An important step in electrification and collaboration with Leapmotor - May 8, 2026
- Opel as a pioneer: the new vehicle is expected to be the first product of the planned expanded collaboration
- Designed and developed in Rüsselsheim
- Planned production at the factory in Zaragoza, Spain
- Development time less than two years
With the anticipated expansion of the partnership between Stellantis and Leapmotor, the new vehicle is expected to serve as a model example of effective global collaboration. At the same time, it should enable the German manufacturer to make a significant strategic advance in the field of electrification and increase its business scope in the shortest possible time, with sales expected to start as early as 2028. The new Opel SUV in the C-segment will be available alongside the existing range of sports utility vehicles, which includes the Opel Grandland, Opel Frontera, and Opel Mokka.
“We are developing the new SUV at Opel's development center in Rüsselsheim, with international teams from Germany and China collaborating. The partnership with Leapmotor allows for an exceptionally short development time – less than two years,” emphasizes Opel's CEO Florian Huettl. “This is an important step towards faster availability of modern electric vehicles for a wider range of customers.”
Technologically, the new model will be based on advanced electric architecture and battery solutions from Leapmotor, which Opel will enhance with its own design approach, driving experience, chassis development, and advanced lighting and seating technologies.
The vehicle's production is planned in Europe, with Stellantis exploring the possibility of manufacturing it at its factory in Zaragoza, Spain, where the Opel Corsa has been produced for over four decades.
“With this project, Opel combines German engineering excellence with the global speed of technological innovation,” said Xavier Chéreau, Chairman of Opel's Supervisory Board and Director of Human Resources and Sustainability at Stellantis. “This innovative approach marks the next chapter of our global collaboration with Leapmotor, with Opel taking on a pioneering role in this project.”
The collaboration will further strengthen Opel's role as one of the key drivers of value creation and acceleration of electrification.
The partners are currently conducting feasibility studies and pre-development activities within the existing collaboration while continuing discussions about its potential expansion, pending the conclusion of final agreements and obtaining all necessary approvals.
