Where Function Meets Fun: Sharks in the Grandland

At first glance, the new Grandland is the very picture of refined practicality. Built on Opel’s bold design language and enhanced with cutting-edge technologies like the adaptive Intelli-Lux HD light system, Intelli-Seats, and the translucent Pixel Box centre console, the SUV ticks every box for comfort, innovation, and eco-consciousness.

But peer a little closer – open a tray, lift a lid, tilt your head at just the right angle – and you might spot something… fishy. Dozens of miniature shark silhouettes are scattered subtly throughout the Grandland’s cabin, tucked away where only the most eagle-eyed passengers will find them. The creatures don’t just add charm – they’re a testament to Opel’s meticulous attention to detail, blending function with a quiet wink of humour.

“The sharks have become iconic among the community,” says Karim Giordimaina, Opel’s Design Director. “They show the attention our designers pay to even the smallest detail… playful sharks are also proof of how we inspire enthusiasm and emotions with our vehicles.”

A Designer’s Whim That Sparked a Tradition

The story of Opel’s sharks began with a simple question from a child. In 2004, designer Dietmar Finger was sketching a structural panel for the Corsa D’s glove box when his son peered over his shoulder and asked: “Why don’t you just draw a shark?”

That offhand suggestion sparked what would become one of the brand’s most endearing Easter eggs. The design was pitched to then-Corsa Chief Designer Niels Loeb, who loved the idea. The first shark went into production – unseen by most but thrilling for those who found it.

The tradition caught on. Next, the Zafira featured three sharks courtesy of none other than Giordimaina, who was leading interior design at the time. The Opel ADAM followed, then successive generations of the Astra, and now, the new Grandland proudly continues the legacy – with a whole swarm of sharks hiding in clever nooks and crannies.

A Secret Game of Hide and Seek

What makes the shark hunt even more compelling is its secrecy. The location of each shark is a closely guarded secret, known only to the design team. Even Opel’s top management is kept in the dark, making each new model a mystery waiting to be solved.

It’s become something of a rite of passage – every interior chief designer ensures that at least one shark makes it into every new model. Sometimes, it’s a single fish. Other times, as with the Grandland, it’s an entire school.

This unique practice has cultivated a quiet but passionate subculture among Opel enthusiasts. Whether you’re a kid riding in the back seat or a curious adult exploring your new vehicle, the moment of discovery is pure delight.

The Sharks Swim On

The Grandland isn’t the end of the road for Opel’s hidden predators. The upcoming Opel Frontera will also host its own mini shark hunt, with more models to follow. As Opel continues to push boundaries in design, technology, and sustainability – from electrified drivetrains to recycled materials – its beloved sharks continue to embody the soul of the brand: clever, curious, and quietly iconic.

So next time you climb into an Opel, keep your eyes peeled. Because behind every sleek line and smart feature, there might just be a little shark waiting to surprise you.

Intelli-Seats: Ergonomic Excellence in the Grandland and Frontera

Opel’s commitment to comfort is exemplified by the newly developed Intelli-Seats, which come as standard in the new Opel Grandland and are also available in the all-new Frontera. Inspired by high-performance cycling saddles, these seats feature a unique central recess designed to alleviate pressure on the tailbone, making long journeys significantly more comfortable. This patented ergonomic feature, combined with electro-pneumatically adjustable lumbar support and an extendable thigh rest, ensures personalized comfort for drivers and passengers of all sizes.

Adding to the luxurious experience, Intelli-Seats include multi-level heating as standard in the award-winning Opel Grandland. Four-way head restraints further enhance safety by providing optimal support for the head and neck. Opel has also added a touch of practicality by incorporating convenient smartphone pockets on the back of the front seats.

Sustainable Innovation: Recycled Mono-Material Seat Covers

Opel’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond vehicle efficiency to include interior materials. The ergonomic active sports seats in the Astra and Astra Sports Tourer now feature covers made from ReNewKnit™, a high-quality mono-material fabric that offers the luxurious feel of suede while being 100% recycled and recyclable. Unlike traditional composite materials, ReNewKnit™ does not require separation before recycling, reducing waste and minimizing the vehicle’s overall carbon footprint.

