Opel has designs on 'one-euro car'

"One Euro” refers to Opel’s claim that the car can cover 100 kilometers (62 miles) for one euro ($1.41). The car has a range of 60 miles and a top speed of 75 mph. Other features include lightness; this city vehicle is one-third the weight of a modern small car, says Opel. Euro One is also promoted as quite the energy-efficient vehicle, as energy requirements would be ten times lower than those of a modern small car.

Opel's press statement, which notes the "tandem two-seater has production potential," suggests that the company is banking on the car as a way to promote the company's strengths in electric cars. "The concept opens a new chapter in electric mobility and extends Opel’s pioneering role in alternative propulsion systems." The car's interesting design features tandem seats of one behind the other. Overall, it is a futuristic design that will appeal to drivers who are young or just young at heart. Opel says the concept’s look is inspired by the Opel Ampera, an electric hybrid car.

While the design may appeal to drivers of all ages, Opel stated that the car was created mainly for young drivers looking for something affordable and stylish. Opel is also talking about a low-speed version for 16-year olds, who would drive with a restricted maximum speed of 28 mph.

More details about the Opel car are expected during the Frankfurt Motor Show, to run from September 15 to 25. Placing the Opel announcement in perspective, the Euro One will take its place among a growing breed of micro cars designed for efficiency in cities. Making headway in electric cars would be beneficial for Opel, which has experienced losses. Earlier in June there were reports that its owner, General Motors, was thinking about selling Opel but the stories were dismissed.

Germany-based Opel is a well known brand in Europe, but it is not yet clear if this concept car would make it to the U.S. According to a June report in TheDetroitBureau.com, titled "Will Opel Return to the U.S.?" a senior executive with the General Motors subsidiary said that he saw an opportunity to sell Opel’s fuel-efficient small cars to increasingly mileage-sensitive American motorists.

More information: Press release

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