Opel has announced its intention to produce a new C-segment SUV in Europe, the first model of the intended expanded partnership with Leapmotor, writes Trish Whelan. Both are part of the Stellantis Group. The SUV would be designed and created at Opel in Russelsheim and developed by international teams located in Germany and China.
The completely new, all-electric SUV will extend the brand’s current line-up. With Stellantis and Leapmotor contemplating an expansion of their partnership, the new vehicle is intended to serve as a blueprint for efficient global collaboration. It would also enable the German manufacturer to take a major step forward in terms of electrification within the shortest possible time scale with sales of the newcomer expected to start in 2028.
The new vehicle would be expected to use core components of the latest Leapmotor electric architecture and battery technology, combined with Opel’s signature design, on-board experience, chassis engineering as well as lighting and seat technology.
The newcomer would benefit from the Stellantis production network in Europe and its production in Zaragoza, Spain, alongside the Opel Corsa is under evaluation. The Spanish plant has been home of Opel’s B-segment icon since 1982.
