1970s design meets current EV tech.
The Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD is known by its full name. It retains much of the original design, but has LED headlights to reflect the latest Vizor front end design language. This look was already applied to the Mokka and Crossland. The next-generation Astra will soon adopt the new corporate design. Opel is trying to pay homage to the Manta by releasing technical specifications. However, Opel expects the electric motor will drive the rear wheels. The German automaker is not making a first attempt at an electric sports coupe. In fact, the Elektro-GT (pictured above) was a 50-year-old early attempt at a performance vehicle that eschewed the ICE.
Manta restomod’s “Elektro” suffix was inspired by Opel’s first electric car. It reached 62 mph (100 km/h), in six seconds, thanks to two electric motors that each produced 118 horsepower. The Elektro-GT’s nickel-cadmium battery could provide 27 miles (44 km) of range when it was driven at a constant speed 62 mph (100 km/h). In May 1971, the Elektro-GT set six new speed records for EVs.
The company plans to electrify all models between now and 2024. Already, the Corsa-e and Combo-e, Zafira-e and Vivaro-e have all been electrified. Opel will soon unveil the Manta GSe ElektroMOD, which is now under the Stellantis banner.
Stellantis is not the only brand it owns. Peugeot, another of its brands, took a similar approach to Opel and created the stunning . The concept was introduced in October 2018 and is an EV equivalent to the Pininfarina-designed 504 Coupe.