Last week, General Motors announced that it will invest 1.9 billion euros ($2.57 billion USD) towards the restructuring of Opel, more than tripling its previous pledge of 600 million euros. Why? Well, because Opel is to GM of Europe what Chevrolet is to GM of Detroit.

According to a report by the Free Press, Opel is GM’s No.1 brand in the European market with 1.2 million sales last year. That makes Opel the second-biggest brand worldwide for GM by a wide margin. Its sales exceed Buick, Cadillac and GMC’s combined U.S. sales by more than 2 1/2 to last year.

While before Opel and Saturn seemed to be counterparts, Opel now seems to influence Chevrolet vehicles and even some other core GM brands. Opel engineering underpins cars like the Chevrolet Malibu, Cruze, and the Volt. It is also setting the pace for Buick with the new LaCrosse sedan that uses an Opel-engineered platform and the upcoming Regal, which is basically a rebadged version of the award-winning Insignia.

The increased investment from GM means Opel will be able to operate through the year. It previously said it had enough liquidity to run in to the second quarter.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Free Press

General Motors announced yesterday that it will invest 1.9 billion euros ($2.57 billion USD) towards the restructuring of Opel/Vauxhall, more than tripling its previous pledge of 600 million euros.

“GM’s €1.9 billion commitment is the right course of action for Opel/Vauxhall and should clearly signal our determination to fix our business,” said Nick Reilly. “Our call for the additional funding was approved by GM’s senior management and supported by the GM Board of Directors. Meanwhile, we have shared this decision with the European Commission as well as the national and state governments involved. We hope that our strong commitment will be well received as a major milestone in our ongoing discussions about government guarantees to cover the remaining gap.”

The increased investment from GM means Opel will be able to keep its doors open through the year. It previously said it had enough liquidity to operate in to the second quarter. The move could also help Opel’s restructuring win state aid from European governments.

Under its viability plan, Opel/Vauxhall had estimated funding requirements of €3.3 billion. However, an additional €415 million had been requested by the respective European governments to offset the potential impact of adverse market developments.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Last month, after announcing that it will officially purchase Saab from General Motors, Spyker release a short press release detailing what we can expect from the Swedish duo – in terms of products. Besides the 2010 Saab 9-5 and the upcoming 9-4X, Spyker execs said that they are considering a small model, known to many as the Saab 9-1.

According to AutoCar, Spyker CEO Victor Miller is working really fast and hard to get a Saab compact completed in hopes to rival Audi’s new A1 and Mini’s Cooper.

Nonetheless, the new baby Saab is still rumored to be three years away and is likely to be produced with a major multinational partner. While Muller declines to confirm the partner, many sources say that the likely contender is Opel, given the strong relationship between the two over Saab’s other products.

Click here to learn more about Saab’s future products.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

Remember that Opel concept teaser we showed you last week? Well, here is what the whole thing looks like. Known as the Flextreme GT/E Concept, the study continues GM’s extended-range electric vehicle technology that is currently found in the Chevrolet Volt and the Opel Ampera. The point of the Flextreme GT/E is to show the versatility of the E-REV technology being applied to a larger, mid-size vehicle.

Known by Opel as a 5-door-coupe, this 4-seater concept is powered by a 160-hp electric drive unit mated to a 71-hp 1.4L 4-cylinder gasoline engine. Despite having a top speed of more than 124 mph and a 0-62 mph time of less than 9 seconds, the Flextreme GT/E is expected to provide ‘green performance’ that is similar to that of the Ampera. On a full charge of its lithium-ion batteries, which takes 3 hours, the Flextreme GT/E can provide a driving range of 37 miles. With the onboard engine in the mix, the Flextreme GT/E provides a total range of more than 311 miles while averaging a fuel-economy estimated at 147 mpg.

“The Flextreme GT/E concept shows the shape of things to come from Opel,” says Frank Weber, Vice President, Corporate and Product Planning. “Bold, expressive and highly efficient, it represents the product strategy we will apply to all our future vehicles, large and small, across all market segments.”

The Opel Flextreme GT/E will debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

Hit the jump for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept:

Press Release:

The Shape of Things to Come: Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept

Rüsselsheim. Opel will unveil its Flextreme GT/E concept car at the 80th Geneva Motor Show (March 4 – 14), that will boost the company’s credentials as a leader in green technologies, offering expressive design with efficient environmental performance – and engineered with German precision.

In Opel’s strategy for achieving more independence from fossil fuels, electricity plays a key role. The 4.7-meter long Flextreme GT/E concept illustrates how extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology can be plugged into large or mid-size vehicles, as well as compact cars such as the upcoming Ampera.

Opel calls this strategy e-mobility unlimited: adapting the highly efficient E-REV drive system – which removes the limitations of battery-only power – to vehicles across all market segments. To enjoy zero CO2 driving emissions Opel-style, the Flextreme GT/E concept shows that size doesn’t matter.

