 20 years of experience in the development of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles at Opel and Stellantis. Production takes place at Opel Special Vehicles (OSV) in Rüsselsheim. With the new Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN, Opel is continuing its electrification offensive. Customers have choice of selecting drive concept in the Opel LCV portfolio that suits their application. Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN complements the Combo-e, Vivaro-e and Movano-e battery-electric vans that are already available to order.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

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

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN: Plug-In Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Offers Zero Emissions and Quick Refuelling

• No compromises: Up to 6.1 m3 cargo volume, 3-minute refuelling, 400 km range,
• Opel Vivaro-e basis: Fuel cell system in engine bay, hydrogen tanks replace battery
• Smart design: Plug-in fuel cell concept benefits packaging, performance and durability
• Made in Germany: Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN will be assembled in Rüsselsheim

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

Opel today unveiled a new electrically powered light commercial vehicle that will enable zero emission mobility for customers who need to refuel within minutes. Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN is a plug-in fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) with up to 6.1 cubic metres of cargo capacity (the same as the diesel or battery electric versions of the Vivaro) that needs only three minutes to refuel with hydrogen – about the same time needed to fill up a conventional diesel or petrol car. Range is more than 400 kilometres (WLTP 1). Opel will offer the Vivaro-e HYDROGEN in lengths M and L (4.95 and 5.30 metres). Company plans to start delivering the first vehicles to fleet customers in the autumn.

Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller

“Hydrogen could be the central element of an integrated and efficient energy system of the future, free of fossil fuels”, says Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller. “We have more than 20 years of experience in hydrogen fuel cell vehicle technology. There is hardly another propulsion system in the world that offers the combination of zero emissions, long driving range and only three minutes refuelling time.”

Efficient, durable, space-saving: Benefits of plug-in fuel cell concept

New fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) is based on the existing battery electric Opel Vivaro-e with two sliding side-doors. Plug-in fuel cell concept of the Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN enables the integration of the whole fuel cell system with the existing traction motor under the bonnet of the production vehicle. In addition, the battery of the Opel Vivaro-e BEV (battery electric vehicle) is replaced by three 700 bar hydrogen tanks. The carbon-fibre cylinders can be filled in just three minutes, giving a range of more than 400 km. Thanks to the smart packaging, the battery electric version thus becomes a fuel cell electric LCV without any modifications to the body and with no impact on the 5.3 to 6.1 m3 of cargo space, while the payload increases to 1,100 kg.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN with its 45 kW fuel cell is capable of generating enough power for continuous highway driving, while the 10.5 kWh lithium-ion battery located under the front seats provides dynamic peak power when required, for example, at start-up and under acceleration. Since the battery covers power needs in such situations, the fuel cell can run at optimum operating conditions. The battery also enables regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability offers the opportunity to recharge the battery externally if necessary, e.g. at a charging station, providing 50 km of pure battery electric range.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN will be produced by Opel Special Vehicles (OSV) in Rüsselsheim, Germany. Global “Competence Centre for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells” of the parent company Stellantis is also located in Opel’s hometown.

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN complements Vivaro-e and Combo-e as the newest member of Opel’s all-electric LCV family. Next new model, new Opel Movano-e, will also arrive in 2021, meaning that the brand’s entire light commercial vehicle portfolio will be electric by the end of this year. Opel will offer an electrified version of every passenger car and LCV model by 2024.

[1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151).

!NEW! Opel Insignia Sports Tourer and Opel Vivaro Rescue Vehicles at RETTmobil 2017

• Mobile command vehicle: Opel Insignia Sports Tourer in fire department outfit
• Fire department personnel carrier: Opel Vivaro tailored ex works

Mobile HQ: The new Opel Insignia Sports Tourer makes its debut at RETTmobil 2017 as a command vehicle for the fire service.

