All-Rounder with Style: New Opel Vivaro

• Unique: LCV multi-talent with Opel Vizor brand fascia for first time
• Locally emissions-free: Vivaro Electric with driving range of up to 350 km (WLTP 1), also with new e-Power Take-off unit
• Wide choice of drivetrains: Battery-electric, as Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN fuel cell vehicle, or with efficient diesel engines
• Safety first: 18 driver assistance systems including Dynamic Surround Vision
• Best connections: Class-leading connectivity and two 10-inch colour monitors, cockpit based on Snapdragon Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.2

An all-rounder with a stylish appearance – this is the new Opel Vivaro that the German brand unveiled today. Businesses can rely on the proven virtues of the versatile commercial vehicle and also benefit from many new features. For the first time, the Vivaro – like the Opel car models – features the distinctive Opel Vizor brand fascia, which extends seamlessly into the optional LED headlights. In addition, the new Vivaro makes working life easier; with a total of 18 state-of-the-art assistance systems, including Dynamic Surround Vision soon, every journey becomes safer and more pleasant. In the interior, Vivaro occupants find themselves in a new cockpit: new infotainment systems based on the Snapdragon Cockpit platform from Qualcomm Technologies 2 with two 10-inch screens and wireless smartphone connectivity offer numerous customisation options.

With the new Vivaro, Opel continues its electrification offensive – more modern, more sustainable and, above all, with additional range. The new Opel Vivaro Electric offers a locally emissions-free driving range of up to 350 kilometres (according to WLTP 1). Also unique in this segment is the “e-Power Take-off Unit”, which can be used to supply other electrical devices with power from the traction battery. The new Vivaro will also be available as a further developed hydrogen fuel cell transporter. Every business can therefore choose the type of drivetrain it prefers.

Opel CEO Florian Huettl: “Our best-selling Opel Vivaro is now even more modern, practical and sustainable. With a newly designed, digital cockpit, further extended electric driving range and the innovative HYDROGEN option, the all-rounder is the heart of our LCV offensive. This means that every business can find Opel Vivaro best suited to its requirements.”

Stylish, electrified and practical: New Opel Vivaro unites car and LCV qualities

Versatile and practical in daily use, the new Vivaro is also good looking. The Opel LCV bestseller – like its smaller sibling, the Opel Combo – brings the characteristic Opel Vizor brand fascia to the LCV segment for the first time. The Vizor extends seamlessly across the front of the vehicle, integrating the headlights and the Opel Blitz emblem in the middle.

New Opel Vivaro Electric is available with either a 50 kWh or 75 kWh battery. With the further developed 75 kWh battery on board, a range of up to 350 kilometres (WLTP1) is possible without a charging stop – over 20 km more than before. To ensure particularly energy-efficient driving, the Vivaro Electric has a regenerative braking system that can be adjusted in three recuperation levels using paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. The electric vehicle can be charged quickly using the standard 11 kW onboard charger. At a 100 kW DC fast charging station, a short stop of around 38 minutes for the 50 kWh and 45 minutes for the 75 kWh battery is necessary to charge from 5 to 80 per cent of the battery capacity.

New Opel Vivaro Electric is powered by a 100 kW/136 hp electric motor. The maximum torque of 260 Newton metres is available from the first squeeze of the accelerator, so that the locally emissions-free van can accelerate briskly up to a top speed of 130 km/h. Depending on their preferences, drivers can choose between three driving modes: Normal, Eco and Power.

Completely new is the possibility of using the traction battery as a power source for other electrical devices. This works via the “e Power Take-off Unit” (initially with 400 V), which can be connected to the vehicle. In this way, no additional batteries or generators are needed. In addition, with a height of around 1.90 metres, the Vivaro Electric is suitable for underground parking and, thanks to the practical underfloor design of the battery, offers full versatility in terms of space utilisation and loading volume.

For those who want to drive with zero local emissions and “refuel” even faster, Opel will in future offer the further developed Vivaro HYDROGEN. The fuel cell vehicle has a range of more than 400 km (WLTP1) and can be refuelled with hydrogen in just a few minutes. Highly efficient diesel engines with power outputs from 88 kW/120 hp to 130 kW/177 hp complete the line-up.

The line-up of body variants is as wide as that of the drivetrain: the new Vivaro is available in two lengths (4.98 m and 5.33 m), as a panel van, a crew cab and a platform-chassis for a variety of bodies. Depending on the version, the new Vivaro offers up to 6.6 cubic metres of cargo volume and 1.4 tons of payload.