The purposeful design also enables the Flextreme GT/E to achieve a projected drag co-efficient of just 0.22, which helps it reach a 200 km/h-plus top speed as well as conserve energy and extend its driving range. Stand-out visual features include a low and wide stance, wing-shaped lights front and rear, a distinctive nose and grille, floating C-pillars and muscular, sculptured bodywork.

“The Flextreme GT/E concept shows the shape of things to come from Opel,” says Frank Weber, Vice President, Corporate and Product Planning. “Bold, expressive and highly efficient, it represents the product strategy we will apply to all our future vehicles, large and small, across all market segments.”

Exterior design: expressing efficiency with emotion

The low, coupé-like proportions of the Flextreme GT/E explore the potential for evolving Opel’s new design language – sculptural artistry meets German precision – within an envelope optimized for aerodynamic efficiency.

The clean, frontal styling features a low hood line and an extended nose section, which is clasped by wing-shaped, signature LED headlamps. These are deeply carved into the front fenders and across the hood line. The new trapezoidal grille execution is slim but bold. The prominent wing-shaped chrome bar carries a large Opel emblem, which doubles as a socket for charging the Flextreme GT/E’s battery pack.

The upper section of the grille is used to admit cooling air, the lower portion being covered by a translucent panel. The absence of additional air intakes allows a low frontal area for aerodynamic efficiency and also enables the Flextreme GT/E to meet future pedestrian protection requirements.

The sculpted hood, with an Opel signature central crease line, features narrow longitudinal vents on either side to draw air out of the engine compartment. The muscular fenders and wheel-arches sweep back into the side-body.

In profile, the Flextreme GT/E is distinguished by innovative, stubbed C-pillars. This floating design allows the glasshouse to be extended rearwards under the arching roofline, emphasizing the flowing lines of the side body. The car’s dynamic character is further underlined by a fresh expression of Opel’s signature blade motif, now a swooping swage line from the base of the C-pillar into the lower front fender.

Access to the cabin is enhanced by the adoption of rear-hinged rear doors, an evolution of the Opel FlexDoors concept from the new generation Meriva monocab. To preserve the clean exterior looks, all door handles are replaced by light sensors. These trigger the doors open when covered by the driver’s or passenger’s hand. To reduce air turbulence, exterior front door mirrors are also absent, replaced by small camera pods in the base of the A-pillars.

At the rear, a strong shoulder line embraces sculpted wheel-arches that further emphasize the Flextreme GT/E’s wide, ground-hugging stance. The coupé look is completed by a steeply raked tailgate, carrying wing-shaped LED light units which echo the form of the front headlamps. Like that of the Insignia Sports Tourer, the tailgate has a wraparound design for improved trunk access. Its deep glass screen is slightly convex to improve airflow.

The translucency of the fixed glass panel in the center of the roof is adaptive, allowing sunlight to warm the interior in the cold of winter, but darkening for coolness in summer. A duct at the rear edge of the roof is for additional cooling of the battery and electronic components.

Managing airflow and saving weight

Integral to the Flextreme GT/E’s expressive looks is the efficiency of the design execution. The small frontal area, low roof height (1308 mm) and a flat, enclosed underbody all enable the car to cleave the air with a minimum of disturbance.

A series of measures optimize airflow management. The 21-inch alloy wheels are relatively narrow, to reduce wind resistance, and fitted with 195/45, low rolling resistance tires. Clear, flush-mounted trim inserts also minimize air turbulence.

The minimal front intake improves airflow around the nose of the car and the underbody sweeps up, venturi-like, at the rear to further reduce drag.

The Flextreme GT/E also explores the potential for active shape shifting. At speeds above 50 km/h, a vertical panel extends along the body from the air extraction slot behind each rear wheel-arch. These 350 mm-long side spoilers guide high-speed airflow around the rear corners of the car, further reducing the amount of turbulence.

Mass reduction measures for the body include the use of lightweight, carbon composite outer panels, polycarbonate window glazing and aluminum alloy structural components. Compared to conventional materials, these offer a 40 percent weight saving which further contributes to reduced energy consumption and an increased driving range.

Innovative propulsion

The efficient concept also includes GM’s ground-breaking E-REV drive system, already developed for the Opel Ampera. The Flextreme GT/E shows the versatility of this technology by displaying it in a larger, mid-size vehicle format.

Despite its greater size and a maximum speed of more than 200 kilometers per hour, the Flextreme GT/E is projected to offer performance similar to that of the Ampera: a battery-powered driving range of up to 60 km – with zero CO2 tailpipe emissions – and a total range of more than 500 km. Average fuel consumption is estimated at 1.6 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of less than 40 g/km.

Unlike a hybrid vehicle, the wheels of the Flextreme GT/E are powered at all times by electricity. For typical journeys up to 60 km, energy is supplied by a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack located under the floor and rear seat.

