Opel/Vauxhall launch GSe electrified performance sub-brand
Opel and Vauxhall are introducing a new GSe sub-brand that will be used for top-of-the-range electrified performance models.
The GSe badge will denote range-topping models that combine sharper looks and handling with electrified powertrains
The moniker stands for Grand Sport Electric and will denote models that combine sharper looks and handling with electrified powertrains, including plug-in hybrids and fully electric editions.
This will support the brands’ plans to offer electrified versions of all their models by 2024 and only sell 100% electric vehicles in Europe from 2028.
A modern play on the GSi performance badge, the new initialism also revives the GSE ‘Grand Sport Einspritzung’ (Grand Sport Injection) label seen on the Opel Commodore GS/E and the Monza GSE and also used for the Manta GSe ElektroMod ‘restomod’ concept, which was revealed by Opel last year.
Opel CEO Florian Huettl explained: “I am very happy to announce the return of GSe as our top-of-the-range, sporty sub-brand in the immediate future. We have once again taken inspiration from our rich heritage – as we did for our new critically acclaimed bold and pure design – and given it a modern twist. In future, the label GSe will not only signify dynamic, fun to drive cars but also stand for ‘Grand Sport electric’, in full alignment with our ambitious plans to become a fully electric brand.”
Vauxhall’s acting MD James Taylor added: “Sitting atop the newly simplified Vauxhall range, the GSe name is both a nod to GSi performance models from our heritage as well being a complement to the GS versions in our line-up today.
“Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and GSe shows that performance and driving pleasure are set to be part of our electric future.”
The new badge has been teased in an image, but details of which models will get the GSe treatment first are yet to be revealed.
Opel and Vauxhall already offer electric versions of the Corsa, Mokka, Combo Life and Vivaro Life, with electric versions of the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer Electric due next year. These will share underpinnings with the Peugeot e-308 and e-308 SW revealed this week.
The Astra, Astra Sports Tourer and Grandland are also available as plug-in hybrids.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.