Interview with Opel CEO Florian Huettl: “Electrification is our future, despite temporary challenges”
What’s the news from Opel in 2025. What are you showing at the Brussels Motor Show?
“We present here three new models. First, the new Frontera, a large B-SUV now in production. It is a versatile, family-friendly car and offers excellent value for its price. We are also introducing an all-electric version for less than 29,000 euros, making the Frontera the most affordable electric Vauxhall. We are also showing the new Grandland, based on the Stellantis Medium platform, with a range of up to 700 kilometers. Finally, we have a facelift of the Mokka, our most forward-looking car.”
What does Opel stand for these days?
“Opel combines three core values. We are a German brand, which means you will find German product qualities such as handling, lighting and a clean, functional design language. Second, we fully embrace electrification and see it as an opportunity. Opel is the first German brand with an all-electric lineup. Third, we make things simple, from choosing and operating an Opel to cooperating with dealers. This combination of tradition, innovation and simplicity defines Opel today.”
Retro design is currently a trend in the automotive world. Is Opel also using this?
“We take inspiration from our history, but do not make retro cars. For example, our brand face, the Opel Vizor, is inspired by the original Manta from the 1960s, but translated into a modern design language. The same goes for the lighting signature and other design elements. We show respect for our heritage, but always focus on the future.”
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How does Opel position itself in relation to competitors, such as new Chinese car brands?
“Our biggest advantage is our rich history of 125 years. Models like the Corsa, which has been around for 42 years and is the best-selling small car in Germany four years in a row, show that we remain relevant. Our consistent design language and product quality offer something that brands without that history would find difficult to match.”
Opel wants to go all-electric in the next few years. Have you reconsidered this goal due to the dip in EV sales in Germany?
“No, electrification remains our future. We are determined to become an all-electric brand and operate carbon-neutral. Nevertheless, we see that the market in Germany did not grow as expected in 2024, partly due to the disappearance of subsidies. In other markets, such as France and the United Kingdom, we are already achieving 20% market share with electric vehicles. Our multi-energy platforms enable us to respond flexibly to market developments.”
How did Opel perform in Germany in 2024?
“We increased our market shares to 5.6%, up 0.3% from last year. While we are pleased with our overall performance, the share of electric vehicles is lower than planned. However, this remains a temporary challenge and we continue to build on our all-electric future.”
Also see: ALL HIGHLIGHTS – Brussels Motor Show 2025 – Brussels Motor Show – AutoRAI TV