However, unlike a battery-only electric vehicle, the Flextreme GT/E eliminates any possibility of range anxiety through fear of being stranded without power. The small gasoline engine/generator is seamlessly engaged to provide electricity whenever the battery’s supply becomes depleted. In this mode, the driving range is extended to more than 500 km, until the plug-in battery pack can be recharged or the car is refueled.

The motor in the electric drive unit delivers a substantial 370 Nm of instant torque, giving lively performance and projected zero to 100 km/h acceleration in less than nine seconds.

The Flextreme GT/E concept is a further step in Opel’s unfolding strategy for the electrification of the automobile, which includes a wide portfolio of products using battery, extended-range, hybrid and fuel cell technologies.

Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept: Technical Data

- By: Omar Rana

Opel today dropped a teaser of a new concept car that it will debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The concept “envisions many of the qualities the company is embracing as it moves forward: Coupling expressive, beautiful design with German engineering to meet the environmental challenges of tomorrow.”

The concept will feature the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera’s Voltec system. Opel said that the concept combines “green innovation and alternative propulsion.” It said that “the vision model is proof that size and comfort do not have to be sacrificed for a vehicle to be environmentally efficient.”

The Opel Voltec concept will be joined by the new Meriva, Ampera and Corsa.

Follow the jump for the press release.

Press Release:

Opel at Geneva: One premiere, one vision and loads of ecoFLEXiblity

Marching forth with the new Meriva, a concept car and proof of Opel’s green credentials

Rüsselsheim. Opel will excite Geneva Motor Show goers March 4 when it unveils the Meriva – a fresh, innovative, flexible champion for the monocab segment. Opel also will exhibit the company’s push to be a leader of environmentally responsible motoring with the debut of its futuristic concept car, the Opel Ampera extended-range electric vehicle and new Corsa, a fuel miser with up to 13 percent saving in fuel consumption.

“Opel is driving innovation and environmentally responsible propulsion in Europe and wrapping it in stylish, expressive design. All of that will be on display in Geneva,” says Alain Visser, Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Aftersales of Opel/Vauxhall.

Meriva: The flexibility champion

Innovative, versatile and elegant: The second generation Opel Meriva, to premiere March 4, will set the new standard for automotive versatility with a multitude of innovative features engineered to optimize the flexible use of space and packed in a distinctive, contemporary design.

The second generation Meriva offers clever, affordable, on-board flexibility. Its FlexSpace system has been further developed to become even more intuitive and easier to use. It also introduces FlexDoors, innovative rear-hinged rear doors that facilitate access to its cabin – a premiere for a volume manufacturer. Moreover, the new Meriva features great interior storage space enhanced by a revolutionary concept of flexible center console, as well as the Opel-exclusive FlexFix system – the integrated rear bicycle carrier that is stored like a drawer under the luggage compartment.

The Meriva’s flexibility trademark is enhanced by expressive exterior and interior styling that carries forward Opel’s award winning new sculptural design language already seen in the Insignia and Astra. The Meriva has the same Opel DNA, but its own personality: Its monocab silhouette is fluid, elegant and dynamic. The rear window graphic features a distinctive wave accentuating the rear-hinged FlexDoors, while also improving the view for rear seated passengers, particularly children.

The wide powertrain line up has been turbo-charged for efficient performance. The range offers a power bandwidth from 75 to 140 hp and will include a particularly economical ecoFLEX version. Naturally, it will come with a choice of 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions as well as a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Concept Car: Aspiring to a great future

Opel will premiere a concept car that envisions many of the qualities the company is embracing as it moves forward: Coupling expressive, beautiful design with German engineering to meet the environmental challenges of tomorrow. .

Combining design, green innovation and alternative propulsion, the vision model is proof that size and comfort do not have to be sacrificed for a vehicle to be environmentally efficient.

Opel Ampera: Showing off in Geneva

Another highlight of Geneva: the extended-range electric Opel Ampera. The five-door, four-seater Opel Ampera is on schedule to go into production late 2011. It carries the same design DNA as the Astra and the Insignia, Europe’s Car of the Year 2009, yet it uses a ground-breaking electric propulsion technology called Voltec.

Unlike other conventional electric propulsion systems, Voltec uses electricity as its primary power source and, later, gasoline as a means to generate electricity. This helps the Ampera overcome all issues related to the usual limited range of pure electric cars.

The Opel Ampera is just one part of Opel’s mission to be a European leader in alternative propulsions, using its expertise in innovative technologies and making them affordable.

New Corsa: The fuel miser

Part of Opel’s drive to make the world’s air cleaner, the new Corsa mid-cycle changes have reduced fuel consumption by up to 13 percent, yet without compromising on power or driving fun. The lively Corsa is not just a pretty car: It also offers customers the best quality. A recent report by Europe’s leading technical expert organization, DEKRA, rated the Opel Corsa as the best overall in terms of quality. In its 2010 report, the Corsa had the lowest defect rate of all vehicles tested.

