160 years of Opel mean 160 years of innovations for millions of people. In the course of its long history, the traditional manufacturer from Rüsselsheim has repeatedly met challenges with new ideas and innovations. 75 years ago, with the Olympia, the first production car rolled off the production line after the plant in Rüsselsheim was rebuilt.
With the new Astra “Made in Rüsselsheim”, Opel is driving into the future today: The newly crowned “Golden Steering Wheel 2022” title winner is more dynamic than ever – with a clear, bold design and a new brand face, the Opel Vizor. At the same time, the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer remain true everyday heroes.
1947 A self-supporting all-steel body and low weight already characterize the pre-war model. The 47 Olympia differs from its predecessor in particular by an improved front axle with double wishbones and a slightly smaller wheelbase. Axle and control come from the Opel captain. A concept that accelerates car production in Rüsselsheim.
2022 The lines are powerfully drawn, the pixel light is stadium-bright, the ergonomic seats are excellent. And the new Astra is electric for the first time – if desired. Because the compact class bestseller is the first Opel model that offers customers the free choice of purely electric drive, plug-in hybrid or classic combustion engine.
1947 The cockpit in the ’47 Olympia is designed symmetrically: a speedometer (right) and a multi-instrument (left) are placed in the middle. The driver and front passenger each have their own oval glove compartment, as well as a sun visor. There are also individual seats, a center switch, a one-piece windshield and a small rear window. The trunk is loaded from the inside.
2022 Bold and clear – the new Astra is a design statement from the brand. This is especially true for the interior. A leap in time has taken place here: The fully digital cockpit, the Opel Pure Panel, offers a completely new, intuitive user experience. Important settings such as air conditioning can still be selected directly with just a few switches.
1947 It is December 28, 1947. One Sunday after Christmas. The ceremony will be led by Opel trustee E.U. Neumann (at the lectern). Series production of the Opel Olympia marks the beginning of a new era. The cornerstone for the booming production in Rüsselsheim has been laid – and for the mobility of millions of people. As early as the late 1940s, models such as the Olympia, Kapitän and Co. were making a broad section of the population mobile and innovations affordable for everyone.
2022 Today, 75 years later, it is the Astra that rolls off the production line in Rüsselsheim. And the compact class bestseller also marks a new beginning – the model is the linchpin of the company’s electric offensive. From next year, the sporty GSe and the battery-electric Astra Electric will be manufactured here in addition to the plug-in hybrid. The goal is clearly defined: From 2024, all Opel models will also be available in an electrified version.
December 2022
Photos: Opel, Opel Archive