Compact Van Pioneer: Opel Zafira Celebrated its World Premiere 25 Years Ago

• Revolutionary: Flex7 seat concept set new standards for interior variability in 1999
• Award winning: Opel Zafira receives prestigious “Golden Steering Wheel” several times
• Fuel cell pioneer: Locally emissions-free HydroGen vehicles based on Opel Zafira
• Modern, flexible “spacecraft”: Opel Zafira, Combo and soon new Frontera

Emotional, efficient and, above all, highly practical, with lots of flexible space for the whole family or for use as a VIP shuttle – these are the qualities that make Opel's people movers stand out. The current Opel Zafira can accommodate up to eight people, while the Combo can carry up to seven passengers. This portfolio will soon be complemented by the new Opel Frontera, which recently celebrated its world premiere in Istanbul and made its public debut in Rüsselsheim to mark the anniversary “125 years of automobile manufacturing at Opel”. Opel Frontera will also have space for up to seven people as an option.

However, these modern “spacecraft” from the brand with the Blitz would hardly be conceivable without a very special model that is also celebrating an anniversary this year – in 1999, exactly 25 years ago, the groundbreaking Opel Zafira was launched. With its innovative Flex7 seating system, it revolutionised the compact van segment and set new standards for interior variability, for which it subsequently received numerous awards. At the same time, it paved the way for today's hydrogen fuel cell drive of the Vivaro HYDROGEN and the future Movano HYDROGEN, by serving as the basis for several HydroGen test fleets. Opel Zafira was a pioneer in numerous respects and brought automotive solutions to the fore that are now taken for granted.

Practical, space-saving, easy: Pioneering Opel Zafira onboard seat system

In the spring of 1999, production of a model that would make history began: the first examples of the new Opel Zafira rolled off the production line. The 4.32 metre long, 1.74 metre wide and 1.68 metre high compact van was designed for lightweight construction. The first generation weighed just 1,390 kilogrammes when it was launched. Efficiency was as important to Opel then as it is today. With a drag coefficient of 0.33, the Zafira offered top aerodynamic performance in its class. With its clear design and long wheelbase, it combined elegance with functionality. The vehicle's low centre of gravity and the ultra-modern DSA (Dynamic SAfety) chassis ensured driving stability and the best possible safety.

But Opel Zafira made headlines 25 years ago for another reason: it was the first compact van to offer flexible space for up to seven people without the need to laboriously remove heavy seats. This was made possible by the intelligent, patented Flex7 seating system. With this unique mechanism, Opel set new standards for fully integrated onboard flexibility in the interior. In just around 15 seconds, the compact van could be transformed from a seven-seater into a two-seater with up to 1,700 litres of luggage volume. After unlocking and retracting the headrests, the seats in the third row could be easily folded up and stowed in appropriately shaped recesses in the vehicle floor, creating a completely flat loading area. The annoying removal from the vehicle and storage of temporarily unused seats were now a thing of the past.

Same applied to the second row: it could be folded up, pushed forward and secured behind the front seats to save space. The front passenger seat could also be folded into a horizontal position. This meant that objects up to three meters long could be loaded into the Zafira and four passengers could be accommodated at the same time.

Award-winning concept: Opel Zafira wins “Golden Steering Wheel” three times

Success was not long in coming. In the year of its launch, the trendsetter received the “Golden Steering Wheel” for the first time. This was just a taste of what was to come. With the second generation of the Zafira in 2005, Opel engineers optimised the handling of the second row. The seats could be folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio, so that adults could also sit comfortably on the outer individual seats. The reward for the effort: with the further developed Flex7 seating system, the Zafira B was set another benchmark for interior flexibility – and once again won the “Golden Steering Wheel”.

Opel Zafira was accompanied by a premium partner in Opel Zafira Tourer and immediately won another “Golden Steering Wheel”. In addition to the flexible interior, the newcomer impressed with lounge comfort, panorama glass sunroof and innovations such as radar-based speed control and Forward Collision Alert. With this serial success, Opel Zafira alone, in its various generations, has contributed three times to Opel’s award series at the prestigious “Golden Steering Wheel”.