The new Corsa offers a wide range of low carbon-emitting gasoline and diesel engines, including the 98g 1.3 CDTI engine Corsa ecoFLEX model. The powertrain line-up consists of a wide offer of gasoline engine from the 1-liter 3 cylinder (48 kW/65 hp ) entry level version to the turbo charged 1.6-liter on the Corsa OPC (141 kW/192 hp). On the diesel side, different versions of the 1.3 and 1.7 CDTI motors offer outputs ranging from 55 kW/75 hp to 96 kW/130 hp all with fuel consumption under 5 liters per 100 kilometers.

- By: Kap Shah

It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything from Opel since GM regained full control of the brand. Nick Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of Opel, said today that the brand will invest €11 billion ($15 billion USD) by 2014, a move that will reinvigorate 80 percent of Opel/Vauxhall carlines, while placing a strong emphasis on alternative propulsions.

The plan calls for 80 percent of the Opel/Vauxhall carlines to be at an age of three years or less by 2012 – that includes eight major launches in 2010 alone – such as Meriva, Corsa, Movano and Astra Sports Tourer – and another four in 2011, most notably the extended-range electric vehicle Ampera, an industry-first in Europe.

Reilly said that Opel will also spend €1 billion ($1.3 billion USD) in innovative and fuel-efficient powertrain technology as it introduces a lineup of new green vehicles. The brand also plans on accelerating efforts to introduce an entry in the sub-Corsa segment to make a strong push in the light commercial vehicle business.

Follow the jump for the press release for more details.

Press Release:

Opel/Vauxhall CEO Nick Reilly unveils ambitious Plan for the Future

Product offensive and new investments to put Opel on a sustainable path

o Opel to invest €11 billion by 2014
o Positive assessment of company’s plan by independent auditors Warth & Klein
o Opel formally applies for loans or loan guarantees
o New product offensive to utilize Opel design and technology expertise
o Focus on alternative propulsion, desirable core products and growth markets
o Break-even by 2011, profitability expected by 2012
o 20 percent capacity reduction across Europe

Frankfurt/Rüsselsheim. Chief Executive Officer Nick Reilly today announced an ambitious five-year €11 billion Plan for the Future that will reinvigorate 80 percent of Opel/Vauxhall carlines and place a strong emphasis on alternative propulsions.

At the same time, Reilly said the external auditor Warth & Klein judged the plan sound and viable. With this assessment, the company this morning formally applied for loans or loan guarantees from the German government.

“We are extremely pleased that we now have independent confirmation that our plan is sound and will place Opel and Vauxhall on the road to sustainable, long-term profitability,” Reilly said. “We now have a road map, we know where we are headed and we are working with all our partners so we can switch into high gear for a successful future.”

The viability plan envisions that 80 percent of the Opel/Vauxhall carlines will be at an age of three years or less by 2012. This includes eight major launches in 2010 alone – such as Meriva, Corsa, Movano and Astra Sports Tourer – and another four in 2011, most notably the extended-range electric vehicle Ampera, an industry-first in Europe.

In addition, Opel/Vauxhall will spend €1 billion in innovative and fuel-efficient powertrain technology as it introduces a range of new green products. This includes:

* Launching an extended-range electric vehicle in addition to the Ampera
* Introducing pure battery-electric vehicles in smaller-size segments
* Expanding LPG and CNG applications, start/stop technology and right-sizing of engines.

In addition, the company has accelerated efforts to introduce an entry in the sub-Corsa segment and to make a strong push in the light commercial vehicle business. Several studies are under way to look at possible profitable export programs in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.

“Opel/Vauxhall has a clear vision: to be a leading European manufacturer of high quality, desirable automotive products, based on German engineering, driven by a united team of professionals and respected around the world. This vision will be realized by offering an exciting and expanded product portfolio based on a strategic push into alternative propulsion technology,” said Reilly.

In order to support this vision, the company has sharpened and refined its brand DNA and product pillars, and is embarking on a program that ensures this DNA is engrained in every future Opel/Vauxhall product. Future products will be developed in Rüsselsheim at the International Technical Development Center. If they are based on a vehicle architecture developed elsewhere, they will return to Rüsselsheim early to ensure they deliver on the Opel/Vauxhall brand promise.

€11 billion investment over next five years

The viability plan requires long-term funding of €3.3 billion to run the business during the transformation. In total, the company plans to invest approximately €11 billion over the next five years.

As part of the €3.3 billion funding requirements, parent company GM has already injected €600 million into the new Opel/Vauxhall business. In addition, GM provided €650 million in advanced payments in January to ensure appropriate cash positions. The company will continue to work with European governments to secure funding of approximately €2.7 billion through loans or loan guarantees. Discussions with employee representatives about the overall plan continue both on European and national levels.

“We will build a European company that is profitable, self-sustainable and fit for the long-term,” Reilly said. “This keeps a manufacturing base in Europe. It is good for Europe, good for our employees and good for our customers. We therefore trust that the plan will be supported by our employees.”

