Company overview
Opel Automobile GmbH, headquartered in Rüsselsheim am Main, Germany, began as a sewing machine manufacturer founded by Adam Opel in 1862. Initially producing bicycles, the company transitioned to automobile production in 1899 with its first model. Throughout the early 20th century, Opel played a significant role in pioneering rocket technology under Fritz von Opel, achieving world speed records and contributing to the early development of spaceflight. From 1929 until 2017, General Motors owned Opel, and later, PSA Group acquired the brand before Stellantis formed in 2021. For many years, Opel vehicles were marketed as Vauxhall in the United Kingdom and produced under various brands – Holden in Australia, Buick and Cadillac in North America and China, and Chevrolet in South America – reflecting GM’s European operations. Opel's production peaked in 1937, becoming Europe's largest automobile manufacturer. During World War II, Opel became a major tank producer for Germany, utilizing forced labor and contributing to the Holocaust through vehicle use. Following the war, Opel rebuilt its Rüsselsheim plant and continued to produce trucks, including the Blitz. In the 1970s and 80s, Opel and Vauxhall were integrated into a single European range. The company’s history reflects significant shifts in ownership and branding, adapting to changing market conditions and global strategies.
