Opel to bring back OPC designations for EVs

Opel used to offer a number of performance-oriented models a while ago under the OPC badge, including Meriva and Zafira vans, Astra and Corsa hatchbacks, and Insignia sedans, wagons and hot hatches. None of the above is on the market right now, but the German company intends to fix it.

The OPC badge will return, but solely as a designation of a high-performance electric car. The upcoming Opel Mokka-e SUV (shown in the attached video) will be the first to benefit from this. Its right-hand-drive cousin, the Vauxhall Mokka-e, will get a similar version called VXR.

Neither will be particularly powerful: Opel believes that a single front-mounted motor rated at 136 PS (134 hp / 100 kW) and a battery sized 50 kWh will be just about enough. Sports-friendly modifications may still be made in steering, suspension and styling, including body kit, wheels and bucket seats.

The first “new OPC” model should debut in early 2022. Later on, all Corsa, Vivaro/Zafira Life and Astra models will get OPC counterparts. The Astra should switch generations later this year, and rumor has it that it will be available in a hybrid form with 300 PS (296 hp / 221 kW) at its disposal.