Car-like: New digital Opel Vivaro cockpit

The new Opel Vivaro cockpit welcomes the driver and crew with car-like ergonomics, comfort and styling. The new infotainment and navigation systems with a digital 10-inch colour driver information centre and 10-inch colour touchscreen above the centre console use – for the first time in Opel light commercial vehicles – the integrated Snapdragon Cockpit platform from Qualcomm Technologies 2 and enable, among other things, state-of-the-art graphics, multimedia and computer vision capabilities. Compatible smartphones can be charged inductively and connected wirelessly to the Multimedia infotainment systems via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Eighteen advanced driver assistance systems make work trips and manoeuvring easier and safer. The new Dynamic Surround Vision is particularly beneficial, especially in a panel van. The system comprises two cameras, one located above the rear doors and another under the passenger-side exterior mirror. The images – of the rear while driving and (when activated by the indicator stalk) of the side blind-spot – are displayed in the new high-definition digital rear view mirror. In comparison to conventional mirrors, the system provides increased vision, enabling the driver to manoeuvre more safely.

Systems such as forward collision alert with emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, lane keep assist, drowsiness alert, trailer stability control and flank guard complete the range of electronic helpers. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go function is also available as a new option for the Vivaro.

In addition, the storage spaces around the instrument panel and the centre console have been enlarged, making it easier to stow everyday items. This makes the new Opel Vivaro a versatile “workhorse” and load carrier, which also offers the comfort and handling similar to those of a car, making the time behind the wheel more pleasant and relaxing. The order books for the new Opel Vivaro and the new Vivaro Electric will open soon.

[1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning. Vehicle not available yet.

[2] Snapdragon branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.

Opel LCV Range: New-Generation Combo, Vivaro and Movano Revealed

• New look: LCV models also with characteristic Opel Vizor brand fascia
• New work space: Refreshed cockpits with up to 10-inch colour touchscreens
• New electric drivetrains: Class-leading driving range

Opel announced that it will introduce new generations of its Combo compact, Vivaro mid-size and Movano large-size Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV). Each model will feature new exterior styling and a redesigned cockpit, while battery-electric versions will continue to offer class-leading driving range. In addition, German brand announced that new Opel Movano will also be available as a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in near future.

Upcoming light commercial vehicle models from brand with Blitz will be immediately recognisable thanks to new, LCV-specific interpretation of Opel Vizor brand fascia familiar from Opel’s newest passenger cars. Vizor integrates brand emblem with signature front lighting systems, creating a single visual unit that stretches fully across face of vehicle.

In addition to exterior design, interiors of new Opel Combo, Vivaro and Movano have undergone further development. Highlights of refreshed cockpits will include new wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible infotainment systems with colour touchscreens up to 10 inches in size.

Battery-electric versions of new Opel Combo, Opel Vivaro and Opel Movano will continue to offer uncompromised usability similar to that of respective combustion engine variants. Thanks to state-of-art battery technologies and enhancements such as further improved drivetrain efficiency, all three will therefore continue to offer class-leading, locally emissions-free battery-electric range.

New range of Opel light commercial vehicles will carry over all strengths of their predecessors. These include a wide range of advanced driver assistance systems to make journeys and manoeuvring more comfortable and above all safer. Furthermore, the trio will be available in various lengths, heights and body types to meet all professional needs, and they will maintain their convincing load volumes, payloads and towing capacities. Opel will reveal more details about the individual vehicle lines in the coming weeks. 

In August, Opel increased car registrations in Germany by around 39 percent compared to the previous year and reached the TOP 5

• Market share of electric cars higher than overall market share
• More than every second newly registered Opel Corsa and Mokka is battery-electric
• Record market share of  9.7 percent for light commercial vehicles

Opel achieved strong results in Germany in August: According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), around 14,700 cars from the Rüsselsheim manufacturer were registered last month. This is around 39 percent more than in August of the previous year. Opel brand thus reached  TOP 5 in  KBA rankings. At 5.4 percent, the passenger car market share was above the previous year's value (5.3 percent), and cumulatively with light commercial vehicles it even reached 5.7 percent.

Battery electric vehicles with the blitz were particularly impressive. Opel's BEV market share was at an annual high of 7.5 percent in August and above the overall passenger car market share. Overall, around 45 percent of all Opel cars newly registered in Germany were battery-electric. This puts Opel well above the overall market, which according to the KBA had a BEV share of around 32 percent in August.