This initiative aligns with Opel’s ‘Greenovation’ philosophy, ensuring that environmental responsibility is at the forefront of its design and manufacturing processes. By integrating sustainable materials without compromising on aesthetics or durability, Opel continues to lead the way in eco-conscious automotive solutions.

Premium Comfort: Intelli-Seat Pro and Nappa Leather Luxury

For those seeking the ultimate in seating comfort, Opel offers Nappa leather upholstery in both the Astra and Grandland models. The Astra’s ergonomic active sports seats deliver a high-performance feel, while the Grandland introduces the Intelli-Seat Pro, designed with adjustable side cushions for enhanced lateral support. The air cushions within the backrest adapt to the occupant’s preference, creating a truly personalized seating experience.

Both the Intelli-Seat Pro and the Astra’s premium seats include a host of high-end features to maximize comfort and relaxation:

• Ten-Way Electric Adjustability: Drivers and passengers can fine-tune seat height, length, backrest inclination, and cushion tilt for optimal posture and support.
• Memory Function: The driver’s seat can recall pre-set positions at the touch of a button, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
• Massage Function: The Grandland’s Intelli-Seat Pro offers five different massage programs with three intensity levels, ensuring a relaxing drive even on extended journeys.
• Heated and Ventilated Seats: Multi-level heating keeps passengers warm in winter, while three-stage seat ventilation provides cooling comfort during warmer months.

A Holistic Approach to Comfort and Well-Being

Beyond seat innovation, Opel ensures that every aspect of the driving experience contributes to relaxation and well-being. The Intelli-Air ‘Clean Cabin’ system in the Grandland maintains superior air quality, filtering out pollutants for a fresher cabin environment. When combined with Opel’s advanced seating technology, these features deliver an unparalleled level of comfort, making every journey smooth, enjoyable, and fatigue-free.

With a long-standing reputation for excellence in ergonomic design, Opel continues to redefine comfort and sustainability in modern motoring. Whether opting for the innovative Intelli-Seats, the sustainable ReNewKnit™ covers, or the luxurious Intelli-Seat Pro, drivers and passengers alike can expect a premium, health-conscious travel experience with Opel’s latest models.

The Women Perspective Panel: A Driving Force for Change

At Opel, women’s perspectives are not just acknowledged—they are actively integrated into the vehicle development process. The Women Perspective Panels, a long-standing initiative at Opel, bring together a diverse team of female employees whose collective insights help steer the design and functionality of new vehicles. The members of the panel come from various backgrounds, spanning different ages, body types, and professional roles within the company. Their diverse experiences enable Opel to create vehicles that cater to a wider range of needs, not only for women but for all drivers.

Nina Thiele, President of Women of Stellantis Germany, highlights the value of this diversity: “In the Women Perspective Panel, we bring together female colleagues reflecting many perspectives and life experiences. These are women of different ages and physiques as well as from a wide range of professions at Opel. This team is to provide impetus for the new Opel model to be developed based on their own personal experience.”

The WPP’s involvement is holistic, engaging throughout all stages of the development process. From workshops and benchmark analyses to test drives and target group feedback, panel members contribute their voices at each touchpoint, ensuring that Opel vehicles are both functional and intuitive.

Empowering Change: WPP’s Impact on the New Opel Grandland

The Opel Grandland, the brand’s top-of-the-line SUV, has benefited immensely from the Women Perspective Panel’s input. Early on, the panel was invited to assess competitor models, providing valuable feedback on their strengths and areas for improvement. These insights were crucial in shaping the future Grandland’s design and functionality.

A significant aspect of the WPP’s contribution to the Grandland’s development was its focus on ergonomics and storage. The panel delved deep into questions such as: “What do we really need in a car?” and “How can we optimise storage space to accommodate various body types?” These discussions led to the incorporation of key elements into the vehicle’s design, ensuring that the Grandland would meet the needs of all users, whether short or tall.

Furthermore, a specialised workshop on ergonomics addressed the challenges faced by drivers and passengers in terms of accessibility. The result: a more comfortable driving experience, particularly when it comes to reaching storage compartments and maintaining comfort on long journeys.

