Opel Monza Concept



A light, athletic look outside, unique projection technology inside combined with custom connectivity and modular design that enables sustainable propulsion systems par excellence - the Opel Monza Concept is stylish, ultra-modern efficiency on four wheels. It is the role-model for the next generation of Opel cars. The groundbreaking concept car makes its world premiere at the 2013 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt and shows what people can expect from Opel in the future.



With the Opel Monza Concept, the designers in Mark Adams' team introduce a new interpretation of the sculptural design that first went into production with the Insignia. Selected distinctive lines, high-precision design and perfect sweeping contours remain the core of the evolving design philosophy called "Sculptural artistry meets German precision." But a new, athletic allure demonstrates the car's overall efficiency. "This is the next bold step along our journey into the future, but at the same time we show that we have established a consistent design in which people can build trust", says Mark Adams, Head of Opel Design.

The sculptural surfaces of the 4.69 meter-long, four seat Monza Concept are modeled after ocean waves lapping on the shore. These flowing surfaces give a look of lightness, dramatically underlined by the side-sills that taper off in front of the rear wheel arches. This unique styling element is inspired by the lean physique and slim waist of a greyhound dog, running as if on tip-toes with powerful elegance. The design of the Monza Concept's body sides enables easy entry and egress for front and rear-seat passengers, while underscoring the prominent, sporty rear wheel arches, which share the same width as the front.


The Opel Monza Concept's roof line is particularly sophisticated - at first it runs in a semicircular form like a classic coupé's, but then just before reaching the tailgate it sweeps slightly upwards. In spite of its sporty look and flat silhouette with a height of just 1.31 meters, there is neither loss of space in the luggage compartment - 500 liters in volume - nor constrained headroom for the passengers. This is due to the fact that the whole cockpit structure is around 15 centimeters lower than in conventional models. Actually, the Monza Concept offers the same airy passenger compartment as a mid-size car.

The Monza Concept continues innovating with state-of-the-art LED projection technology. Drivers no longer find the conventional individual, separate monitors that display different information; instead, they face a wide, sculpted dashboard that sweeps from door to door, and is used as a single projection surface. Information and decorative elements are displayed on the surface, which the driver can customize according to his needs, taste or mood. A total of 18 LED projectors create a continuous, adaptable multi-functional display. This is a world premiere in an automobile. Already established in the events arena, this technology has caused a sensation at major occasions such as Queen Elizabeth's Jubilee, and Opel designers were first to think of implementing it in a passenger car. The 3D graphics are impressive, and reflect all important functions from precise vehicle and driver information to internet and communication options as well as decorative elements. Both the area displaying information and the background can be individually configured, and operation is via voice control and steering wheel controls.

Efficiency and clarity are also priorities here: when it came to how the displays present information, Opel engineers focused on the best and most personal way to make relevant data available to the driver. The approach was "simplifying the multitude" and so details on the car, the navigation and the smartphone settings and connection only appear when necessary or desired. So drivers can use a wide range of information without being overwhelmed by text or images. This also makes the Monza Concept a model of future HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) systems, as its interior design is based on latest research findings in this field.


The Monza Concept is based on a modular design to allow highest-possible flexibility when selecting a propulsion system. A variety of sustainable powertrains based on increasing electrification of the automobile are conceivable. For the Monza Concept to be displayed at the Frankfurt show, engineers conceived an electric drive with a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) range extender - a further development of the Ampera's pioneering technology. The new-generation three-cylinder 1.0 SIDI turbo - which also makes its premiere at the IAA - takes over the task as range extender. But it does so with natural gas instead of gasoline, further improving the car's CO2 footprint. With its visionary approach, Opel continues to combine the potential of electric propulsion with the benefits of the internal combustion engine.