Opel Zafira for all occasions: From top athlete to locally emissions-free pioneer

In 2001 – two years after the introduction of the first generation Zafira – Opel asked: “Can a sports car have seven seats, or put another way: Can a compact van have sporty driving characteristics?” The Zafira OPC gave a clear answer. It combined two ostensibly different segments: the practical variability of a compact van with the driving characteristics and performance of a sports car. In figures, this means a 141 kW (192 hp) 2.0-litre turbo engine, 250 Newton metres of torque, zero to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h. This made Opel Zafira OPC, which was launched in autumn 2001, the fastest van in Europe at the time.

Combining emotions with maximum efficiency – this is the motto that Opel followed then and still follows today. In the same year as the sporty Opel Zafira OPC, a completely different drivetrain also made its debut. In addition to fuel-efficient petrol and diesel engines, the compressed natural gas Opel Zafira 1.6 CNG complemented the portfolio as a particularly economical and resource-saving vehicle. It significantly reduced emissions compared to conventional petrol engines and retained full interior variability thanks to the practical packaging of all components. The gas tanks were installed under the floor and thanks to the “Monovalentplus” concept, the driver could simply switch to petrol operation when required.

Compact van is also a pioneer in locally emissions-free hydrogen fuel cell drive. In 2000, Opel’s fuel-cell development took to the streets with the Zafira-based HydroGen1. Its hydrogen fuel cell supplied electricity for a three-phase asynchronous motor giving 55 kW (75 hp) and 251 Newton metres of torque. A buffer battery covered power peaks. In 2001, a fleet of 20 HydroGen3 models was driven by test customers. Power was increased to 60 kW (82 hp), giving a top speed of 160 km/h. In the 2004 Fuel Cell Marathon, two HydroGen3 vehicles covered nearly 10,000 km across Europe, from Hammerfest in Norway to Lisbon in Portugal. At the wheel of a HydroGen3, F1 and Opel DTM driver Heinz-Harald Frentzen also won the 2005 Monte Carlo Rally for cars with alternative propulsion. The Zafira-based HydroGen vehicles paved the way for today's Opel Vivaro HYDROGEN van. Soon the range of locally emissions-free commercial vehicles that can be quickly refuelled with hydrogen will be even larger, with the new Opel Movano HYDROGEN.

Space for family, team and colleagues: Opel Zafira, Combo and new Frontera

While the first-generation Zafira from 1999 is considered a pioneer of interior flexibility with space for the whole family, Opel today offers a wide range of spacious vehicles for comfortable shuttle services as well as for relaxed vacation trips. These include the current Zafira with eight seats as well as the Combo with up to seven. And the next multi-seater will follow this year: with the recently presented new Frontera, Opel has for the first time a compact SUV that can carry up to seven people. Spacious and comfortable, focussed on the essentials and electrified in every variant, the Frontera with its characteristic, robust design is the ideal car for outdoor fans and families. The attractive newcomer, which will be available to order shortly, comes with many practical solutions, including an innovative smartphone station and a comfortable Intelli-Seat feature for the front seats. It is available either as a hybrid with 48-volt technology or all-electric. The new Opel Frontera thus offers resource-saving driving pleasure including locally emissions-free operation and continues the brand's electrification offensive.

Ready to Go: New Opel Zafira Electric Available to Order Now

• Ideal as shuttle or family van: Prices for new Opel Zafira Electric start at €47,550 (RRP including VAT in Germany)
• More design: For the first time with characteristic Opel Vizor brand fascia
• More flexibility: Two lengths, space for up to 9 people or 4,900 litres of luggage
• More safety: Top technologies and up to 18 assistance systems including high resolution 180-degree rear view camera
• More range: Up to 347 kilometres locally emissions-free driving range (WLTP 1)

New Opel Zafira is ready to go. Having already shown the first pictures of the next Zafira generation, Opel is now opening the order books for the spacious people-mover. The new, locally emissions-free Opel Zafira Electric is now available from €47,550 (all prices RRP including VAT in Germany). Each Zafira Electric has the unmistakable Opel Vizor brand fascia. Inside, the electric van offers plenty of space as a shuttle as well as an everyday and holiday vehicle for the extended family; depending on the variant, the new Zafira has up to 9 seats or a maximum of 4,900 litres of storage space. There are also numerous state-of-the-art assistance systems – up to 18 optionally – which increase both safety and comfort. Passengers are well entertained and connected even on longer journeys with the intuitively operated infotainment systems based on the cockpit platforms from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc 3.