“Thanks to our input, we were able to bring many aspects to the new Grandland that are important not only for women, but also for all drivers,” Thiele proudly states. “This includes the pleasant feeling of space in all seats, the excellent steering wheel positioning, and the high-quality interior. The effective rear ventilation, including optional seat heating, also contributes to the feel-good ambience.”

Key Aspects Shaping the New Grandland

The WPP’s influence is evident throughout the Grandland’s design and functionality. Key features that were introduced or refined based on the panel’s feedback include:

• Interior Quality: High-quality materials and a clean, polished finish ensure a premium feel throughout the cabin.
• Visibility: Camera systems with cleaning functions improve all-round visibility, adding to both safety and convenience.
• Ergonomics: The Grandland is designed to accommodate individuals of varying heights and body types, making it comfortable for everyone.
• Storage: Practical, accessible storage solutions, particularly within the centre console and boot, optimise space for everyday use.
• Driving Characteristics: A smooth, responsive driving experience ensures a high level of comfort and safety, providing an enjoyable ride for all passengers.
• Light Signature: The illuminated Opel Blitz emblem, a signature of the brand, adds a stylish and modern touch.

Throughout the development process, the Women Perspective Panel was not a passive observer; members were actively engaged in test-driving prototypes, providing feedback and making sure that the Grandland’s features met their high standards.

A Success Story Built on Collaboration

The involvement of the Women Perspective Panel in the Opel Grandland’s creation has not only enhanced the vehicle’s design but also reinforced Opel’s commitment to diversity and collaboration. Since its debut, the new Grandland has garnered widespread acclaim, earning prestigious accolades like the ‘2024 Golden Steering Wheel.’

“The Women Perspective Panel and the new Grandland are perfect examples of how team spirit works at Opel,” Thiele notes. “We’ve demonstrated how a wide variety of perspectives can contribute to the success of new models—and this is something we strive to achieve every day.”

Opel’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality is embedded in the DNA of the brand. The Women Perspective Panel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diverse input in creating products that are not only functional but also reflective of the needs and desires of a broad spectrum of people. As the Grandland’s success shows, this inclusive approach leads to better vehicles—and a better driving experience—for everyone.

This International Women’s Day, Opel celebrates not just the achievements of women but also the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable future. Through initiatives like the Women Perspective Panel, the company continues to prove that diversity is not just a value but a driving force for innovation and success.

The Rise of Padel in South Africa
Originating in Mexico, Padel has rapidly gained popularity in South Africa since its introduction three years ago. With hundreds of courts now established across major cities, Opel has embraced this growing trend by sponsoring courts in Randpark (Johannesburg), Gateway (Durban), and Durbanville (Cape Town) since the beginning of the year. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Opel Grandland’s customer base, emphasizing innovation, activity, and style.

The Event: A Showcase of Skill and Competition
The Grandlands Slam brought together 40 players from each city, divided into four groups. Utilizing the Fast 6 format, the tournament saw intense competition culminating in quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals. Players showcased their skills and passion, reflecting the sport’s blend of agility and excitement.

“Padel is a fantastic sport that has captured people’s imagination because of the innovation behind it, the ease with which people can access and enjoy it, and the downright enjoyment of getting out, spending time with friends, competing, and getting fit,” says Opel SA Brand Head, Jateen Daya. “We like to think the Opel Grandland is equally innovative, enabling an active lifestyle, whether for fitness or social sake.”

The Opel Grandland: A Perfect Fit for Padel Enthusiasts
The Opel Grandland exemplifies elegance and sportiness, featuring intuitive controls and innovative technologies. Available in three models—Edition Base, GS Line, and the top-of-the-range Ultimate—the Grandland is powered by Opel’s 121kW 1.6T engine with automatic transmission. Its bold design, iconic Vizor, vibrant interior with Pure Panel display, and state-of-the-art IntelliLuxLED® Pixel Lights make it the ultimate enabler for Padel enthusiasts.

“There’s nothing typical about Padel, but then again, there’s nothing typical about the Opel Grandland with its bold new design and innovative features. It’s a perfect synergy of agility and performance from the Padel court to the open road,” adds Daya.

