Slender silhouette, high-contrast graphics, impressive dimensions and technologies for future models – that’s what the Opel concept car is. With its appearance, the visionary concept car marks the beginning of a new era for the German brand. The Opel concept car will celebrate its premiere from September 5 to 10 at the IAA Mobility 2023 exhibition in Munich.
At the same time, it adds a new chapter to the long history of studies from Rüsselsheim that first appeared in the IAA. It follows such exciting concepts as the Experimental GT introduced in 1965, the CD concept from 1969 or the Monza concept from 2013, which celebrates its tenth anniversary.
Breathtaking: Opel experimental GT
The history of Opel concept cars begins at the IAA in 1965. At that time, Opel was the first European brand to show its innovative strength through a study it built entirely in-house. Name: Opel Concept GT. With its tapering “Coca-Cola” design, flat, tapering fascia, bulging fenders, round tail lights and distinctive pop-up headlights at the front, the Experimental GT wins the public’s hearts right from the start.
So great was the enthusiasm that just three years later, Opel launched the Opel GT in series.
Eye-catching: the Opel CD Concept
Thanks to the huge success of the Experimental GT, Opel designers and engineers set out to design the next attractive Rüsselsheim show car. In 1969, the brand introduced the Opel CD (Coupe Diplomat), a two-seater luxury coupe based on the Opel Diplomat.
With its fiberglass body, partially removable glass dome instead of doors, 15-inch alloy wheels, adjustable steering column, freely hanging instrument panel, adjustable pedals and center console with dummy phone, the Opel CD makes visions of the future tangible.
Corsa-based study: Opel Junior
Let’s go back to 1983: 14 years after the release of the Opel CD, the manufacturer chose a completely different approach with the introduction of the Opel Junior. The focus is not on futuristic design, but rather the study must match sustainable mobility with reduced consumption. The drag coefficient is 0.31, which, together with the vehicle’s low curb weight of 650 kg, enables an consumption of just 4.0 liters per 100 kilometres.
Based on the Corsa A, the Junior offers space for four and clever details such as seat covers that double as a sleeping bag. Parts of the dashboard such as the stereo or clock can be removed and used outside the vehicle.
Again modified Corsa: Opel Scamp
And 10 years later, the best-selling Corsa small car once again forms the basis for the 1993 Opel Scamp study. Thanks to its high ground clearance, the Scamp can be considered the pioneer of the modern SUV. The modular vehicle seats up to four people.
The practical retractable roof, which can be fully opened, extends over the rear seats and the load compartment. The all-wheel drive approach is also emphasized by special devices in the trunk, which allow two bicycles or other sports equipment to be transported safely.
Pioneering: the Opel Monza concept with technology and design features
At the IAA 2013, Opel is showing a concept that opens up yet another exciting glimpse into the future. With LED projections and car-to-car and car-to-car communication, the Opel Monza concept car offers imaginative technologies in terms of infotainment and connectivity.
In addition, the Monza concept car builds a bridge towards the increasing electrification of cars. Its modular architecture allows the integration of different driving alternatives, from plug-in hybrids to hydrogen fuel cells and conventional combustion engines. The IAA is presented as an electric vehicle with a monovalent CNG range extender.
The future: Opel Pilot
At this year’s IAA Mobility Show in September 2023, the Opel concept car makes a clear statement: As the smallest concept car from Rüsselsheim, it offers a forward-looking look at upcoming models, technologies, futuristic design and the future of the Opel brand. All this also underscores the attractive details of the study.
The new glowing Opel lightning bolt in the center of the Opel compass at the front as well as the distinctive Opel lettering at the rear, the tapering profile of the all-electric SUV together with more sophisticated aerodynamic solutions as well as the clever use of space and integration into the vehicle are just a few examples that the brand promises. Opel brand ushers in a new era – continuing the tradition of Opel’s pioneering studies at the IAA.
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