“Opel Zafira Electric has made a name for itself as a modern and comfortable lounge on wheels. With up to 9 seats and plenty of space for passengers and luggage, it is the ideal locally emissions-free people-mover for shuttle services as well as for everyday use and leisure. With the start of orders for the next generation, the Zafira Electric adds the unmistakable Opel Vizor design and state-of-the-art technologies,” said Patrick Dinger, head of Opel Germany.

New Opel Zafira Electric: Comfortable, modern VIP shuttle for up to nine people

Latest Zafira generation is the first to feature the Opel Vizor brand face – like all new Opel models – and draws attention with the bold and pure design of the front fascia, which flows seamlessly into the LED headlights. The new Zafira Electric impresses not only with its design, but above all with its practical strengths. The battery-electric van is available in two lengths (4.98 metres and 5.33 metres), in two equipment variants (Edition and GS) and with numerous customisation options, while the XL version offers optional space for up to 9 people. The rear is particularly comfortable with four independent, face-to-face seats, which turn the new Zafira Electric into a VIP shuttle. Entry and exit to rows two and three is made easier by optional sensor-controlled, electric sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle (standard with GS equipment). The optionally available panorama glass roof creates an even airier atmosphere.

New Opel Zafira Electric in the 9-seat configuration has a loading volume of up to 1,500 litres; with 5 people, luggage with a volume of up to 3,000 litres can be transported, and with 2 or 3 people on board, 4,900 litres. Particularly practical in shuttle services from hotels and the like: similar to its predecessor, the new Zafira measures just 1.90 metres in height and is therefore fully suitable for underground parking.

Travel further: All-electric range up to 347 kilometres (WLTP 1) without charging stop

All-electric Zafira Electric is even better than before in terms of efficiency and range. It is available with either a 50 kWh or a 75 kWh battery. With the further developed 75 kWh battery on board, a range of up to 347 kilometres (WLTP1) is possible without stopping to charge – over 20 kilometres more than before. In order to be particularly energy-efficient on the road, the Zafira Electric (like its “little brother”, the Opel Combo Electric, which is also already available to order) has a regenerative braking system that can be set to three recuperation levels using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. The shuttle, family and travel all-rounder can be quickly charged with alternating current (AC) using the 11 kW onboard charger that comes as standard in Germany. At a 100 kW DC fast charging station, a stop of around 38 minutes for the 50 kWh battery and 45 minutes for the 75 kWh battery is necessary to charge to 80 per cent of the battery capacity.

New Opel Zafira Electric is powered by a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor; the maximum torque of 260 Newton meters is available at the first touch of the pedal, as is typical for electric vehicles, so that the locally emissions-free van can accelerate quickly to a top speed of 130 km/h. Depending on their preference, drivers can choose between the three driving modes Normal, Eco and Power.

Safety and comfort: Top infotainment, up to 18 modern assistance systems

Safety is also part of a relaxed journey. And this is a top priority for the new Opel Zafira Electric. The spacious people-mover offers up to 18 state-of-the-art driver assistance systems. Highlights include the adaptive cruise control with stop and go function as well as the high-resolution 180-degree rear view camera (standard on the GS). It makes turning and manoeuvring easier with additional sensors at the front and rear as well as flank guard and blind spot warning. Numerous other systems including Intelli-Grip with hill descent assist for traction on difficult surfaces such as snow, mud or sand complement the portfolio. For optimum vision in the dark, Full-LED headlights are standard in every variant.

Ergonomic cockpit also increases safety and comfort. The optional fully digital 10-inch digital driver information centre (standard on GS) provides all important information, including the navigation system and also offers data on energy consumption and charging. The new infotainment systems with 10-inch colour touchscreen use the integrated Snapdragon Cockpit and Auto Connectivity platforms from Qualcomm Technologies and enable, among other things, state-of-the-art graphics, multimedia and connectivity functions such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and 4G. In addition, important functions can be operated using the natural speech recognition “Hey Opel”. Compatible smartphones can be connected wirelessly to the Zafira's multimedia systems using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and can now also be charged inductively.

