Opel Unveils Experimental Battery-Powered Crossover Concept Car
Opel, the German car brand under Stellantis, has officially revealed its Experimental battery-powered crossover concept car. This groundbreaking concept car sets the stage for the next generation of production vehicles in terms of design and potential technology integration. The Opel Experimental EV is set to make its public debut during the IAA Mobility show in Munich this September.
The Experimental EV is built on Opel’s state-of-the-art Stellantis BEV platform, which bears similarities to the STLA platform. It falls into the European C segment, placing it smaller than the Tesla Model Y but comparable to the upcoming Opel Grandland all-electric crossover. The vehicle features an all-wheel drive and a steer-by-wire system that allows the steering wheel to retract when not in use.
Opel CEO Florian Huettl expressed excitement about the Experimental EV, stating that it provides a glimpse of upcoming models, technologies, and the future design direction of the brand. Huettl also noted that the concept vehicle embodies Opel’s pioneering spirit and represents a new era for the brand.
One of the most striking features of the Experimental EV is the absence of chrome from its sleek silhouette. Instead, the vehicle incorporates lighting elements and bold graphics to emphasize its coupe crossover proportions. At the front, an illuminated Opel Blitz and the brand’s signature compass adorn the vehicle, while elongated headlights flank them. The futuristic design continues at the back with sleek tail lights. The vehicle is equipped with air flaps at the front and rear, as well as a retractable rear diffuser that adapts to driving conditions for improved aerodynamic efficiency.
Opel also pays attention to sustainability in the Experimental EV. The tires, developed in partnership with Goodyear, are made from recycled rubber. The vehicle is fitted with three-zone Ronal wheels that feature an aero design for increased efficiency.
The interior of the Experimental EV offers ample space comparable to a D-segment vehicle, thanks to Opel’s Space Detox concept. This concept emphasizes lightweight seats, a retractable steering wheel, and the removal of non-essential elements, creating a roomy cabin that feels larger than it actually is. Traditional screens have been replaced by an augmented reality projection system that displays information and entertainment above the dashboard. The vehicle also replaces side mirrors with fully integrated 180-degree cameras positioned inside the C-pillars.
While details regarding power, battery capacity, and range are yet to be announced, these aspects are less significant since the Experimental EV is a concept car. However, the specifications of subsequent production vehicles based on this concept will play a crucial role in their potential success in the market.
Overall, Opel’s Experimental battery-powered crossover concept car represents the brand’s vision for the future. Its bold design, innovative technology integration, and sustainability-conscious features give a glimpse into the direction Opel is taking as it continues to pioneer new frontiers in the automotive industry.