Opel Experimental EV Crossover Concept has '4D' Opel Vizor, Not Much Mojo Otherwise

This is quite sad, indeed, because I actually like Opel and what they are doing lately – making the best of their shared assets with the rest of the Stellantis lot and giving their models a signature style. The French-Italian-American conglomerate has many brands under its belt, but unfortunately, Opel is not one of their biggest stars.

They don't shine too often under the spotlight because they're doing that thing called 'German efficiency' – they are making honest vehicles that sell well but usually don't stand out too much. That was entirely true until Opel innovated the design space with what they call the 'Opel Vizor,' giving a fresh appearance to their model lines.

Now, without much fanfare, they are ready to continue along that line with an even clearer "vision of the brand's future." As per teasers, Opel released the first images and information related to the 'Experimental' concept car, the prototype destined to shape all the German brand's future models – and a vehicle that was promised with insane design cues during the initial promotional campaign.

Although it's not a disappointment per se, the truth about this crossover SUV with zero emissions is not that enticing, either. It's shaped like any other coupe-CUV out there, albeit with an emphasis on sporty proportions with a wide appearance and massive wheels and promises highlights like "cutting-edge aero-efficiency features, (…) a spacious, illuminated interior with lightweight seats and next-level head-up display."

Sure, the Opel Experimental will be featured at an automotive event – the public world premiere is set for the 2023 IAA Mobility in Munich (September 5-10), where it will bring "a state-of-the-art Stellantis BEV platform," which is probably the company's STLA. Opel is also bragging about having a 4D Opel Vizor now, which is actually the regular one with an extra layer of technology that accommodates "the advanced sight technologies:" sensors, LIDAR, radar, and camera systems.

Inside, the compact Opel Experimental boasts D-segment space aided by the presence of a fold-away steering wheel – a feature made possible by "the steer-by-wire system, which further reduces weight by eliminating mechanical steering components." There are also electrochromic fabrics designed to "immerse occupants in atmospheric light," and the dashboard is composed of a slim 'Tech Bridge' instead of the Pure Panels seen in current Opel models, plus a 'floating,' transparent Pure Pad located just ahead of the central front armrest.

Basically, instead of conventional displays, the car presents the necessary road information or entertainment features via augmented reality projection technology supported by artificial intelligence and natural voice control. Most likely, the first model previewed by this compact EV CUV is the upcoming fully electric Opel Grandland crossover sitting on the STLA Medium platform.