The Opel history of concept cars at the IAA began in 1965, when Opel became the first European brand ever to demonstrate its own innovative strength with a concept car built entirely in-house. The name: Opel Experimental GT. With its waisted "coke-bottle design", the flat, tapered front end, bulbous fenders, round rear lights and the characteristic folding headlights at the front, the Experimental GT wins the hearts of the public right from the start.
The enthusiasm is so great that Opel produces the Opel GT in series just three years later.
Sensational: Opel CD Concept
Inspired by the great success of the Experimental GT, the Opel designers and engineers set about creating the next sensational show car from Rüsselsheim. In 1969, the brand unveiled the Opel CD (Coupé Diplomat), a two-seater luxury coupé based on the Opel Diplomat.
With its fiberglass body, a partially removable glass dome instead of doors, 15-inch alloy wheels, adjustable steering column, freely suspended instrument panel, adjustable pedals and a center console with dummy telephone, the Opel CD makes visions of the future tangible.
Study based on the Corsa: Opel Junior
Let's move on to 1983: 14 years after the Opel CD, the manufacturer takes a completely different approach with the presentation of the Opel Junior. The focus is not on future design, but rather on sustainable mobility with low fuel consumption. Its drag coefficient is 0.31, which, together with the low kerb weight of 650 kilograms, should enable a fuel consumption of just 4.0 liters per 100 kilometers.
Based on the Corsa A, the Junior offers space for four people and clever details such as seat covers that can be used as sleeping bags. Parts of the dashboard such as the stereo system or clock can be removed and used outside the vehicle.
Another Corsa modification: Opel Scamp
Ten years later, the best-selling small car Corsa once again formed the basis for the 1993 Opel Scamp study. With its increased ground clearance, the Scamp can be considered the forerunner of modern B-SUVs. The concept vehicle offers space for up to four people.
The rear seats and load compartment are covered by a practical folding roof that can be opened completely. The SUV approach is also underlined by special devices in the trunk that enable the safe transportation of two bicycles or other sports equipment.
Pioneering: Opel Monza Concept
At the IAA 2013, Opel is presenting a concept that offers another exciting glimpse into the future. With LED projections and car-to-car and car-to-x communication, the Opel Monza Concept gullwing study offers visionary technologies in infotainment and connectivity.
The Monza Concept also builds a bridge to the increasing electrification of the automobile. Its modular architecture enables the integration of various drive alternatives, from plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel cells to conventional combustion engines. The IAA exhibit presents itself as an electric vehicle with a monovalent CNG range extender.
The future: Opel Experimental
At this year's IAA Mobility in September 2023, the Opel Experimental makes a clear statement: As the latest concept car from Rüsselsheim, it provides a glimpse of upcoming models and technologies, the future design and the future of the Opel brand.