Opel Corsa Electric and Opel Mokka Electric were particularly well received by customers. More than every second newly registered Corsa was battery-electric. Opel Corsa also accounted for around 50 percent of all BEV sales in entire B segment. Two out of three new registrations for Opel Mokka were electric cars.

Opel also scored points in the light commercial vehicle segment in August. There, the Combo , Vivaro and Movano models achieved a new record on the German market with around 2,400 new registrations and a market share of 9.7 percent.

“In August, together with our dealers, we achieved an excellent result in what remained a very dynamic market environment in our home market and grew significantly compared to previous year. Our electrified vehicles are extremely well received by customers. Opel is electric. And both Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric and new Opel Corsa Electric will give us additional tailwind,” explains Opel Germany brand boss Mario Köhler.

Opel currently has 15 electrified vehicles on offer, covering the most important market segments. These also include Opel Rocks Electric city electric car and Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN with hydrogen fuel cell. By 2024, Opel will offer at least one battery-electric model in all series. From 2025, every newly launched Opel will be exclusively electric.

Award-winning Opel Vehicles in 2022: From All-New Opel Astra to Opel Zafira-e Life

• “Astra-nomical”: “Golden Steering Wheel 2022”1 and numerous “Car of the Year” awards for Opel compact class bestseller
• Innovative propulsion concept: “40th KS Energy and Environment Award” for Vivaro-e HYDROGEN
• Opel Rocks-e: Autonis Award for “Best Design Novelty” for the innovative light motor vehicle
• Opel Crosscamp Flex: “Connected Car Award” for future campervan based on Zafira-e Life

2022 was a truly “Astra-nomical” year for Opel. Models with the Blitz once again proved to be equally popular with customers, experts and specialist juries. This is demonstrated by sales successes such as the Opel Corsa, which was the most popular small car in 2022 according to official figures from the KBA (Federal Motor Agency), or the Opel Mokka, which was the best-selling electric vehicle in its segment in Germany in autumn. Further proof is offered by the numerous awards Opel received for its innovative models, technologies and solutions – with the "Golden Steering Wheel 2022"1 for the new Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer leading the way. In 2022, almost every model in the Opel line-up received at least one award.

“Emotional, suitable for everyday use and above all electrified - this is already normal at Opel today,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl. “Models like the new Astra, the Grandland or the Mokka show how we inspire people with future-proof mobility solutions. This is only possible with an exemplary team performance, and this is recognised by experts and customers alike with numerous awards. Thank you for that!”

At the beginning of 2022, Opel received the “The ONE” award for “Most Reputable Passenger Car Brand of the Year” in Turkey. Approachable, innovative and with great attention to detail, the Opel Corsa has been hugely popular for more than 40 years. The small car bestseller received several awards last year on the important British market: It was named "Best Fleet Supermini" by Fleet World, "Used Small Car of the Year" as well as "Used Car of the Year 2023" across all classes by Carbuyer. The Opel Mokka was named "Car of the Year 2022" in Latvia, "Irish Small SUV of the Year 2022" in Ireland and received the "Erin Baker Award" in the United Kingdom for the battery-electric Mokka-e.

All-New Opel Astra takes “Golden Steering Wheel”: Into a new Opel era with the serial winner

In the autumn, another great honour was bestowed on Opel when the new Astra took the “Golden Steering Wheel 2022” 1. And Opel brand ambassador Jürgen Klopp couldn’t hide his delight when seeing his own all-new Astra for the first time, stating: “Wow, there it is”. With its attractive design, top technologies and electrified for the first time as a plug-in hybrid, the compact class newcomer from Rüsselsheim convinced the readers of AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG as well as the expert jury both as a five-door hatchback and as a Sports Tourer estate. The latest generation of the bestseller prevailed against strong competition and won one of the most prestigious awards in the automotive industry as “Best Car up to €50,000”. It thus completed an extraordinary serial success for Opel: After the Opel Corsa-e 2 in 2020 and the Opel Mokka-e 3 in 2021, the coveted award went to Rüsselsheim for the third time in as many years. However, as a true “champion”, the new Astra generation does not rest on its laurels. Independent GCOTY expert jury of the “German Car Awards” also voted the Astra “German Compact Car of the Year 2023” 4. And the Astra Sports Tourer estate has already won the “FAMILY CAR of the Year” award.

Elsewhere, Opel Rocks-e also impressed the public wits completely new, completely different and completely electric approach to urban mobility. Innovative light motor vehicle for two brings a breath of fresh air to its segment – with a style that is exceptional in every respect. And thus, the readers of auto motor und sport voted Opel Rocks-e “Best Design Novelty of 2022” in the “Mini Cars” category with an overwhelming majority.