Opel will show two new emergency service vehicles at the 17^th RETTmobil in Fulda. An Insignia Sports Tourer mobile command vehicle and a Vivaro personnel carrier will make their debuts at the international rescue and mobility exhibition. RETTmobil is open to visitors Wednesday through Friday from 09.00CET until 17.00CET. Just like last year, Opel will present its newcomers at booth 505 in tent 5. The expert staff at the Opel stand is ready to inform visitors about the carmaker’s broad portfolio of emergency vehicles and other vehicle conversion options. The emergency service vehicles are made by Opel Special Vehicles in Rüsselsheim.

As fast as the fire department: Opel Insignia Sports Tourer
 

Eye-catching: In its red and yellow color scheme the new Opel Insignia Sports Tourer is immediately recognizable as a command vehicle for the fire service.

Opel is showing the fire department command vehicle with flagship equipment. The Insignia Sports Tourer comes with a 191 kW/260 hp turbocharged 2.0 liter gasoline engine (NEDC fuel consumption: urban 11.5 l/100 km, extra-urban 7.1 l/100 km, combined 8.7 l/100 km, 199 g/km CO₂). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 245 km/h. The Insignia can always transfer its power to the road thanks to its intelligent all-wheel drive with torque vectoring. This is especially important when the roads are wet or snowy.

Furthermore, drivers can enjoy the new 8-speed automatic transmission, which allows them to keep their hands on the steering wheel even in the most dangerous situations. The Sports Tourer is equipped with a special signal system and LED front flashers to ensure that it arrives on site safely. In addition, a tailored equipment carrier in the spare wheel well of the trunk ensures safe storage of radio and fire-fighting related additional equipment.

All aboard: Opel Vivaro for nine fire fighters

Very spacious: Opel Vivaro Combi as crew transportation can accommodate up to nine fire fighters and their equipment.

Elsewhere, Opel will also display their light commercial vehicle bestseller at the RETTmobil. The Vivaro Combi fire department personnel carrier has a gross permissible weight of 2.9 tons and can carry up to nine people. Under the hood it can rely on the 107 kW/145 hp 1.6 BiTurbo (NEDC diesel consumption: urban 6.6 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.4 l/100 km, combined 5.9 l/100 km, 152 g/km CO₂). In general, the 5.40 meter long L2 variant of the Vivaro impresses with good driving performance, ample space, a high load capacity and comfort in abundance. Up front, it comes with a three-way adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support along with a double bench-seat. Removable three-seat-benches in the second and third row ensure plenty of knee room – which is especially important for quick ingress and egress. A mesh installed behind the third row of seats protects the fire fighters from equipment stored in the trunk in extreme driving situations.

Just like the Opel Insignia command vehicle the Opel Vivaro is equipped with an LED special signal systems with the obligatory siren. Furthermore it catches other road users’ attention with its front and rear flashers. Thanks to a built-in preliminary radio communication set-up, the fire fighters can connect their various devices individually.

Command center: In the Opel Vivaro Combi the centrally placed controls for the emergency signal system are within easy reach.

The eye-catching signal graphics of both vehicles on display come from design112. The Hessian company has been specialized in special decals for two decades and works closely with Opel Special Vehicles.

!NEW! Frugal Fun: New Opel Corsa E now with LPG

• Thrifty and affordable: Fuel costs almost 50% lower, attractive entry-level price of 14,745 euros
• Clean and economical: Opel Corsa 1.4 LPG cuts CO₂ emissions down to 113 g/km
• Refined and powerful: Long range, lively performance with 66 kW/90 hp

New Opel Corsa 1.4 LPG: Fuel costs almost 50% lower, attractive entry-level price of 14,745 euros.

Introducing the Mr. Clean of the Corsa family – green, powerful and economical, the new Opel Corsa 1.4 LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) ecoFLEX develops 66 kW/90 hp and comes straight from the factory with a bi-fuel capability. Specifically aimed at cost-conscious customers, this latest member of the new Corsa family is an ideal choice in the small car segment because LPG drivers’ wallets benefit two-fold. On the one hand, fuel costs plummet by almost 50 percent compared to gasoline due to the low price of LPG, while on the other hand, the Corsa 1.4 LPG ecoFLEX boasts a particularly attractive entry-level price. The three-door model is now available from just 14,745 euros, and the five-door model from 15,495 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

Clean and economical: New Opel Corsa 1.4 LPG cuts CO2 emissions down to 113 g/km.