Major restructuring to include 20 percent reduction in capacity

The business plan foresees Opel/Vauxhall will break even by 2011 and be profitable by 2012. It is predicated on economic forecasts that 13.4 million cars will be sold in Western Europe this year – a reduction of more than 20 percent from 2007. Opel/Vauxhall does not believe the market will come back to the levels seen earlier in this century for quite some time.

To adjust to the current and forecasted market environment, Opel/Vauxhall will reduce its capacity by approximately 20 percent. This requires a job level reduction of approximately 8,300. That reduction will be spread out across most of Europe and includes 1,300 employees in sales and administration and 7,000 jobs in manufacturing. This includes the intent to close the Opel production facility in Antwerp, Belgium, as previously announced.

Once the capacity reduction is implemented, the company is expected to run at approximately 112 percent of its capacity on a two-shift basis and 87 percent on a three-shift basis and therefore has – along with other potential measures – sufficient upside potential once the market starts to recover.

The company has eliminated the former GM Europe management structure in Zurich, Switzerland, and is now managed from the Opel brand headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

Market share maintained due to strong new vehicle launches

Opel/Vauxhall started 2010 with confidence. The company maintained a 2009 market share of 7.59 percent in Western Europe in spite of tough price competition. Opel increased its market share and regained the number two position in its German home market, while Vauxhall remained number two in the United Kingdom. Sales of the Opel Insignia – European Car of the Year 2009 – jumped to 160,000 in 2009. In Europe, the Opel Insignia is the leader in the medium sedan segment. The new Astra won the prestigious European Golden Steering Wheel award (Goldenes Lenkrad) and several other awards even prior to its market introduction. More than 75,000 orders for the five-door version have already been placed.

Recently, the DEKRA vehicle monitoring organization reported Corsa had the lowest breakdown rate of all cars on the market in Germany. Despite a 16 percent reduction in volume, the company still was able to reduce Hours per Vehicle by four percent, an indication of its manufacturing excellence. Opel/Vauxhall for the first time reported less than 20 HPV – an industry milestone only achieved by two other companies.

“Today’s announcement marks the beginning of a new era for Opel/Vauxhall. It is the biggest overhaul in the company’s recent history,” said Reilly.

“We now have all the necessary ingredients for a successful future in place: a motivated workforce, a new and accountable company culture, a product offensive based on innovative and highly fuel-efficient technology, a competitive cost structure based on conservative volume assumptions, a dedicated management team operating out of our Rüsselsheim headquarters, and the support from so many stakeholders. Now it is up to us to prove that we can do it. I am confident that we will,” he added.

Manufacturing Operation Plan

- By: Omar Rana

Nick Reilly, the new CEO of GM’s German subsidiary Opel motors, has asked his staff to not stay disillusioned and place blame for the company’s problems with GM.

“That is only a poor excuse to avoid assuming responsibility for the difficult situation — it’s a victim mentality.”, Reilly said.

There are numerous things that contributed to Opel’s decline, including the lack of a product smaller than their subcompact Corsa, will likely be overshadowed by declining demand in 2010. Reilly also predicted that the western European market would lose about 1.5 million units this year, bringing the market to around 12.1 million units.

Reilly became CEO of Opel on Friday, and has served as president of GM Europe since December, when he moved over from GM’s Asia-Pacific region where he had been since 2002.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Opel today unveiled the new Meriva prior to its debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March. Totally redesigned for 2011, the new Opel Meriva features a significant amount of space engineered to be packed in a compact and contemporary design.

The 2011 Opel Meriva features FlexSpace rear-seating, high seating position and roomy cabin. It also gets a “coolness factor” with new FlexDoors, which are rear-hinged rear doors.

Engine choices range from standard gasoline to turbocharged engines with output ranging from 75 to 140-hp. Opel says that an ecoFLEX version will also be offered. Transmission choices will include a 5 and 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Follow the jump for the press release.

2011 Opel Meriva:

Press Release:

New Opel Meriva: The Flexibility Champion

- Innovation: A multitude of unique features extends leadership in flexibility
- Coolness follows function: Rear-hinged FlexDoors improve cabin access
- Debut: World premiere in Geneva, March 4

Rüsselsheim. Innovative, versatile and elegant: The second generation Opel Meriva, to premiere March 4 at the Geneva Motor Show, will set the new standard for automotive versatility with a multitude of innovative features engineered to optimize the flexible use of space. And it is all packed in a distinctive, contemporary design.

After pioneering automobile on-board versatility with the compact seven-seater Zafira in 1999, Opel created a new market segment for small, affordable monocabs when it launched the first generation Meriva in 2003. With its revolutionary FlexSpace rear-seating concept, high seating position and roomy cabin, the Meriva was big on flexibility yet small in size. This popular formula has enabled it to consistently lead the small monocab segment, with sales in Europe totaling more than 1 million units.