A Successful Event with Future Prospects
The Grandlands Slam not only provided an exhilarating experience for the players but also introduced a new cohort of fans to Opel’s impressive vehicle range, including the Corsa, Mokka, Zafira Life, and, of course, the Grandland. With nearly 100 participants competing, the event was a resounding success.

“This was a massive success for everyone involved, from the players to the Opel staff on the day. South Africa can look forward to more Padel events like this,” says Daya.

The Opel Grandlands Slam was a celebration of innovation, athleticism, and style, reflecting the values of both Padel and the Opel Grandland. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, Opel’s commitment to supporting active lifestyles and promoting its innovative range of vehicles ensures a bright future for both Padel enthusiasts and automotive fans alike.

Celebrating a Legacy of Innovation

“This year marks 125 years of automobile production at Opel,” stated CEO Florian Huettl. “Throughout our history, we’ve continually advanced, providing our customers with innovative, practical, and accessible mobility solutions. The all-new Opel Frontera is a testament to this legacy – a highly flexible, spacious, and electrified SUV designed to captivate new customer segments.”

Spacious and Versatile: Now a Seven-Seater

One of the standout features of the new Opel Frontera is its spacious interior, designed to accommodate not just five passengers but also available in a seven-seater configuration. This makes it an ideal choice for families, teams, or groups of friends looking for a comfortable and versatile vehicle.

Robust Design and Practical Features

The new Frontera’s bold design is immediately noticeable, featuring the new Opel Blitz emblem prominently on the Opel Vizor brand fascia. Its robust character is further emphasized by prominent wheel arches, sills, and an eye-catching C-pillar. Inside, the modern, minimalist design includes a new steering wheel and two 10-inch widescreens. Practical features such as an innovative smartphone station are standard across all variants.

Travel-Ready Comfort and Storage

Designed with journeys in mind, the Frontera offers new Intelli-Seats with a unique slot in the middle to relieve pressure on the tailbone for the driver and front passenger. The SUV boasts over 450 litres of luggage space, expandable to 1,600 litres with seats folded down. For outdoor enthusiasts, optional roof rails and a specially designed roof tent with a ladder are available, supporting up to 240 kilograms on the roof.

Engine Options and Trims: Simplified Choices

Opel simplifies the new Frontera’s offering with two drivetrain options and two trims. Customers can choose between a hybrid with 48-volt technology or a fully electric version. The Frontera Hybrid features a 1.2-litre gasoline turbo engine (74 kW/100 hp) paired with a 21 kW (28 hp) electric motor and a six-speed dual clutch transmission, ensuring lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. An additional 1.2 turbo engine with 100 kW (136 hp) is also available. The Frontera Electric offers a range of over 300 kilometres (WLTP2), with a long-range variant capable of around 400 kilometres (WLTP1).

Customizable and Accessible

The new Frontera is available in two trims: the base Frontera and the Frontera GS. Even the base model comes well-equipped, while the GS variant includes advanced systems like multimedia infotainment with a 10-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a rear-view camera. Two optional packages allow further customization.

Innovative Purchasing Experience

Opel is also revolutionizing the purchasing process with the new Frontera. It will be the first Opel model available for digital order through an optimized “one-scroll experience,” allowing customers to purchase the vehicle entirely online or through their regional dealer.

With its blend of innovation, spaciousness, and versatile features, the new Opel Frontera is set to redefine the compact SUV market.

Designed, engineered, and manufactured in Germany, the Grandland stands out with its cutting-edge BEV-native structure, derived from the Stellantis STLA Medium platform. This foundation supports a robust 98 kWh flat battery package, propelling the Grandland Electric to achieve an impressive range of up to 700 kilometers per charge under the WLTP1 standards.

A highlight of this new model is the Intelli-Lux Pixel Matrix HD lighting system, which utilizes over 50,000 elements for unmatched light precision and distribution, enhancing safety and visibility on the road.

The interior of the Grandland mirrors its innovative exterior with sustainable materials, including recycled PET fabrics, and offers a multitude of storage solutions amounting to over 35 liters. Notably, the semi-transparent Pixel Box adds a modern twist to the cabin’s aesthetic while maintaining functionality.