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

[3] Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

Covers all Bases: Opel’s Exciting Battery-Electric Portfolio

• Efficient, locally emissions-free and versatile: All-electric passenger cars from Opel Corsa Electric and Mokka Electric to Astra Electric and Zafira Electric
• Electric mobility for two: Opel Rocks Electric enables individual mobility from the age of 15 
• Without compromise: New generation of Opel Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric light commercial vehicles
• Clear electrification strategy: New Opel Frontera Electric to arrive later this year

Anyone looking for the right vehicle for everyday, locally emissions-free mobility need look no further than Opel’s comprehensive portfolio. German brand already offers 15 electrified models – many of them fully electric. Portfolio ranges from small Opel Rocks Electric to bestselling Corsa Electric and Mokka Electric to people carriers such as new Combo Electric and Zafira Electric. This means that Opel has everything from quadricycles to spacious passenger cars in its range – and what's more, the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is one of the first battery-electric estates on market.

In addition, business owners can also find right model for almost every purpose at Opel. New generation of Opel commercial vehicles is currently being launched with Opel Combo Cargo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric leading the way in terms of sustainable transportation solutions. They all have a class-leading range of state-of-art assistance systems and make no compromises in terms of loading volume and capacity in everyday working life.

And the brand with the Blitz will continue down the path of consistent electrification this year – the 125th anniversary of automobile production at Opel. Opel will offer at least one purely electric model in every carline by the end of the year. One of the newcomers will be the completely new Opel Frontera SUV, which will also be available as a battery-electric vehicles.

Two bestsellers, four versions: Opel Corsa Electric and Opel Mokka Electric

It's not for nothing that Opel Corsa has been Germany's most popular small car in recent years. It impresses with its characteristic design including Opel Vizor brand face, space for up to five people and technologies that make every journey more relaxing. In addition, it offers locally emissions-free driving pleasure in two versions: customers can choose from two battery-electric performance levels. With new 115 kW/156 hp drive and 51 kWh battery, up to 405 kilometres (according to WLTP 2) can be covered between charging stops. With the 100 kW/136 hp and 50 kWh battery variants, up to 357 kilometres (WLTP 2) are possible. And even when Corsa Electric needs recharging, only a short pitstop is necessary. At a 100 kW direct current fast charging station 80 percent of battery capacity can be recharged in around 30 minutes. And ordering the small car bestseller is now particularly worthwhile – Corsa Electric is currently available as a special edition “Yes” in dynamic GS look at a highly attractive price of just €29,990 (RRP including VAT in Germany).

With its bold and pure design, Opel Mokka Electric is an extraordinary eye-catcher. In addition to the proven electric drive with 100 kW/136 hp and 260 Newton meters of torque, it has also recently been introduced with 115 kW/156 hp and a new 54 kWh battery. This means that instead of up to 338 kilometres, Opel Mokka Electric drivers can now travel up to 407 kilometres in accordance with WLTP 2 with zero local emissions – an improvement of 20 percent! As with all fully electric Opel models, the battery is installed in the underbody. In this way, no space is lost in passenger or luggage compartment and Mokka Electric is firmly planted to road – for pure driving pleasure with responsibility!

Electric pioneers: Opel Astra Electric and new Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric

Llatest generation of compact class bestseller Opel Astra also ensures this. While many other electric cars are limited to 150 km/h or 160 km/h, the Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric can reach a top speed of 170 km/h – and it's pleasantly quiet and light-footed. Thanks to their compact packaging, both the five-door and the estate are real lightweights in their segment. This also helps ensure that passengers in the Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric can travel up to 418 kilometres and 413 kilometres (according to WLTP 2) respectively without stopping – and all this while enjoying the highest level of comfort, optionally with AGR-certified ergonomic active sports seats, and an intuitively operated Pure Panel cockpit including the latest infotainment technology and latest generation of glare-free IntelliLux LED Pixel Light.

As one of first fully electric estates on market, Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is a pioneer in its segment. Fact that it is a true all-rounder that combines sporty styling with locally emissions-free driving is also demonstrated by its loading qualities: luggage compartment of Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric, which is suitable for everyday use, work and travel, offers 516 litres of loading volume. When the seats are folded down, the capacity increases to up to 1,553 litres. Not only can it safely carry numerous suitcases and work utensils, but it can also take more voluminous items such as transport boxes. But no matter what the load, packing Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric is pleasantly easy thanks to the 60-centimetre low loading sill.