The Corsa LPG is not only extremely cost-efficient, but also kinder to the environment. That’s because LPG, a mixture of butane and propane gas which the four-cylinder engine burns under the Corsa’s shapely hood, is known for its super-clean combustion characteristics. Using this fuel, the new Corsa consumes just 6.9 liters per 100 km over the combined cycle and emits only 113 g/km CO2 – around 13 percent less CO2 than in gasoline operation. The nitrogen oxide emissions are even up to 80 percent lower.

“With the 1.3 CDTI, which consumes just 3.1 liters diesel, and our brand-new 1.4 LPG ecoFLEX, we have two real ‘eco-champions’ in the Corsa line-up. Once again, they both show how important energy efficiency and CO2 emissions reductions are for us in all model ranges,” says Peter Christian Küspert, Opel Group Vice President Sales and Aftersales. “But these models aren’t only attractive for especially cost-conscious drivers. They also offer many features that go far beyond what’s normally found in the small car class, such as ample space, superb comfort, state-of-the-art connectivity and driver assistance systems.”

Bi-Fuel driving: Long range with low fuel costs and emissions

The Opel Corsa 1.4 LPG offers 66 kW/90 hp in both LPG and gasoline operation and is available with a five-speed manual transmission. It needs just 6.9 liters per 100 km in alternative fuel mode, while CO2 emissions of 113 g/km are around 13 percent lower than in conventional gasoline operation. Fuel costs are reduced by almost 50 percent compared to gasoline. This huge saving is the result of tax benefits stipulated for LPG until 2018. And, looking further ahead, the prospects look promising because tax advantages for alternative fuels are expected to be extended on both the national and European levels.

Space saving and safe: The LPG tank’s installation in the spare-wheel housing of the trunk is both space-efficient and collision-protected.

Another benefit of the new-generation LPG Corsa is that, like all Opel LPG models, it comes ready for bi-fuel operation ex-works. The driver can switch between LPG and gasoline by pushing a button. A newly developed control module now enables an even more efficiently synchronized transition between the two operating modes. This means a driving range of up to 1,200 km is possible without having to stop to refuel. Range and consumption can be viewed separately for LPG and gasoline, as well as combined via an on-board computer. Today there are around 7,000 LPG filling stations in Germany and more than 35,000 across Europe.

Bi-Fuel driving: The new Corsa runs with either LPG or gasoline. In combination, this means a driving range of up to 1,200 km.

Space-saving and safe: Complete everyday use with LPG

The LPG tank’s installation in the spare-wheel housing of the trunk is both space-efficient and collision-protected. As a result, the Opel Corsa LPG still offers accommodation for five people or up to 1,120 liters of luggage space, just like its Corsa siblings. It also features the same ultra-modern driver assistance systems and equipment features – from standard City mode, optional steering wheel heating and automatic Park Assist all the way to Opel’s award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system complete with 7-inch color touchscreen.

!NEW! 40 years of Opel Safety Vehicle: The safe route from Kadett C to Astra J

• 40 years ago: Opel Safety Vehicle masters impact speed of 40 mph
• Opel Kadett C called OSV 40: Impact protection, on-board warning system, safety seats
• Astra today: Ultra-modern Assistance Systems with Camera, Radar and Sensors

OSV 40 and the Opel Astra J: The current Opel compact car is reaping the rewards of 40 years of development.

