Opel has reaffirmed its dedication to electrification, despite the reservations expressed by Carlos Tavares in a recent interview with Automobilwoche. The CEO of Stellantis highlighted the potential for a shift in public opinion and policy regarding electric vehicles, particularly in light of the upcoming elections in the United States and Europe in 2024. This has sparked concerns about the future of electric vehicle initiatives within the Stellantis group, including Opel. However, in a discussion with Opel’s CEO, Florian Huettl, it was assured that there are no intentions to stray from the brand’s electrification strategy.
Opel has been diligently pursuing a clearly defined electric strategy for several years, with the aim of achieving 100% zero-emission models by 2028. According to Huettl, this objective remains unwavering, with plans to transition exclusively to electric vehicles by the end of 2028, gradually phasing out all multi-energy models.
By 2025, Opel will no longer offer any non-electric models, with the replacements for the Crossland and Grandland set to be the final internal combustion engine vehicles from the brand. The company is fully dedicated to embracing electric mobility and is prepared to take the lead in the automotive industry.
Huettl acknowledges that the current high cost of electric vehicles presents a significant barrier for many consumers. In response to this issue, Opel intends to introduce a purely electric vehicle in the B-segment priced at €25,000. This initiative aims to make electric mobility more accessible to a wider audience, without compromising on quality or performance. While there has been speculation about the possibility of Opel’s new model succeeding the Adam and Agila, it is evident that this offering will cater to a broader market segment, filling the gap between affordability and premium quality.
Despite the more affordable price point, Opel’s new electric vehicle is expected to provide a compelling option for buyers seeking a high-quality, affordable electric vehicle, without sacrificing features or performance. The brand’s commitment to electric mobility underscores its position within the Stellantis portfolio and its ambition to compete with other mainstream premium brands, while maintaining a distinct German identity.
In conclusion, Opel’s future is unquestionably electric, with the brand’s steadfast commitment to electrification evident in its upcoming product plans. The transition towards electric mobility underscores the brand’s forward-looking approach and determination to remain at the forefront of innovation in the automotive industry. With Opel’s strategic initiatives and commitment to affordable electric mobility, it is evident that the brand is well-prepared to adapt to the changing landscape of the automotive market while maintaining its position as a leader in sustainable mobility.