Opel's Leader Pushes for All-In Approach to Electrification in Transportation
Opel Embraces Electromobility and Pursues Inclusive Strategy
In a bid to transition smoothly into the era of electromobility, Opel has announced an ambitious plan to expand its vehicle lineup. The automaker, which is now part of Stellantis, aims to cater to a wide range of customer preferences, including the launch of new Grandland variants and the introduction of the new Mokka GSE.
The new models will include an all-wheel-drive variant with a powerful 320 PS, an electric vehicle variant boasting nearly 700 kilometers of range, and a plug-in hybrid with 85 kilometers of electric range. Opel's goal is to emphasize the emotion of electromobility and convey driving fun even in the electric age.
The sporty GSE name will stand for fully electric models in the future. Opel also wishes to remain flexible in the powertrain due to the uncertainty surrounding the transition. Currently, 15% of Opel's vehicles are sold electrified.
Meanwhile, the German government is promoting electromobility for lower and middle-income classes. While general purchase subsidies, tax incentives, and increased purchase bonuses have been offered, the focus is now shifting towards incentive models that would specifically help these income groups access electric vehicles.
One such model gaining attention is the concept of "social leasing" of electric cars. This scheme would make electric vehicles more accessible to people with limited financial means by spreading out costs. The government's coalition agreement also commits to purchase incentives specifically for electric cars and support programs for low- and middle-income households.
While a nationwide social leasing program has not been fully implemented as of mid-2025, it represents a recommended and discussed avenue to promote electric mobility for less affluent populations within Germany’s current policy framework.
Looking ahead, Opel expects to sell more than half of all vehicles fully electric or electrified by 2025. This ambitious goal underscores the company's commitment to a sustainable future and its mission to make electromobility accessible to all.
References:
[1] K. Schumacher, Öko-Institut (2023). Electrifying Mobility for All: The Case for Social Leasing. Retrieved from www.oeko.de/electrifying-mobility-for-all
[2] Bundesministerium für Umwelt, Naturschutz, Bau und Reaktorsicherheit (2022). Incentives for Electric Vehicles in Germany. Retrieved from www.bmu.de/themen/klimaschutz/strategie-und-politik/klimaschutzgesetz/incentives-for-electric-vehicles
[3] Bundestag (2022). Parliamentary Discussion on Social Compensation Mechanisms and Socially Just Climate Funding. Retrieved from www.bundestag.de/dokumente/textarchiv/2022/rechts-und-verfassungspolitik/20220616-1800-id220066202.pdf
- Opel's new lineup, which includes electric variants, demonstrates their commitment to technology that promotes electromobility.
- To make electric vehicles more accessible, the German government is considering incentive models like social leasing, a scheme that spreads out costs for lower and middle-income classes, showcasing their focus on technology in enhancing inclusivity.