„Don’t start without a seatbelt“, was the slogan of a campaign launched in Germany in 1974 to persuade drivers to wear seatbelts. Two years later, wearing seatbelts became compulsory and in 1984 fines for not wearing them were introduced. Opel has been equipping all models with seatbelts as standard since 1973 and the following year, gave a visionary outlook into the safety technology of the future. The Opel Safety Vehicle, a close-to-production research vehicle based on the Kadett C, mastered a frontal impact of 40 mph (roughly 65 km/h) and paved the way for the development of further safety features. The impact speed in miles also gave the Kadett its name: OSV 40. The current Opel Astra demonstrates the evolution since those early days. The compact car is reaping the rewards of 40 years of development and has exemplary passenger safety and ultra-modern assistance systems.

OSV 40 and the Opel Astra J

OSV 40 – Opel Safety Vehicle masters impact speed of 40 mph

The name says it all: OSV stand for Opel Safety Vehicle, the number 40 for the frontal impact speed in miles per hour that the OSV 40 was designed to resist.

Exactly 40 years ago, the Rüsselsheim-based company showed its idea of a safe compact car at the second International Technical Conference on the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles held in London. The engineers were handed a Kadett C, presented the previous year, and could let their imagination run wild when it came to safety. The technicians were allowed to choose the name themselves and decided on OSV or Opel Safety Vehicle. The number 40 stands for the frontal impact speed in miles per hour that the OSV 40 was designed to resist. Despite the extended safety features the cars was not to weigh more than 1,000 kilograms.

Impact energy absorbed by polyurethane foam

The first thing an onlooker notices is how voluminous fenders are compared to modern fenders. The OSV 40 fenders were filled with polyurethane foam which gave them their absorbing capacity. Foam-filled side members that break in a controlled way at impact speeds above eight kilometers per hour were used at the front. The foam structure absorbed enough energy that frontal impacts below this speed only resulted in a small deformation – thus the predecessor of the “self-healing” fender was created. The engineers also filled the cavities of the sills and doors with polyurethane foam in order to create increased safety reserves for a side impact. Reinforced roof rails and backrests of the front seats that were fixed to the roof via a belt construction, the seats could still be adjusted, increased the stability of the passenger compartment considerably. Furthermore, the windshield made from laminated glass was glued directly to the bodywork – also with the goal of increasing body stiffness in mind.

Interior also reflects safety approach

Inside the car, all surfaces with which the passengers could come into contact in case of an accident were cushioned with a two-centimeter layer of polyurethane foam. The steering was fitted with an additional angled element in the lower steering column sector.

Safety also came first in the cockpit of the OSV-40. The central warning system made by Hella controlled eleven functions and showed possible errors by the associated warning lamps lighting up. Four additional lights behind the rear window signaled emergency braking and also doubled as hazard lights. Due to their high positioning, they were easy to see for following road users. A split rear view mirror enabled a perfect view with the lower part reducing the blind spot to a minimum.

All-round protection: Reinforced roof rails and backrests of the front seats that were fixed to the roof via a belt construction increased the stability of the passenger compartment considerably.

The front seats were widened to create a continuous boundary to the rear compartment. The side supports, especially in the shoulder area, prevented the driver and passenger colliding in case of a side impact. The minimalistic head rests of the front seats ensured that the driver had a good view to the rear. The belt construction restraint system for the heads of passengers in the rear also ensured safety and overview. The four seats of OSV 40 all had three point belts – the ones in the front even already had an automatic seat belt tension system.

All crash tests passed with flying colors

The OSV 40 met all of the objectives during the crash tests: All four doors could still be opened without the help of tools after a frontal impact at 40 mph with a solid obstacle. The front section of the car absorbed the energy so well that it was shortened by 50 cm due to the cold-drawing phase. The OSV 40 was equally impressive during a frontal collision with a pylon at 50 km/h, a rear impact, a side impact with a post and during the rollover test at 48 km/h.

