Opel Automobile GmbH stands as one of Germany's oldest and most recognized automotive manufacturers. Adam Opel founded the company in 1862 in Rüsselsheim am Main, initially producing sewing machines.
The company employs approximately 5,793 people and serves millions of customers across Europe. Opel maintains a strong presence in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain.
Headquartered in Rüsselsheim am Main, Hesse, Opel operates as part of the Stellantis group. The brand continues to innovate with its electrification strategy targeting full electric offerings by 2028.
About Opel
Sector
Automotive
Industry
Automobile Manufacturing
CEO
Florian Huettl
Website
Headquarters
Rüsselsheim, Germany
Founded
1862
Status
Subsidiary of Stellantis N.V.
Opel Founders
Adam Opel
Founder
Opel History
1862
Adam Opel establishes the company in Rüsselsheim, Germany, manufacturing sewing machines.
1899
Opel transitions from bicycles to automobile production, entering the automotive industry.
1929
General Motors acquires Opel, making it the largest car manufacturer in Germany at the time.
2017
PSA Group purchases Opel from General Motors, returning the brand to European ownership.
2021
Opel becomes part of Stellantis following the merger between PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler.
FAQs
Who owns Opel?
Stellantis N.V. owns Opel since January 2021. Stellantis formed through the merger of PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. PSA had previously acquired Opel from General Motors in 2017.
When did Opel come out?
Adam Opel founded the company in 1862 in Rüsselsheim, Germany. The company initially produced sewing machines, then bicycles. Opel manufactured its first automobile in 1899.
Is Opel an American company?
No, Opel is a German company headquartered in Rüsselsheim am Main, Germany. General Motors owned Opel from 1929 to 2017, but the brand always maintained its German identity and European operations.
Who made Opel logo?
The Opel logo evolved through multiple iterations since 1862. The current lightning bolt design, known as the Blitz, emerged in the 1960s. It symbolizes speed, precision, and German engineering excellence.