Now, the second generation Meriva again raises the bar for affordable, on-board flexibility. Its FlexSpace system has been further developed to become even more intuitive and easier to use. It also introduces FlexDoors, innovative rear-hinged rear doors that facilitate access to its cabin – a premiere for a volume manufacturer. Moreover, the new Meriva features great interior storage space enhanced by a revolutionary concept of flexible center console, as well as the Opel-exclusive FlexFix system – the integrated rear bicycle carrier that is stored like a drawer under the luggage compartment.

The Meriva’s flexibility trademark is enhanced by expressive exterior and interior styling that carries forward Opel’s award-winning new sculptural design language. Its monocab silhouette is fluid, elegant and dynamic. The rear window graphic features a distinctive wave accentuating the rear-hinged FlexDoors, improving the view for rear seated passengers, particularly children.

The new reference in on-board versatility

“With the Zafira Flex 7 and the Meriva’s FlexSpace seating concepts, we invented a new kind of fully integrated, on-board flexibility,” says Alain Visser, Vice President Sales, Marketing and Aftersales Opel/Vauxhall. “With the new Meriva, we wanted to engineer the new versatility champion in the automotive industry. I don’t see any other car offering so many ideas that make one’s life easier.”

Increased flexibility is extended to all areas in the new Meriva. In the cabin, the innovative FlexSpace rear seating system introduced in the first Meriva has been further developed: It requires even less effort to move the seats in their different positions or to fold them down.

Throughout the cabin, storage space is considerably increased with convenient locations provided for items commonly carried inside a car. The revolutionary FlexRail console system consisting of exchangeable storage units that can slide on rails located between the front seats provides convenient and adaptable storage for any kind of use.

Up front, the generously proportioned seats are similar to those of the new Astra and Insignia. They offer a class-leading range of adjustment – 240 mm forwards/backwards and 65 mm in height – allowing people of all size and age to find optimal comfort for their journeys. Also new for Meriva is the availability of Opel’s unique FlexFix integrated rear bicycle carrier.

Entering into a new era of doors

Meriva opens up a new dimension in rear seat access with unique rear-hinged rear doors. The FlexDoors concept is a first from a volume manufacturer in the industry. Unlike the few well-known rear-hinged doors systems available, FlexDoors features full-sized doors which open independently without the need for a clamshell overlap by the front doors. A conventional B-pillar makes this independent opening possible, while ensuring good body rigidity and side impact protection. In addition, it has a handle that further facilitates entry and exit.

FlexDoors provide great functionality by making it easy to get into and out of the rear seat. Locating the door hinges on the C-pillar also allows more clearance for passengers’ feet to swing past the B-pillar flange. The FlexDoors also open up to 84 degrees, much wider than conventional doors, for which 68-70 degrees is the usual standard. Front passengers also benefit from the same 84 degrees opening angle. FlexDoors are also more ergonomic and convenient for the front passengers to open FlexDoors when stowing a jacket, a briefcase or an umbrella behind the front seat.

FlexDoors also provide greater safety, especially for young families. Parents can reach into the rear seat more easily to help with buckling up, and children can be more safely guided when getting in and out of the vehicle. For example, when both the front and rear doors are open at the same time, a safety zone is created as both child and parent can get out of the car without a door separating them, reducing the risk of children stepping out into traffic.

FlexDoors add style to increased functionality. Stepping in and out of the vehicle not only feels much more natural, it looks cool and elegant. It’s no longer necessary to twist or slide out of the rear seat.

The FlexDoors concept has been successfully market tested and evaluated with Meriva customers since 2006. It s supported by an array of patented locking systems designed to optimize safety.

Monocab expression of new Opel design

Inside and out, the Meriva moves forward Opel’s new, expressive design language – sculptural artistry meets German precision – and adheres to the same focus on quality already seen on Insignia and the new Astra.

Opel designers created a dynamic and elegant monocab. A lower, sweeping roof-line combined with Opel’s signature blade side-body motif and the wave rear window line give the Meriva a fresh, distinctive character and look.

The FlexDoors invite you to an interior landscape of harmoniously flowing lines and surfaces. The wraparound wing shaped instrument panel enhances the feeling of width and roominess. The forward leaning center stack contributes to this and adds a notion of sportiness and sculpture.

The interior is appointed with six different levels of colour and trim. The widest choice ever offered on an Opel. The high standard of fit and finish of the chosen textures and materials as well as the layout and decoration of the controls is typical of more expensive cars.

Meriva to launch with six environmentally friendly engines

The new Meriva benefits from a longer wheelbase, wider front and rear tracks, all contributing to improved handling and greater ride comfort.

The range of powertrains features economical and efficient turbocharged engines offering a power bandwidth from 75 to 140 hp. A particularly economical ecoFLEX version will also be offered. The Meriva will offer a choice of 5 and 6-speed manual transmissions as well as a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Designed and developed at Opel’s engineering center in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the new Meriva will be built in Zaragoza, Spain and is scheduled to go on sale this summer.