Opel OSV 40: Technical data

Length in mm	4,318
Width in mm	1,580
Height in mm	1,370
Front track in mm	1,330
Rear track in mm	1,301
Weight in kg	965
Displacement in cm3	1,196
Max. output in kW (hp) / at rpm	44 (65) / 5,600
Max. torque in Nm / at rpm	95 / 3,400

Opel Astra J: State-of-the-art safety systems

The new representative of the Opel compact class shows just how dynamic the development started in 1974 continued. In addition to the structural strength that has come to be expected, the Opel Astra offers extensive passive safety features and a string of ultra-modern driver assistance systems that increase the safety and comfort for the drivers and passengers decisively.

The second generation of the Opel Eye Front Camera is the foundation for the driver assistance systems. The engineers optimized the Lane Departure Warning and the Traffic Sign Recognition functions. The camera processes numerous levels of brightness and can even recognize dynamic LED signs. A further aid available in combination with the Opel Eye Front Camera is a distance indicator. It shows the driver the distance to a vehicle in front (in seconds).

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Keeps distance to vehicle in front

Even safer and more comfortable: The radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) helps the driver to maintain the selected speed while keeping a pre-set safety distance to the vehicle ahead. In addition to speed, the desired gap to the vehicle ahead can also be selected by the driver – with three options available: far, medium, close. When ACC is activated, the radar constantly checks the distance up to a range of 150 meters ahead; the selected gap to the closest vehicle in the same lane is shown in the center screen of the display.

Opel Astra J: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

In case the driver does not react to the audible and visual warnings by braking in a critical situation and the system calculates a potential impact, it may decelerate the car automatically in an extreme case. The Opel Astra is decelerated with help of a brake system that can look to the advantages of a latest generation Anti-lock Braking System and an extended Electronic Stability Program (ESP Plus).

Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL): Perfect lighting for all conditions

The latest generation of safety lighting system Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) with Bi-Xenon headlamps includes a large package of intelligent lighting functions such as: High Beam Light Assistant, Dynamic Curve Light, Static Cornering Light and adaptive lighting, which reacts automatically to the prevailing driving situation such as route profile (freeway, highway, city) and visibility (sun, fog, rain) and adjusts the headlamps accordingly. The arrow-like design of the LED daytime running lamps, which come as standard, give the Astra a distinctive appearance.

Extensive package for passive safety

Even if all of the systems for the active safety reach their limits, Astra drivers can trust in an extensive passive safety package. A total of six airbags come as standard. If a situation occurs in which an airbag or a belt tensioner is activated, the hazard warning lights come on and the doors are unlocked automatically. Obviously, the Astra is also fitted with the Opel-patented Pedal Release System (PRS) which decouples the pedals in the event of a frontal collision, reducing the risk of injury to feet and lower legs considerably.

Opel-patented Pedal Release System (PRS) 

!NEW! Opel at the RETTmobil 2014 New Vivaro, Movano and Insignia

• Insignia Country Tourer: Emergency medical/fire brigade command vehicles
• Movano: Fire-fighting vehicle with portable fire pump and disabled transport vehicle
• New Vivaro: Panel van with blue light bar as basis for emergency services use
• Opel rescue data sheets: Online access to vital vehicle information 

Double eye-catcher at the RETTmobil 2014: Opel Insignia Country Tourer as an emergency medical vehicle and a command vehicle for the fire brigade.

Opel Insignia Country Tourer again shows just how versatile it is as a double eye-catcher at the RETTmobil 2014 in the form of an emergency medical vehicle and a command vehicle for the fire brigade. Opel presents the flexibility of its models at the leading European trade show for rescue and mobility in Fulda from May 14 to 16. Next to the Insignia Country Tourer, the new Vivaro will also be on display, modified for the first time with a blue light bar for emergency applications. The Movano is available as a disabled transport vehicle and as a portable fire pump vehicle for the fire department.

Opel Insignia Country Tourer as an emergency medical vehicle and a command vehicle for the fire brigade.

The special use vehicles are built in collaboration with the company’s subsidiary Opel Special Vehicles GmbH (OSV) and certified conversion partners. Company experts are available on all three days of the exhibition to answer questions on individual special equipment and retrofitting options at the Opel stand 505 in Hall 5.

