Opel has reimagined its classic Manta coupe for the modern era as this, the Opel Manta GSe ElektroMod.
As the name suggests, the new Manta GSe is now all-electric, while the ‘e’ in its GSe nameplate “now stands for electrification,” according to Opel. The GSe is the latest in a line of restomod vehicles that have been converted with all-electric drivetrains, including the recently revealed EV versions of the Morgan 4/4 and Triumph Stag.
Vauxhall’s European sister brand hasn’t detailed powertrain specifics for the Manta GSe, but has declared that “the four-cylinder petrol engine makes way for a powerful electric motor” under the rescued Manta’s iconic black bonnet.
Key to the Manta GSe ElektroMOD’s design is Opel-Vauxhall’s latest ‘Vizor’ grille, which features on the brand’s new Mokka and Crossland SUVs. For the Manta this design treatment goes a step further, as it also includes a digital display - called ‘Pixel-Vizor’ - with the car’s LED running lights flanking a series of LEDs that give the car its “beaming smile.”
As a result Opel claims the Manta GSe ElektroMOD can communicate with its environment, with the press pictures showing the car bearing messages that include “I’m a zero e-mission” and “I’m an ElektroMOD”.
The Pixel-Vizor can also show moving images, with a depiction of a Manta ray gliding over the display. The revised Manta logo has been redesigned as a QR code by Opel’s designers too.
Despite the modern tech, the car’s proportions are instantly recognisable from the Opel Manta A that made its debut in 1970, albeit with that car’s trademark quad-headlight arrangement replaced by the Pixel-Vizor.
However, Opel also says that “At the same time, the car reflects the fascination of a growing fan community that transforms classics like the Manta into so-called RestoMods with modern technologies and new design.”
The Manta GSe ElektroMOD therefore sports a fully digital cockpit, making this a proper Opel GSe, according to the brand - although we’re yet to see any pictures of the interior.
Opel’s engineers found a suitable Manta A that needed reviving in the Opel Classic warehouse and set about converting it to a fully electric model, embarking on their “dream car project.” Along with the name and the new digital tech, which brings the Manta’s styling into the modern era, the neon green paintwork highlights the GSe ElektroMOD’s powertrain.
With other electric Vauxhall and Opel model’s using a 50kWh battery and a 134bhp electric motor, Opel could potentially double up on the propulsion system to give the Manta GSe sufficient power and torque to match the styling, although it hasn’t been confirmed.
According to Pierre-Olivier Garcia, Opel Global Brand Design Manager, “The Manta GSe ElektroMOD is the work of passionate designers, 3D modellers, engineers, technicians, mechanics, product and brand experts. All Opel fans through and through who love cars and have fun developing new things.
“With the Manta GSe, we are building a bridge from the great Opel tradition to a very desirable sustainable future. This mixture of zeitgeist and modern is absolutely fascinating.”
The car is undergoing final touches but will be unveiled in full and details revealed on 19th May.
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