Opel’s CEO, Florian Huettl, emphasized the significance of the Grandland in Opel’s lineup: “The Grandland represents a pivotal point for Opel, as it is the final model to be offered with an electric option, solidifying our commitment to electrification. Constructed in our Rüsselsheim and Eisenach plants, this model not only underscores our innovative capabilities but also strengthens our position in the competitive C-SUV segment.”

The Grandland’s advanced platform enhances its electric range, promising up to 700 km on a single charge, thanks to new architectural features like an efficient electric motor and a heat pump. Recharging is swift, with the battery reaching 80% capacity in just about 26 minutes at a fast-charging station.

The SUV’s design exudes confidence and grandeur, augmented by additional length, height, and width compared to its predecessor, and is further enriched by features such as the 3D Vizor combined with the Edge Light Technology and illuminated Opel Blitz. The Grandland also introduces the new Intelli-Lux Pixel Matrix HD system and welcomes owners with advanced projection animations.

Inside, the Grandland boasts a spacious and engaging environment with a 16-inch central display, ergonomic AGR-certified seats featuring new comfort technologies, and innovative storage options like the Pixel Box. The interior design promotes a seamless and intuitive user experience while fostering a sense of openness and comfort.

In addition to electric models, the Grandland also offers hybrid options, ensuring a comprehensive range of drivetrains to suit various preferences. The integration of frequency selective damping technology in the suspension system guarantees a dynamic and comfortable ride, true to Opel’s DNA.

This new model is equipped with an extensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, enhancing safety and driving ease, further demonstrating Opel’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction in the evolving automotive landscape.

Florian Huettl, Opel’s CEO, expressed confidence that the Frontera, with its robust design, ample space, smart features, and efficient powertrains, is poised to captivate a broad spectrum of consumers looking for distinction. He emphasized the vehicle’s seamless fit for both urban and suburban settings, alongside offering an enriching recharging experience.

The Frontera makes a striking first impression with its formidable interpretation of Opel’s design ethos, characterized by boldness and purity. Its commanding front profile and distinctive proportions encapsulate a spacious and functional cabin. A highlight of the design is the debut of the new Opel “Blitz” emblem, adorning the Opel Vizor, which integrates the Eco LED headlights and emblem in a seamless fashion. This design element is complemented by a trapezoidal air intake, reinforcing the vehicle’s robust stance.

Inside, the Frontera’s cabin blends innovative design with practicality. The interior features wide horizontal panels that enhance the sense of space, alongside the digital Pure Panel cockpit and a multimedia infotainment system for a cutting-edge and user-friendly experience. An optional smartphone station transforms the user’s mobile device into an infotainment hub, while the Intelli-Seat innovation offers unmatched comfort, especially for long drives.

The Frontera doesn’t skimp on convenience, offering solutions like a cooled wireless charger, multiple USB ports, and flexible storage options for large devices and daily essentials. The vehicle also impresses with its cargo space, offering up to 1,600 litres with the back seats folded down, and additional versatility with optional functional roof rails.

Engineered for sustainable and active lifestyles, the new Frontera provides a choice between electric and hybrid drivetrains without compromising on driving pleasure, courtesy of a chassis optimized for performance and Opel’s signature driving dynamics.

With its bold design, smart features, and a choice between electric and hybrid models, the new Opel Frontera is a testament to the brand’s commitment to electrification and its dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its customers.

The Valentine’s Day motif as well as the corresponding social media video play on the successful “Yes, of Corsa” launch campaign, which Opel developed together with its creative agency Jung von Matt and published in autumn 2023 – with catchy questions and a soundtrack and sequences in cinema style.

Emotions guaranteed thanks to character, comfort and top technologies

The appearance of the new Corsa fits is fully in line with this: pure, bold, with character. It proudly bears the unmistakable Opel brand face, the Opel Vizor, and offers an extraordinary variety of drive alternatives. It ranges from two battery-electric power levels to highly efficient combustion engines to hybrids with 48-volt technology that will soon be available.

At the same time, the Corsa continues Opel’s long-standing tradition of making state-of-the-art technologies and features available to a wide range of customers. These include the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux LED® matrix light with a total of 14 individually controllable LED elements as well as a whole range of modern driver assistance systems, the fully digital cockpit with the latest generation of infotainment and comfortable seats with massage function.