Made by OSV: Insignia Country Tourer as ambulance and firefighting vehicle

Opel Special Vehicles GmbH is responsible for converting the Opel Insignia Country Tourer into an attention-getting emergency medical vehicle. The all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with the powerful BiTurbo diesel engine can quickly and securely get to emergency sites. The vehicle livery in luminous bright red, the blue lettering "AMBULANCE" on the front doors and the hood, two LED front flashing lights as well as two rear warning lights and the retroreflective rear hazard markers clearly identify the flexible station wagon as a special model. In the interior, equipment includes the 230-volt electrical system, ignition override unit, preliminary setup for analog and digital radio as well as accident data storage. Various versions of the special priority vehicle signaling system are available.

Made by OSV: Opel Special Vehicles GmbH is responsible for converting the Opel Insignia Country Tourer into an attention-getting emergency medical vehicle.

But the Opel Insignia Country Tourer is not only ideally equipped for use as an emergency medical vehicle – it also meets all the requirements for use as a fire brigade command vehicle. Visitors to the trade show can view it at the Sortimo International GmbH stand (Hall B, Stand 1906). The red-white-yellow livery and the "FIRE BRIGADE" lettering on the hood and side doors, the prominently displayed emergency number 112, as well as the priority vehicle signaling system on the roof are all visible from afar. The attention-grabbing vehicle design of the two Insignia Country Tourer versions is from the specialized lettering company design 112.

Versatile Opel Insignia Country Tourer: It also meets all the requirements for use as a fire brigade command vehicle.

Coachbuilder variants: New Vivaro and Movano special use vehicles

The new Opel Vivaro is not only suitable for the most diverse transport tasks, it also forms the optimum basis for special use and emergency vehicles. The magma red, all-purpose Opel bestseller shows this in Fulda for the first time in a modified form with blue light bar.

The Opel Movano is distinguished by the same qualities. The company Oberaigner has given the versatile Opel van high-performance, on-demand four-wheel drive that can be activated by simply pushing a button via a panel in the cockpit. The Movano thus offers excellent driving performance even with a heavy payload and is predestined for use in rescue services. A Movano converted to a portable fire pump vehicle by BTG Brandschutztechnik Görlitz GmbH will also be on exhibit at the Opel stand at the RETTmobil. The box body accommodates the special use and emergency equipment. The vehicle also has exterior mirrors with extended arms, step protection at the doors as well as a comfort seat for the driver.

Red thunderbolt: A Movano converted to a portable fire pump vehicle by BTG Brandschutztechnik Görlitz GmbH will also be on exhibit at the Opel stand at the RETTmobil.

The Movano Trabus L3 converted to a disabled transport vehicle by the firm Ambulanz Mobile will also be on show in Fulda. Its equipment includes a linear lift, steps and individual seats. With a seat rail system the Movano offers ample space for up to six large wheelchairs.

Opel rescue data sheets: Vital information at your fingertips

In the event of an accident, it is not only important that rescue services quickly arrive at the scene, but also that they have immediate access to the vehicle information of the car involved. This happens quite simply at the touch of a button: using a normal Smartphone, the information can be called up from around 2,200 rescue data sheets available on the Internet in 25 languages for 87 Opel models from model year 1991 at www.opel-rescuecard.com. Further information, for example on electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles or on the subject of "Accident aid and recovery of high-voltage vehicles" is available on the Opel website www.ifz-berlin.de.

!NEW! Red-White Opel ADAM Ideal Addition to Fire Brigades

Unlimited variants: Individualization champion also suitable as First Responder car

Long tradition: Opel models saving lives since early 20^th century

Right-of-way for safety: Opel has had own professional plant fire brigade since 1911

New Opel ADAM Fire First Responder Concept and Opel Blitz Fire truck

The Opel ADAM is the absolute individualization champion – privately and in future, maybe also for the fire department. The bold urban car now also shows its suitability for rescue services as a speedy fire brigade vehicle. The series production Opel ADAM offer encompasses 12 body colors and three additional combinable roof colors – as a fire brigade study it comes exclusively in red-white signal colors. The small lifestyle car continues the tradition of Opel lifesavers – which started over 100 years ago in the form of the “Doctor’s Car” – in an unconventional way.