For families, leisure and VIP service: New Opel Combo Electric and Opel Zafira Electric

New Opel Combo Electric 3 and Opel Zafira Electric 2 are also perfect for leisure, vacation or as shuttle vehicles. All of this with the outstanding comfort and maximum safety: Two newcomers have up to 18 assistance systems that make every journey more relaxing. These include features such as the high-resolution 180-degree rear-view camera and new features such as Full LED headlights and even class-leading IntelliLux LED Matrix Light available for Combo.

New Opel Combo Electric, which will be available to order shortly, is the ideal family vehicle. Customers can choose from two vehicle lengths: 4.41-metre version offers space for up to 5 people, while the 4.76-metre version (Combo XL) can optionally accommodate up to seven passengers in three rows. If desired, the Combo Electric offers additional flexibility with three individual seats in the second row. Depending on the seating configuration, the newcomer offers between 775 (Combo) and 4,000 litres (Combo XL; up to the roof) of load volume. The unique access option to the cargo area via the separately opening window in the tailgate and the horizontally foldable passenger seat backrest are particularly practical when loading the vehicle. Soon, occupants will be able to travel up to 343 kilometres (according to WLTP 2) on a single charge – around 60 kilometres more than the outgoing model. This is made possible by the further development of the fully electric drive train and the highly efficient heat pump, which helps to conserve battery range in low temperatures.

New Zafira Electric is available with either a 50 kWh or 75 kWh battery. With further developed 75 kWh battery, a range of up to 350 kilometres (WLTP 2) is possible between charging stops. Large people carrier is available in two lengths (4.98 metres and 5.33 metres) and offers space for up to eight people. If desired, it can be particularly comfortable in the rear with four independent, vis-a-vis seats. Sensor-controlled, electric sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle make it easier to get in and out of rows two and three. New Opel Zafira also offers load volume ranging between 1,500 litres and 4,900 litres. Further practicality is provided by new Opel Zafira Electric’s height – at just 1.90 metres it is fully suitable for underground car parks.

Young, innovative, individual: Opel Rocks Electric

Opel Rocks Electric is the smallest battery-electric vehicle in Opel’s portfolio. Agile, locally emissions-free and, above all, accessible for young people over the age of 15 1,  Opel Rocks Electric is the ideal vehicle for affordable individual mobility. Smart entry-level electric quadricycle with space for two and a panoramic glass roof as standard offers a range of up to 75 kilometres which can be covered at up to 45 km/h. And with a turning circle of just 7.20 meters, the 2.41-metre short and just 1.39-metre wide (without exterior mirrors) Opel Rocks Electric can be easily handle tight corners or fit into small parking spaces. And electric quadricycle is an unconventional eye-catcher – also because two doors are designed identically. Passenger door swings forward as usual, while driver's door swings backwards in the opposite direction.

Ready for business: New Opel Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric

Elsewhere, Opel’s electric light commercial vehicle (LCV) line-up is equally impressive – as shown by by the recently launched new Opel Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric. All newcomers that can already be ordered have one thing in common: They bring a breath of fresh air to LCV segment with new styling – they have characteristic Opel Vizor brand face for first time. Highlights of further developed, modern-looking cockpits include new Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible infotainment systems, which can be used to wirelessly connect and charge the corresponding smartphones. Colour touchscreens up to 10 inches in size guarantee the best overview without distraction and easy operation. A wide range of state-of-art electronic helpers also ensure maximum safety. New Opel Movano Electric has up to 22 assistance systems on board, which enable level 2 automated driving for first time in long history of series.

All this is combined with usual light commercial vehicle qualities. Opel Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric continue to offer the full operational capability of their counterparts with conventional drives. Thanks to state-of-art battery technologies and improvements such as increased drive efficiency, all three models have class-leading locally emissions-free battery-electric ranges: new OpelCombo Electric can travel up to 346 kilometres between charging stops, Opel Vivaro Electric up to 350 kilometres and Opel Movano Electric with 200 kW/272 hp, 410 Newton meters of torque and 110 kWh battery even up to 420 kilometres according to WLTP 2.

In addition, three LCV models score with exemplary loading volumes as well as loading and towing capacities. As a panel van, new Opel Combo Electric offers up to 4.4 m3 of loading volume. Class-leading payloads of up to 780 kilogrammes and a trailer load of up to 750 kilogrammes are class-leading. Depending on the version, new Opel Vivaro Electric can load up to 6.6 m3 and shoulder more than 1.2 tons. And the largest of the commercial vehicle trio, Opel Movano Electric, boasts a cargo volume of 17 m3 which is enough for five Euro pallets.