And Opel’s large models added further trophies. Readers of AUTO BILD and COMPUTER BILD recently cast their votes and awarded the “Connected Car Award 2022” to the Crosscamp Flex, an electric campervan planned on the basis of the Opel Zafira-e Life. In addition, the best-selling battery-electric Opel Vivaro-e, winner of “International Van of the Year 2021” now also carries the title of “Irish Van of the Year 2022”. And the innovative Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN received the “40th KS Energy and Environment Prize” in Germany.

[1] AUTO BILD edition 45/2022 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2022, category for “Best car up to €50,000”.

[2] AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2020, category for “Small cars”.

[3] AUTO BILD edition 45/2021 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2021, category for “Best car under €25,000” incl. environmental bonus.

[4] German Compact Car of the Year” (compact class category, up to €30,000).

Opel Highlights 2022: All-New Opel Astra leads the way in Anniversary Year

• 160 year of Opel innovations for millions: Tradition-rich company celebrates birthday
• Start of a new era: Sixth generation Opel Astra arrives at dealerships
• 40 Years of Opel Corsa: Limited edition “Opel Corsa 40” presented
• GSe returns: Opel reveals dynamic and electrified “Grand Sport electric” sub-brand
• Electrifying performance: Successful season for Opel Corsa-e Rally and co.
• Innovative transport solution: First Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN in customer hands

2022 was an electrifying year for Opel in every respect: for 160 years, the brand with the ‘Blitz’ has been making innovations affordable for a wide audience. This was also the case in the anniversary year - first and foremost with the new Opel Astra, which celebrated its dealer premiere in the spring and has been delighting experts and customers alike ever since. Other bestsellers of the year are the Opel Mokka, the best-selling electric vehicle in its segment in autumn, and the Opel Corsa, which celebrated its 40th birthday this year. As the battery-electric Corsa-e Rally, it once again celebrated a successful campaign in the ADAC Opel e-Rally Cup, the first electric one-make cup worldwide. In the future, Opel will also offer an even more dynamic everyday driving experience with the models of the recently introduced GSe sub-brand. At the same time, Opel is consistently advancing innovations for sustainable mobility in its commercial vehicles as well: for example, the first Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN with hydrogen fuel cell drive are already in use with customers. Today, Opel already has 12 electrified models in its portfolio. These and even more highlights are shown in the electrifying video "Best of Opel 2022: Electrifying Champions" on the Opel Highlights 2022.

“2022 was an exceptional year for Opel,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl. “With the launch of all-new Opel  Astra, electrified for the first time, we are driving into a new era Our Corsa and Mokka models – which are also electric – show what makes real bestsellers in the small car and subcompact SUV segment. We are consistently pursued our electrification offensive – amongst others, with the hydrogen fuel cell van Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN. In this respect, 2022 was also a year in which we continued to drive forward the development towards becoming an all-electric brand in Europe.”

Success story: 160 years of Opel, 40 years of Opel Corsa, 30 years of Opel in Eisenach

In 2022, Opel celebrated a very special anniversary: 160 years ago, Adam Opel laid the foundation stone in Rüsselsheim for a company that developed from a producer of sewing machines to the world's largest bicycle manufacturer to an internationally important automotive brand that always makes technologies from higher vehicle classes affordable for a broad range of buyers. At the same time, 160 years of Opel history show that those responsible have always thought outside the proverbial box and surprised customers with extraordinary solutions.

In addition, one of the biggest bestsellers celebrated its 40th birthday: Opel Corsa revolutionised the small car class with its premiere in 1982 and still enjoys great popularity among customers today in what is now the sixth generation. Current Opel Corsa is one of the most popular small cars ever. The battery-electric Opel Corsa-e also won the "Golden Steering Wheel 2020" 1 and is successful in motorsport as a locally emission-free rally vehicle. Opel celebrated this anniversary by launching the limited edition “Opel Corsa 40” – with the newcomer combining modern technology with numerous nods to the first Corsa generation.

Elsewhere, Eisenach also celebrated an anniversary: Opel models have been rolling off the production line at the Thuringian plant, located in central Germany, for 30 years. Three decades that have shaped entire region and during which the ultra-modern location has renewed itself again and again, so that future-proof vehicles such as the Opel Grandland, of course also as a plug-in hybrid, are produced here today.