New Opel ADAM Fire First Responder Concept

Fire brigade first responder Opel ADAM: Safety down to the smallest detail

Opel Special Vehicles GmbH transformed the stylish urban Opel ADAM into a spectacular fire brigade first responder vehicle. The study sporting red-white applications of the emergency number 112 clearly visible on the hood, side doors and trunk lid as well as special alarm signals on the roof and two LED front flashing lights is a real attention-getter. In addition, the fire brigade ADAM features an interior push-pull-rotary alarm switch as well as a portable Tetra two-way radio in a holder on the center console. The special-use equipment joins high-tech innovations like the IntelliLink infotainment system that is compatible with iPhones and Android smartphones, and that makes the ADAM the best connected small car. The multi-award winning newcomer also features equipment and technology options including fully automatic park assist, heated steering wheel in combination with heated front seats, blind spot alert, hands-free docking station for smartphones called FlexDock, 18” wheels featuring red-white color clips and LED daytime running lights.

An especially practical detail of the fire brigade ADAM is in the rear: a special design by the company Bösenberg ensures that emergency backpack, defibrillator, fire extinguisher and fire helmet stay securely in place even during high-speed travel on rescue calls.

Life saver with the blitz: Rescue services vehicles have long tradition at Opel

At just under 3.7 meters in length and with a host of innovative technologies, the agile urban car ADAM is ideal as a first responder vehicle in heavy city traffic. It leads Opel rescue services vehicles into the future while continuing an over 100 year-long tradition of Opel cars for emergency services.

The first example of this was the “Opel 4/8 hp” from 1909. There was good reason the two-seater was soon known under the name “Doctor’s Car”. Smaller and more agile than conventional cars, it could maneuver much more easily in narrow streets – very useful for doctors, who could thus get to their patients easier and faster.

The importance of professional rescue personnel and the corresponding equipment was something the automaker found out for itself just two years later. In 1911 a big fire destroyed large parts of the Rüsselsheim plant. As a direct result, a professional Opel fire brigade which supported the existing volunteer fire department was established and the “motorized fire pump” was developed for the plant fire brigade. Opel set new technical standards with its first models. The fire brigade vehicles quickly gained both national and international customers’ attention. A famous example of the brand’s rescue vehicles is the Opel Blitz. Various chassis layouts built the basis for personnel transport vehicles carrying up to nine occupants as well as for fire-extinguishing tank trucks.

In 1952 a new Blitz was developed, and due to its popularity with fire fighters it quickly became market leader. Its lively and, if necessary, overloadable carburetor engine was extremely robust. For some smaller fire departments the fire truck 8 based on the Opel Blitz 1.75 t was their first motor vehicle – many of these models stayed in service until well into the 1980s.

Today Opel subsidiary Opel Special Vehicles GmbH (OSV) builds special vehicles for police, ambulance and fire brigades from series production cars. These range from tailor-made Astra five-door and Sport Tourer versions, Insignia Sports Tourer, Corsa, Antara and the Zafira family to the spacious compact van Zafira Tourer. Together with certified conversion partners, the Opel models Vivaro and Movano are also available as multi-utility, crew, emergency medical services and small fire-extinguishing vehicles.