Opel customers can already choose from a wide range of battery-electric, locally emissions-free models for leisure, family and work. At same time, German brand is consistently pushing forward the transition to electromobility in its anniversary year. New Opel Frontera and next generation Opel Grandland with fully electric variants will soon add to Opel’s extensive electric portfolio.

[1] AM-class driving licence in Germany. 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.

[2] Range values 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.

[3] Vehicle not available yet. All data on vehicles is preliminary.

[4] All prices RRP in Germany

For Family, Travel and VIP Services: New Opel Combo Electric and Opel Zafira Electric

• Unmistakable: Both people carriers with Opel Vizor brand face for the first time
• Electric increase: Opel Combo Electric now with up to 330 kilometres, Opel Zafira with up to 350 kilometres of locally emissions-free range (WLTP1)
• Safety first: Top technologies and 18 assistance systems including a high-resolution 180-degree rear-view camera and IntelliLux LED Matrix Light
• Well connected: Best-in-class connectivity with 10-inch colour screen and cockpit platform-based infotainment from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc2.
• Plenty of space: Opel Combo Electric with a load volume of up to 4,000 litres and even 4,900 litres for Opel Zafira Electric

They combine top technologies with comfort and electrically-driven freedom: The new Opel Combo Electric and Opel Zafira Electric are ideally suited for leisure, long-distance travel or as shuttle vehicles. Depending on the variant, the Combo offers space for up to seven people, the Zafira even comfortably accommodates up to nine occupants. In the battery-electric people carriers, drivers and passengers will be able to travel even further between charging stops, locally emissions-free; all while enjoying outstanding comfort and optimum safety. New editions of the two models each have up to 18 assistance systems that make every journey more relaxing. These include equipment such as 180-degree rear-view camera and new features such as full LED headlights and even IntelliLux LED Matrix Light with Opel Combo.

“Our new Opel Combo Electric and our new Opel Zafira Electric are the ideal passenger carriers for everyday family life as well as for comfortable shuttle services. With plenty of space and top technologies as well as an ultra-modern design, they show our approach to the future of mobility, a future that is electric. That's why the battery-electric variants now offer even more range than before. At Opel, this is family-friendly yet sustainable and sensible mobility,” said Patrick Dinger, head of Opel in Germany.

Two newcomers immediate make a statement with a redesigned front. For the first time, both vehicles proudly wear the bold and pure Opel Vizor, the German brand’s characteristic brand face. With the Opel Blitz in the centre, Vizor extends seamlessly into the LED headlights. And in the fully digital cockpit, the driver and front passenger can look at intuitive infotainment systems with 10-inch colour touchscreens based on the Snapdragon Cockpit platform from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc2. – wireless smartphone connection and inductive charging included.

New Opel Combo Electric: Maximum flexibility in a modern design

Opel Combo is the ideal family vehicle. The new model continues to offer the tried and tested virtues and increases driving and travelling pleasure with new technologies, connectivity solutions and comfort details. Customers can once again choose from two vehicle lengths: The 4.41-metre version (L1) offers space for up to five people, while the 4.76-metre version (L2) can optionally accommodate up to seven passengers in three rows. If desired, the Combo Electric offers additional flexibility with three individual seats in the second row. Passengers enjoy the best views with the panoramic roof with electrically activated sun protection and versatile overhead storage. In total, 27 storage options with a total capacity of up to 186 litres offer plenty of space for travel essentials or everyday items.

Whether planning a vacation or a large purchase, the new Combo Electric is the right companion. Depending on the seating configuration, the newcomer offers between 775 (L1) and 4,000 litres (L2; up to the roof) of load volume. Unique access option to the cargo area via the separately opening window in the tailgate and the horizontally foldable passenger seat backrest are particularly practical when loading the vehicle.

Increased range: Up to 330 kilometres on a single charge

Battery-electric Opel Combo Electric in particular offers travel-friendly and resource-saving mobility without compromises. On the one hand, thanks to the practical underfloor location of the 50 kWh battery, it has exemplary space in the passenger and luggage compartment. On the other hand, the new electric vehicle makes locally emissions-free travel even more pleasant and can travel up to 330 km (according to WLTP 1) on a single charge – around 50 kilometres more than the previous model. This is made possible by the further development of the fully electric drive train and the highly efficient heat pump, which helps to conserve battery range in low temperatures.