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

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

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

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

Internationalisation strategy working: 62 percent increase outside of Europe

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

Considerable light commercial vehicle growth: Sales up by 26 percent

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

Strong growth in the C-segment: Astra and Grandland sales up by 57 percent

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

Corsa and Mokka continue to be successful across Europe

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

Opel CEO Florian Huettl: “The name ‘Frontera’ is ideally suited to our new exciting SUV model. It will have a confident character and be positioned right in the core of the market.”

The new Opel Frontera will come with a high level of space and versatility and thus appeal to customers with an active lifestyle and families alike. The newcomer will also continue Opel’s long-standing tradition of bringing affordable mobility to a wide range of customers by being offered at an attractive price.

The arrival of the battery-electric variant of the new Frontera, along with the launch of the all-electric version of the next generation Grandland also scheduled for this year, will mark an important milestone in the Rüsselsheim brand’s transition to becoming a fully electric brand. Opel will then offer at least one battery-electric variant in each carline.

The wide range of battery-electric Opel models today already extends from the Rocks Electric quadricycle, the Corsa Electric, the Mokka Electric, the Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric, to the new Combo Electric and Zafira Electric people carriers. In addition, battery-electric versions of the entire commercial vehicle portfolio are already available today – including the new Combo Electric, the new Vivaro Electric and the new Movano Electric.

Opel will reveal the first images of the new Frontera along with more detailed information on the newcomer in the upcoming weeks.

Since then, more than 75 million Opel vehicles have left the production plants all over Europe. One of the current bestsellers comes from Rüsselsheim: the latest generation of the Opel Astra. As Opel marks the 125th anniversary of automobile production and sets course for the future, the innovative compact class model rolls off the assembly line today with advanced technologies and electrified, locally emissions-free drivetrains.

Opel CEO, Florian Huettl: “Like Opel 125 years ago, we are now at the beginning of a new era. Back then, the company became a pioneer by entering the automobile age. Nowadays, Opel is an electric pioneer, offering locally emissions-free, individual mobility that is also suitable for everyday use. Such as the new Astra Sports Tourer Electric. Like the first Opel automobile, this car also comes from Rüsselsheim. We are proud of this heritage and will therefore be celebrating the anniversary of ‘125 years of automobile production at Opel under the banner of electromobility”.

Late 1890s: From sewing machines and bicycles to automobiles

Opel’s success story began in 1862. Adam Opel built his first sewing machine in Rüsselsheim, thereby laying the foundation for the company. Opel soon developed into one of the largest sewing machine manufacturers in Germany and exported all over Europe. With the bicycle, Opel gained its next successful foothold. The first penny-farthing was built in Rüsselsheim in 1886, making Opel one of the first bicycle makers in Germany. In the 1920s – in parallel to the car business – Opel became the world’s largest bicycle manufacturer, a success for which the sons of the now deceased company founder were responsible.

They are also the ones who made the fundamental change to motorised transportation for the Opel company. Due to a decline in the bicycle business in the 1890s, the Opel brothers were searching for new products and came across the automobile. Fritz and Wilhelm Opel visited the first German Motor Show in Berlin in 1897 and met Friedrich Lutzmann there. The master locksmith had been producing motor cars since 1894 and therefore had the experience the Opel brothers were looking for. He invited the Opel brothers to his factory in Dessau where Fritz and Wilhelm immediately recognised the potential for automobile manufacturing that Lutzmann offered them.

While all involved initially thought of a cooperation, the Opel brothers then made Lutzmann an attractive offer for the entire production, including land, building and workshop equipment. On January 21, 1899, Wilhelm Opel and Friedrich Lutzmann signed the contract for a purchase price of 116,887 marks and the factory became the property of Opel.

The whole company, including employees and machinery, was relocated from Dessau to the Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim. Lutzmann himself was appointed sales manager of the Adam Opel Motorfahrzeug-Fabrik.

The takeover of the production and patents meant that Opel immediately gained years of experience in building motor vehicles. From then on, Lutzmann and selected employees brought in from Opel’s bicycle production manufactured cars under the name Opel in a specially erected building. The first advertisements for the new models appeared as early as spring 1899 and announced, “Opel motorcars are the best”.