- By: Kap Shah

According to GM Europe’s head Nick Reilly, Opel will launch a range of hybrid models within five years as part of campaign to overhaul its product lineup.

“We are confident that we can not only maintain but also expand our market share in Europe,” he told German magazine Auto Motor und Sport. “We will have hybrid engines in our programme, in the next five years.”

Reilly said that Opel is going to do its best to push hybrid models unlike former CEO Carl-Peter Forster, who said that the move would be too expensive.

The Opel Ampera, a sister model to the Chevrolet Volt, will hit European markets at the end of 2011. Reilly said that GM of Europe expects to sell 10,000 to 15,000 units a year. He said that a pure electric-car could be introduced within the next three years. A replacement for the entry-level Agila is also expected. A small SUV based on the Corsa for 2012/2013 is also in the works.

“We first have to conduct our restructuring successfully in addition to polishing our image and making regular profits. This is planned for 2012,” Reilly said.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Reuters

Steinmetz and Klasen Motors set a new speed record for a street-legal Opel vehicle with its modified version of the Insignia Sports Tourer OPC – making it officially the fastest Opel ever made. The record speed, set in mid-October at Nardo, Italy, came in at 178.6 mph.

While Steinmetz took care of much of the visual modifications, Klasen Motors added a bigger turbocharger, new exhaust and a retuned intercooler and reprogrammed the ECU. That brings total output of the Opel Insignia Sports Tourer OPC to 400-hp with a peak torque of 406 lb-ft.

Make the jump for the press release.

Press Release:

Insignia Sports Tourer OPC by STEINMETZ

World Record in Nardo

For the tuning elite, the dates of 18/19 October 2009 represented a very special time in the calendar:
the High Performance Event by Continental and Auto Bild SportsCars in Nardo.

Nardo – an oval over 12 km, on which speeds far above 250 km/h can be – and are – achieved!

For Steinmetz Opel-Tuning and Klasen Motors, the ideal place for breaking the existing speed world record for a road-legal Opel… and for setting a new record of 287.4 km/h.

This puts the Insignia Sports Tourer OPC by Steinmetz / Klasen right at the top of the Opel best ever list. For everyone who wants to share in the flair, the following parts are available for the Opel Insignia:

The current Steinmetz product range for both vehicles includes:

Alloy wheels ST7 20″, in white & polished black 5-door, Sports Tourer and OPC
Lowering 5-door, Sports Tourer and OPC
Front grille 5-door and Sports TourerFront spoiler, pedestrian-friendly 5-door and Sports Tourer
Roof spoiler Sports Tourer only
Foot mats 5-door and Sports TourerDoor
handle trims, chromed stainless steel 5-door and Sports Tourer
The latest Klasen Motors product range for the performance upgrade:

A modified intercooler, larger turbo with 3″ exhaust system including rear silencer, modified fuel injection system and reprogrammed engine electronics are the components responsible for the incredible performance upgrade.Developing 400 HP at 5250 rpm and 550 Nm, there is plenty of power available in every situation to satisfy even the keenest and most enthusiastic driver.

- By: Kap Shah

Opel’s new CEO Nick Reilly, says that a new minicar is a “top priority” at Opel and Vauxhall. He said that the European brand is also looking into launching an electric-vehicle. As of right now, Opel doesn’t have an entry into Europe’s fast-growing minicar segment to compete with vehicles such as the Ford Ka, reports Automotive News.

“In my view Opel needs a mini in today’s market, that will be our top priority,” Reilly said.

Reilly said that another electric-vehicle besides the Opel Ampera, which is based on the Chevrolet Volt, is also being considered. He said that the Ampera will originally be imported to Europe from the U.S. when its goes on sale in 2011; nonetheless, production will move to Europe in the future.

- By: Stephen Calogera

General Motors Company has regained full control of its Opel brand after paying back 1.5 billion euro in emergency loan including interest. The move dissolves a trust that held a 65 percent stake in the European carmaker.

“The shares in Adam Opel GmbH were returned to GM,” the German economics ministry said in a statement on Monday.

GM lost majority control of Opel in June, when the German government agreed to provide the Detroit automaker with a 6-month emergency loan to Opel hours before GM filed for a pre-packaged bankruptcy.

The main idea behind the trust was to monitor Opel’s liquidity and oversee the sale of a majority stake to a new investor. Earlier this month GM’ board of directors decided to keep Opel and restructure it, terminating to plans to sell the brand to Magna International.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Reuters

General Motors Company will present a plan later this week for its future plans for Opel. The automaker is expected to ask the European government to pay for most of the $4.9 billion it needs to restructure the struggling European brand.

Nick Reilly, interim CEO at Opel, said it would be “quite difficult” for GM to supply a significant part of the funding because it is facing restructuring costs in the United States and elsewhere.

“We are looking for support of any government that feels willing to be able to provide us some financing support in the medium term,” Reilly told reporters after meeting officials from EU nations where GM makes cars. “We have indicated that we will provide some of the funding.”