Powered by the electric motor with 100 kW/136 hp and 260 Newton metres of torque, the new Combo Electric can reach a top speed of 135 km/h. Depending on their personal preference, drivers can choose between the Eco, Normal and Power driving modes. To ensure particularly energy-efficient driving, the Combo Electric has a regenerative braking system that can be adjusted in three recuperation levels using paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. With the 11 kW on-board charger, the battery can be recharged to 80 per cent of its capacity in around 30 minutes at a 100 kW public charging station.

Safety first: 18 state-of-art assistance systems in new Opel Combo and Opel  Zafira

Safety is also part of a relaxed journey. And this is a top priority for both the new Opel Combo Electric and the new Opel Zafira Electric. For the first time in its history, the spacious Combo comes with the adaptive, glare-free IntelliLux LED Matrix light – class-leading. A total of 14 LED elements – seven on each side – ensure that the road is optimally illuminated in the dark and without glaring other road users. Opel Zafira also has full LED headlights that light up the night, providing the driver with the best visibility.

In total, new Opel Combo Electric and new Opel Zafira Electric each offer up to 18 state-of-the-art driver assistance systems. Highlights include Adaptive Cruise Control with stop & go function as well as the high-resolution 180-degree rear-view camera. IntelliGrip with hill descent control provides a firm grip on difficult surfaces such as snow, mud or sand. Sensors at the front and rear as well as flank guard and blind spot warning facilitate safe manoeuvring. Numerous additional systems such as Driver Attention Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert with Emergency Braking complete the portfolio.

Safety and comfort are further increased by the ergonomic cockpit, which has been redesigned in both the people carriers. If desired, customers can order the fully digital 10-inch driver information display, which delivers all important information (including from the navigation system) and, for the battery-electric variants, also provides information on energy consumption and charging. The new infotainment systems with 10-inch colour touchscreen use the integrated Snapdragon Cockpit platform from Qualcomm Technologies2 and enable, among other things, state-of-the-art graphics, multimedia and computer vision functions. In addition, important functions can be operated via the “Hey Opel” natural voice recognition. Compatible smartphones can be wirelessly connected to the vehicle's multimedia systems using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and charged inductively.

New Opel Zafira Electric:Comfortable, ultra-modern VIP shuttle for up to nine people

Anyone who wants to travel with a large family or needs a vehicle that is both flexible and comfortable to offer shuttle services will find what they are looking for in the new Opel Zafira Electric. The large people carrier is available in two lengths (4.98 metres and 5.33 metres) and offers space for up to nine people. If desired, it can be particularly comfortable in the rear with four independent, vis-a-vis seats. Sensor-controlled, electric sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle make it easier to get in and out of rows two and three. Optionally available panoramic glass roof creates an even more airy feeling of space and enables a clear view of the sky.

New Opel Zafira has a load volume of up to 1,500 litres in the configuration with nine seats. With five seats, up to 3,000 litres can be transported and 4,900 litres with two or three people on board. Further practicality is provided by the new Zafira Electric’s height – at just 1.90 metres it is fully suitable for underground car parks.

Travel further: Up to 350 kilometres on a single charge

In terms of efficiency and range new Opel Zafira Electric is even better than before. All-electric people carrier is available with either a 50 kWh or 75 kWh battery. With the further developed 75 kWh battery, a range of up to 350 kilometres (WLTP1) is possible between charging stops – over 20 kilometres more than before. To further increase energy-efficiency, the Zafira Electric has regenerative braking. The system can be adjusted to three recuperation levels using paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel. The shuttle and family all-rounder can be quickly charged with alternating current using the 11 kW onboard charger, which comes as standard in Germany. At a 100 kW DC fast charging station, the 50 kWh battery can be charged to around 80 per cent of capacity in around 38 minutes (45 minutes for the 75 kWh battery).

New Opel Zafira Electric is powered by a 100 kW/136 hp electric motor. 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.

With the new Opel Zafira Electric and the new Opel Combo Electric, families, shuttle services and anyone who needs a spacious, flexible and comfortable vehicle will be able to travel in an even more modern and efficient way. Opel will soon open the order books for the two large people carriers.

[1] Range values 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.