New Opel Zafira Tourer - LPG technology powers 1.4 Turbo, 140 hp engine

• Opel extends its offer of cost efficient LPG versions to nine models
• LPG technology installed Ex Works with Two Year Warranty
• Zafira Tourer now available as LPG, CNG, gasoline and diesel version
  
  
  
  Opel is extending its Zafira Tourer model portfolio with a new liquefied petroleum gas powered version, a 103 kW/140 hp, 1.4 LPG ecoFLEX turbo engine. The powerhouse provides the same output and torque of 200 Nm (1,850 – 4,900 rpm) in both the cost efficient LPG and gasoline operation modes. With its new LPG offer, the Zafira Tourer thus shows that it is just as versatile in its powertrain variants as it is inside its cabin: the master of versatility offers all conventional propulsion types in its portfolio. Opel is one of the very few car makers in the segment of the seven seater compact vans that offers gasoline, diesel, CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) ex works. In the LPG mode the Zafira Tourer 1.4 LPG Turbo ecoFLEX engine only consumes 8.6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, equivalent to 139g/CO₂ (gasoline mode: 6.7 l/100 km, 156 g/km CO₂). Compared to gasoline propulsion, the LPG mode is around 40 percent cheaper (based on an average price per liter of high octane fuel of 1.60 euro compared to 0.76 euro for LPG). In this manner, not only the costs at the gas station but the CO₂ emissions can be significantly decreased. The entry level price for the Zafira Tourer 1.4 turbo LPG ecoFLEX starts at 27,050 euro (rrp. for Germany including VAT).
  
  

  With the Zafira Tourer LPG, Opel is increasing its LPG fleet to nine models. It is complementing the already existing broad offer of the brand which covers several vehicles lines: the Corsa (three and five door), the Meriva and Astra (five door and Sports Tourer) plus the Insignia (four and five door sedan as well as Sports Tourer).
  
  
  
  
  Extended range thanks to LPG
  The 1.4 l turbocharged Zafira Tourer LPG engine has been optimized for the use of liquefied petroleum gas. For the LPG variant, Opel engineers strengthened the engine valves and valve seat inserts and optimized the engine control unit. The LPG tank which has a usable filling volume of around 60 liters is perfectly integrated under the car floor so that the full load capacity is maintained and the high flexibility of the optional Zafira Tourer “Lounge seating” system is available. With a single tank of fuel, the Zafira Tourer achieves a maximum range of around 650 kilometers; if the gasoline tank is used in addition a range of up to 1,500 kilometers can even be reached.
  The driver can easily alternate between the LPG and gasoline propulsion mode: either automatically when the LPG tank is empty or with a switch in the instrument panel. An LED display is illuminated when the car operates with LPG; as soon as the vehicle is in the gasoline mode the light is off. The fuel tank gauge is particularly user friendly: both LPG and gasoline reserves are displayed in the same gauge.
  
  
  LPG system Ex Works: Saves space, Safe and comes with Warranty
  The LPG system installation ex works has major advantages compared to other retrofit solutions. For example, the Opel safety checklist includes specific crash tests for the gas tank and other components which are housed in collision proof areas and are perfectly integrated into the safety structure of the vehicle.
  Like in the Zafira CNG version, the gas tanks are perfectly integrated under the floor of the car, ensuring that the load compartment is always maintained spacious and not restricted. Customers can be sure that their LPG vehicle is equipped with state-of-the art technology ex works which lives up to the typical Opel values of durability, manufacturer warranty and maximum safety.
  Like all the other Opel LPG models, the Zafira Tourer LPG is assembled at the Opel Special Vehicles GmbH (OSV), an Opel subsidiary with expertise in special vehicle lines and modifications based in Rüsselsheim.
  

  
  

  LPG: Environmentally Friendly, Cost Effective and Universally Available

  LPG propulsion is gaining in popularity in Germany and Europe. This is hardly surprising as the LPG price at the pumps is around half of the gasoline price. Early 2012, more than 450,000 vehicles of this type were registered in Germany. This is hardly surprising as the price of LPG is almost half of high octane gasoline. Until the year 2018, the German authorities are also granting a fixed tax break for LPG fuel. However, not only does the car owner see the financial rewards but there are also environmental benefits as LPG vehicles emit up to 15 percent less carbon-dioxide than cars with a conventional powertrain. In Germany, this fuel is available at around 6,500 or 45 percent of all gas stations. Europe wide there are more 35,000 in total.