Opel is a German automobile manufacturer based in Rüsselsheim, Germany. The company was founded on January 21, 1862, by Adam Opel, and initially produced sewing machines, bicycles, and other machinery. In 1899, Opel began producing automobiles, with the first car being the Opel Lutzmann 1.8L.
During World War I, Opel shifted its production to munitions and military vehicles. After the war, the company returned to civilian vehicle production, introducing the Opel 4/12 HP in 1922, which was a significant success.
In the post-war period, Opel became a leading manufacturer of passenger cars in Europe, with models such as the Opel Rekord and Opel Kadett becoming popular. The company also introduced its first diesel engine in 1956.
Opel experienced significant growth throughout the 1960s, expanding its product line to include trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles. In 1971, the company launched the Opel Mokka, a compact MPV that was innovative for its time.
In 1999, General Motors (GM) acquired a majority stake in Opel, with GM taking full control of the company in 2017. Under GM's ownership, Opel introduced new models such as the Opel Astra and Opel Insignia.
In November 2020, Groupe PSA (now known as Stellantis), which owns brands such as Peugeot and Citroen, acquired a 12% stake in Opel from GM. This marked the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two companies.
Today, Opel is one of Europe's leading manufacturers of passenger cars, with a product line that includes models such as the Opel Corsa, Opel Mokka, and Opel Astra. The company has a significant presence in over 50 countries worldwide and employs around 35,000 people globally.
Opel has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, having introduced several eco-friendly features and technologies across its product line. Some of these initiatives include the use of alternative powertrains, such as electric motors and hybrid systems, as well as advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning systems.
In terms of sales performance, Opel has consistently ranked among the top-selling brands in Europe over the years. The company's success can be attributed to its focus on producing high-quality vehicles that meet customer needs, combined with a strong distribution network and marketing efforts.
Opel has also been involved in various motorsport activities throughout its history, including rallying and circuit racing. Some of its notable successes include winning the European Rally Championship twice and achieving multiple victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race.
Overall, Opel is a significant player in the global automotive industry, with a rich history, innovative product line, and strong commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction.