Reilly refused to outline details of the plan that may include a 20 to 25 percent reduction in Opel’s car making capacity.

“People at the plants will be the first to hear it,” he said.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: MSNBC

When the 2011 Buick Regal goes on sale in the second-quarter of 2010, it will be offered with a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine making 182-hp and a maximum torque of 172 lb-ft. A turbocharged variant making 220-hp will join the lineup later next year.

However, for those of you looking for more power from the new Regal (basically an Opel Insignia OPC version of the Regal) you’re in for a treat. According to Bob Lutz, under consideration is the revival of the Regal GS with the same 335-hp 2.8L turbocharged V6 and all-wheel-drive as the Regal’s European sibling, the Opel Insignia OPC.

Also under consideration is the Regal Sport Wagon, a Buick version of the Insignia Sports Tourer that will compete with the upcoming Acura TSX wagon. Lutz said that GM may definitely consider the model if the new Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon does well in the U.S. market.

Now only if we can get the Regal Sport Wagon in a GS trim – we’ll be satisfied.

Click here for more news on the Buick Regal.

2011 Buick Regal:

- By: Omar Rana

Source CARandDRIVER

GM announced today that it had paid back another 200 million euros to the German government towards the bridge loan that it received back in June in order to save its European subsidiary Opel motors from bankruptcy, according to Automotive News. To date, GM has paid back 1.1 billion euros of the 1.5 billion euro loan.

There was another 4.5 billion euros offered to assist an Opel restructuring, but that offer is now doubtful considering that GM has decided to keep Opel as opposed to selling to Magna International Inc., as was originally planned.

GM CEO Fritz Henderson had apologized to Germany for the way the Opel deal was handled, and earlier today, the company also reaffirmed that it does in fact wish for state aid in order to overhaul Opel. This reaffirmation comes in response to GM chairman Ed Whitacre’s comments that Henderson’s apology was unnecessary, and that GM was financially healthy enough to go at restructuring without state aid.

“I don’t agree whatsoever with Henderson in that regard. The decision-making process may have been confusing for some, but we have nothing to be apologetic for,” Automotive News quotes Whitacre as saying.

“The restructuring of Opel for long-term sustainability requires involvement and financial support from all stakeholders, including employees and governments,” GM Europe said in a statement on Friday. This is a hot-button issue on the German political scene since GM reneged on its decision to off-load 55% of the company to Canadian company Magna International and its Russian partner, Sberbank. Opel currently employs 50,000 people, half of which work in Germany. The company also has plants in Britain, Spain, Belgium, and Poland.

- By: Stephen Calogera

General Motors CEO Fritz Henderson was hanging out in Germany earlier this week in an effort to repair relations after the Detroit automaker announced last week that it will keep Opel and restructure it, putting a surprising end to plans to sell the brand to Magna International.

Henderson has previously said that GM could seek assistance from the European government to help pay for the estimated $4 to $5 billion restructuring costs involved in getting Opel to be competitive again. Well, things aren’t looking so good for Henderson or GM.

German Economy Minister Rainer Bruederle said that GM, not Germany, should pay to fix Opel.

“I expressed my expectation that General Motors should basically carry out the financing itself,” Bruederle said.

Bruederle also said that executives from GM apologized over the lack of communication when it decided not go ahead with the sale of Opel and said that the Detroit company will present their restructuring plan for Opel soon.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Reuters

General Motors Company CEO Fritz Henderson, who is currently visiting Opel’s headquarters in Ruesselsheim to repair relations, said that Opel will not play a global role in the empire of the Detroit automaker. Nonetheless, Henderson said that GM will give the European brand more freedom.

“We have a strategy in Brazil around Chevrolet … It’s a strong brand; the last thing we usually need is another brand,” he said.

Henderson expressed very little interest to market Opel vehicles outside of Europe or even moving the company’s stats from a limited liability company to an incorporated stock company, reports Automotive News.

“Opel is a regional brand and I don’t see that changing. That doesn’t mean I’m closed to ideas about how it can be used elsewhere; but the measure of the Opel brand’s success will be Europe, because if you don’t win here all the discussion of exports will be irrelevant,” Henderson said.

Sorry to shatter your dreams of seeing Opel branded vehicles on U.S. roads.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Reuters

General Motors Company’s CEO Fritz Henderson is in Germany meeting with leaders of Opel to discuss the brand’s future. Opel spokesman Ulrich Weber said that Henderson wanted to get a firsthand look at the situation at Opel headquarters in Ruesselsheim.

The talks today ended without any clear plans for the future of Opel’s five plants in Germany. Henderson will hold more talks on Tuesday.

Henderson is being accompanied by Nick Reilly, director of GM’s international operations and interim CEO of Opel until GM finds a replacement for Carl-Peter Forster, who is leaving the company.

GM announced last week that it will keep Opel and restructure it, putting an end to plans to sell the brand to Magna International and Russian lender Sberbank. The deal was backed by the German government and Opel workers.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Detroit News