All-New Opel Astra: From the dealer premiere to the “Golden Steering Wheel 2022”

2022 was also marked by the new Opel Astra. In May, the sixth generation celebrated its dealer premiere. Completely new, equipped with innovative technologies such as the fully digital Pure Panel cockpit or the adaptive glare-free IntelliLux LED Pixel Light as well as with its clear, bold design including the new Opel Vizor brand face, visitors to the dealerships were able to test drive the newcomer for themselves - for the first time also as an electrified plug-in hybrid. The response was overwhelming, and the order books are brimming.

Readers and the expert jury of AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG agree that Opel is entering a new era with all-new Astra. They awarded the Astra and Astra Sports Tourer the "Golden Steering Wheel 2022" in autumn. Latest generation of the best-selling model beat off strong competition to win one of the most prestigious awards in the automotive industry as "Best Car up to €50,000"2.

At the same time, an "Auto Oscar" went to Rüsselsheim for the third time in a row. In 2020, Opel Corsa-e 1 won the coveted award, and last year the Opel Mokka-e 3 took top honours. Latter has become a bestseller with its design, technologies and suitability for everyday use. In October and November, it was best-selling all-electric car in B-SUV segment in Germany. In November, no less than 65 percent of all Opel Mokka customers opted for the battery-electric, locally emission-free variant.

Dynamic, inspiring and electrified: New GSe sub-brand

Also in autumn, Opel announced: "GSe" is returning - in a new, fresh guise. Where the abbreviation used to stand for "Grand Sport injection", it now becomes Opel's new sporty sub-brand and means "Grand Sport electric". Opel GSe models combine excellent driving dynamics with innovative electrification and will be at the top of the respective model series in the future. Plug-in hybrids Opel Grandland GSe (fuel consumption according to WLTP 4: 1.3 l/100 km, CO2 emission 31-29 g/km; both combined, weighted, preliminary values) as well as Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe (fuel consumption according to WLTP 4: 1.2-1.1 l/100 km, CO2 emission 26-25 g/km; both combined, preliminary values) will be available soon.

Opel electrifies motorsports: Impressive Rally record in 2022

Opel has also literally electrified international rallying in the 2022 season. Laurent Pellier and the Opel Corsa Rally4 dominated the Junior European Rally Championship (JERC), clinching the fifth Junior European title for Opel. At the same time, the ADAC Opel e-Rally Cup established itself as the first electric rally one-make cup worldwide and continued its upswing. In rally runs that were as demanding as they were varied, the teams fought for points and trophies in the Opel Corsa-e Rally. In this way, organisers showed how electric rally sport can inspire. Next year, the cup will enter its third season!

From Opel Rocks-e to Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN: E-offensive in full swing

Even with the smallest and largest models in the Opel portfolio, the manufacturer is pushing the pace in terms of electrification. Opel Rocks-e, for example, makes young people from the age of 155 in Germany mobile and brings a breath of fresh air to the light vehicle segment as an innovative electric vehicle for two. Elsewhere, the first customers have been behind the wheel of the Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN since this year. Pioneering hydrogen fuel cell transporter shows how versatile electric mobility can be in the commercial sector. It is the ideal solution for fleet customers who want to cover long distances without local emissions and need to refuel quickly. When fully fuelled, it can travel up to 400 kilometres (according to WLTP). Refuelling with hydrogen takes just three minutes.

All in all, Opel took full advantage of 2022, once again taking huge strides towards becoming a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028. This is exactly the path the company will continue to follow in the coming year – with models such as the first fully electric Opel Astra Electric and many other innovations.

[1] AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2020, category for “Small cars”.

[2] AUTO BILD edition 45/2022 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2022, category for “Best car up to €50,000”.

[3] AUTO BILD edition 45/2021 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2021, category for “Best car under €25,000” incl. environmental bonus.

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

[5] 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.

Adam Opel Founded His Company 160 Years Ago

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

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

Foundation in 1862: No easy start

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

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

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

1887: From sewing machines to bicycles

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

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

1899: Opel starts building automobiles

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

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

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.

Opel to become Purely Electric in record time

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

Opel is becoming a purely electric brand

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

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

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

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

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

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN 

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

Twelve electrified Opel models already available in 2022.

Opel Manta to return: New interpretation with electric drive

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

New Opel Manta-e

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

Production to start in 2025: Giga factory in Kaiserslautern

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

Brand with the Blitz: Pioneer of electric mobility

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

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

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

2016: Opel Ampera-e

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

Opel Corsa-e

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

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

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

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

New Opel Astra Hybrid

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

New Opel Movano-e van

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

Opel Combo-e Life

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

 Opel Zafira-e Life

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

Opel Vivaro-e HYDROGEN

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

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