100,000th Astra Sports Tourer Produced at Vauxhall's Ellesmere Port Plant

Another milestone for the Luton carmaker, as the 100,000th Astra Sports Tourer left the production line at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port Plant in Cheshire (UK) today. This is the only place where the ST model is built, and from here the estates are shipped to the the whole of Europe and to countries such as Chile, Israel and South Africa. (yes, that means Opels as well)

Since its launch end of September 2010, the Astra Sports Tourer has proven to be successful in the UK market and abroad. After only 9 months, 6,316 Vauxhall Sports Tourers were sold in the UK market where the model was by far in its class overall for the first half of this year. In the same period, 29,622 Sports Tourers were sold in Germany, historically a strong estate market and also the largest market for the Sports Tourer.

Today, the 100,000th Astra Sports Tourer was driven off the line by Ellesmere Port’s longest serving employee, John Cooper, in the presence of local dignitaries, plus guests of honor and many of Vauxhall’s employees who were proud of their involvement with the Sports Tourer.

Since starting at the plant in 1967, John, who is also a valued union official, has worked as a production operator on various stations and starting up the engine of such a significant milestone was not without emotions for the elderly employee.

“I am extremely proud and honored to be chosen to accompany our 100 000th Sports Tourer as it leaves our plant and presents itself to the world,” says John. “It is a great car with a confident and elegant ride and great looks. I am looking forward to sending many more to future Vauxhall customers and customers all over the world.”