PRESS RELEASE
NEW GERMAN BRAND TO LAUNCH WITH FULLY ELECTRIFIED CLEAN CAR OPTIONS FOR NZ MOTORISTS
The arrival of the Clean Car legislation has proven to be particularly timely for a new entrant in the automotive sector, with German brand Opel launching in New Zealand featuring a fully electrified portfolio of new vehicle options.
All models in the marque’s lineup will be available with an electric powertrain, either a plug-in hybrid system or full electric offering, meaning the new vehicles qualify for significant rebates under the Clean Car scheme.
“Opel is modern German, it’s fully electrified and it’s coming to New Zealand,” said Tom Ruddenklau, General Manager of Opel New Zealand.
“The brand has committed to New Zealand and is committed to delivering a premium electrified product at a mainstream price.
“It is a highly regarded German automotive marque with a history stretching back more than 100 years. It has identified New Zealand as a market with outstanding opportunity, thanks in considerable part to the bold initiatives undertaken with regards to Clean Car policy.”
The Opel new model portfolio, renowned for featuring minimalist but statement making design cues, will initially consist of four nameplates.
These are Corsa (small hatch city car), Mokka (small SUV) and Grandland (mid-size SUV), with a fourth model, the medium-size Astra hatch, to debut in January of next year.
Opel will be imported and distributed in New Zealand by Automotive Distributors NZ (ADNZ), which is part of the highly successful and growing Armstrong Motor Group. Since ADNZ’s formation five years ago, the team has established significant global credibility with Stellantis Automotive, the parent company of Opel.
“Of the multiple individual markets I have responsibility for, the team in New Zealand constantly impress us with their professionalism and ambition,’’ said Billy Haynes, Head of ASEAN Markets for Stellantis Automotive.
“’The team at ADNZ constantly punch above their weight and we are excited by the potential of Opel in the New Zealand market.”
More details regarding the Opel dealer network will be made in coming weeks, with new model pricing information to follow in May and the first new Opel models will land in New Zealand early in the second half of the year.
“Opel is here to present a very real and viable alternative to Kiwis who desire an electrified
motoring future,” said Mr Ruddenklau. “It’s an incredibly exciting time to bring a new brand to market at such a significant moment in our Clean Car journey.”
If new car owners aren’t quite ready for the shift to electrified motoring, then all Opel petrol-powered models for sale in New Zealand will also receive a rebate under the Clean Car programme, thanks to their low carbon emissions.
“Opel has a huge opportunity to help New Zealand embrace an electrified future and we can’t wait to introduce the new model lineup, instill confidence in our product and bring even more options to Kiwi motorists,” said Mr Ruddenklau.