Pioneering achievement from Rüsselsheim: The new Astra Sports Tourer Electric

While 125 years ago the Opel-Patentmotorwagen System Lutzmann was a pioneering achievement as the first automobile from Rüsselsheim, today this is the latest generation of the bestseller Opel Astra, which is designed, developed and manufactured there. The especially dynamic electrified top models Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe (fuel consumption according to WLTP[1]: 1.3 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 30-29 g/km) roll off the assembly line in Rüsselsheim, along with the new Astra Sports Tourer Electric. The all-electric compact class estate, one of the first of its kind, made its world premiere at last year’s IAA Mobility, impressing all with its design, comfort and spaciousness, and especially its performance. The electric motor delivers 115 kW/156 hp and a powerful 270 Newton meters of maximum torque. And while many other electric cars are limited to 150 km/h or 160 km/h, the new Astra Sports Tourer Electric can reach a top speed of 170 km/h. A driving range of up to 413 km (WLTP[2]) is possible on a single charge of the battery. State-of-the-art technologies, such as the class-leading Intelli-Lux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements, and the Intelli-Drive 2.0 system with semi-automatic lane change and intelligent speed adaptation, are also available.

125 years after the start of automobile production in Rüsselsheim, Opel and its customers are driving into the future locally emissions-free, with vehicles that are fun to drive and suitable for everyday use. 2024 will be marked by the major anniversary and Opel’s continued journey towards electrification, accompanied by celebrations as well as innovative new models. More information about the anniversary year will follow soon.

The design highlights the new Citroën brand identity that was first revealed in 2022. The C3 Rally2 now proudly displays the oval logo on its sides and roof, and the designers have also played on the clean lines of the famous two chevrons to make them stand out from their frame; giving the car a dynamic look whichever angle it is viewed from. The red colour scheme meanwhile confirms the sporting DNA of Citroën Racings and its illustrious history in rallying.

This livery is the work of the Citroën design team, in close association with Citroën Racing, to assert the brand’s new identity with a dynamic and high-impact graphic that leaves space for all #C3Rally2Family members to express their personalities. The two-tone design will make its debut at Rally Monte-Carlo in January (from January 25_28) on the official Citroën Racing cars, crewed by Yohan Rossel/Arnaud Dunand and Nikolay Gryazin/Konstantin Aleksandrov.

The oval logo plays a central role, especially on the roof where the chevrons point forward propelling the C3 Rally2 toward performance and speed. Larger versions extend from the side windows to the rear wheels to display Citroën’s brand identity. Two closely spaced white stripes symbolising the chevrons are also repeated on all four sides. At the front, they are placed horizontally at the bottom of the car, as if visually pressing it into the ground. On the sides, they are at a more familiar diagonal, meeting across the rear of the roof.

These cues further help to accentuate the contrasting two-tone effect, separating the red front of the car from the black rear. At the back, two more sloping stripes ensure that the C3 Rally2 stands out even from a distance.

The use of the André Red colour (named after company founder André Citroën) is a reference to the brand’s history in the World Rally Championship. Today, the C3 Rally2 is at the forefront of the highly competitive Rally2 category, having achieved numerous championship titles and rally wins across the globe in 2023. With this new livery, Citroën Racing technical teams continue to modernise the C3 Rally2 and constantly improve performance to perpetuate its legendary history. See this design shine in rallies around the world.

THEY SAID…

François Wales, Stellantis Motorsport Customer Racing director:

“Building on our 2023 season, the C3 Rally2 Family and Citroën Racing teams attack 2024 with anticipation and boldness! We are proud of the new design of the C3 Rally2 and of the close collaboration between the Citroën Design and Citroën Racing teams. We’re showing our colors and our ambitions high for this 2024 season, in WRC2 and in the continental and national championships, and we’re confident that the tireless work of the Citroën Racing technical teams will pay off!”

Pierre Leclercq, Head of Citroën Design:

‘’Showcasing the New Citroën Brand identity was at the core of the design brief for the new C3 Rally2 livery.

Our designers have addressed this challenge, creating an impactful and sober graphism, playing with the pure lines of the chevrons. The extended two-tone red and black of the official Citroën Racing version highlights this new design.”