Opel showcases stunning Manta GSe elektromod

Opel is in the process of revealing a electrified, and modernised version of its iconic Manta model. 

The legendary Opel Manta is being transformed into an emission-free ElektroMOD with a modern face. Under the iconic coupe's black bonnet, the four-cylinder petrol engine makes way for a powerful electric motor. The “e” in GSe, of course, now stands for electrification.

The pure and classically beautiful neon yellow bodywork also gets a beaming smile from the latest LED technology. The original Manta with its geometric arrangement of headlights, radiator grille and “Blitz” lightning bolt emblem provided the inspiration for the new Opel face, called the Vizor, which has recently been implemented on the new Mokka and Crossland models. Now the Manta GSe itself bears this design in its most innovative implementation yet, called the Pixel-Vizor, essentially a digital screen that stretches the entire width of the front-end of the vehicle.

According to Opel, the Manta GSe can communicate with its environment across the entire surface. “My German heart has been ELEKTRified” is written across the new front. “I am on a zero e-mission”, “I am an ElektroMOD”, the GSe explains and in the next moment shows the silhouette of a Manta ray gliding over the Pixel-Vizor. The Opel designers had some fun with the legendary Manta logo and designed it in the form of a QR code. Next, the unmistakable trademark of the German manufacturer shines centrally, and two lightning bolts then spark out of the circle right into the stylish LED daytime running lights of the Vizor. 

“The Manta GSe ElektroMOD is the work of passionate designers, 3D modellers, engineers, technicians, mechanics, product and brand experts”, explains Pierre-Olivier Garcia, Opel Global Brand Design Manager, on behalf of the Manta GSe team. “All Opel fans through and through who love cars and have fun developing new things. With the Manta GSe, we are building a bridge from the great Opel tradition to a very desirable sustainable future. This mixture of zeitgeist and modern is absolutely fascinating.”

The Manta GSe ElektroMOD is a reminiscence of the Opel Manta A from 1970. At the same time, the car reflects the fascination of a growing fan community that transforms classics like the Manta into so-called RestoMods with modern technologies and new design. The purely battery-electric Manta GSe ElektroMOD with its fully digital cockpit is as sporty as a genuine Opel GSe and proudly bears its ambitions in its name. 

The idea of the Manta GSe was not born in a boardroom, but rather the initiative of a bunch of enthusiastic Opel designers. After many brainstorming sessions the plan was in place; and a suitable Manta A was found in the Opel Classic warehouse. From then on, everyone was gripped by pure car passion. So much enthusiasm immediately inspired the “Car Guys” in Opel management – and the idea of an extra-cool ElektroMOD became reality.

Currently, the new Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD is getting its final touches in Rüsselsheim. On May 19, 2021, the neo(n)-classic will then be presented in all its glory.