opel introduces streamlined electric car concept with foldable steering wheel

Opel Experimental EV Concept

Opel is offering a sneak peek into its future direction through the debut of the Opel Experimental concept. This upcoming electric vehicle (EV) has several notable features, including a special aerodynamic design, a spacious and well-lit interior with lightweight seating, a foldable steering wheel, and a modern display for essential information. Its bold and clean design features a tapering shape and smooth surfaces, making it quite distinct. This electric crossover car will be shown for the first time at an event called IAA Mobility in Munich from September 5 to 10, 2023, where Opel will present its visions for environmentally friendly personal transportation.

‘Our new Opel Experimental gives a more extreme interpretation of our Bold and Pure design philosophy. It gives shape to our vision of the future. Many of the elements of its design and the mindset behind it will be visible in future production vehicles. The exterior design delivers an optimised aerodynamic performance in combination with a stunning silhouette while the interior offers an immersive and emotional user experience,’ says Mark Adams, Vice President Design of Opel.

all images by Opel

design innovations of the new Opel concept car

One thing that you can easily spot is the absence of chrome. Instead, the team has added exterior lights and strong contrasting graphics to make it look more stylish and refined. The car is an electric crossover with efficient technology, using a Stellantis BEV platform and having electric all-wheel drive. They’ve replaced regular side mirrors with 180-degree cameras on the C-pillars, and the sharp wheel arches give it a confident look.

At the front of the car, there’s the bright Opel logo in the middle of their signature design shape, called the Opel Compass. There are long lights on the sides, and a lit-up line down the center adds more style. The same look is repeated at the back with special brake lights that make a compass shape using modern lighting technology. Instead of the Blitz logo, there’s big Opel lettering in the center. Around the front compass, there’s the new 4D Opel Vizor, which has extra technology like sensors, cameras, and radar to help the car see better.

the Opel Experimental features a tapering shape and smooth surfaces

The Opel Experimental looks smooth and it’s designed to be very space-efficient. There are special flaps at the front and back that help it move through the air better. The back part can change shape depending on how the car is being driven. The tires, made with the help of Goodyear, are made from recycled rubber and the wheels are designed to make the car even more streamlined.

Even though the Opel Experimental is compact on the outside, the inside feels spacious, like a bigger car. The design team managed to make more room inside by organizing the space. The steering wheel can fold away when users don’t need it, thanks to a system that controls the steering electronically. This also makes the car lighter. The seats are light too, and they’re made with strong materials.

the regular side mirrors are replaced by 180-degree cameras on the C-pillar

Drivers can set up the info they want on a slim Tech Bridge, a new version of the Pure Panel used in Opel cars. Instead of regular screens, it uses special technology to show info and entertainment, guided by AI and voice commands.

Right in front of the armrest, there’s a clear Pure Pad that looks like it’s floating. Drivers can set it up how they like, so they can quickly use the things they need the most. The special fabrics inside the car change color to create a relaxing atmosphere, and they can also give useful information. For example, if a car is in the blind spot, a warning shows up on the door and on the display in front of the driver, making things safer.