Opel is blending classic looks with cutting edge tech with its Manta GSe ElektroMOD and has revealed full specifications for the retro EV coupe.
The classic Manta A Opel selected for the project was in need of revival and has had its four-cylinder combustion engine replaced with a 145bhp electric motor. This sends power to the rear wheels through the car’s original four-speed manual gearbox, so it can be driven as a manual or, thanks to the 255Nm of torque, drivers can leave the automobile in fourth gear and use it as a single-speed vehicle like many other electric cars.
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The Manta is powered by a 31kWh battery for a claimed range of 124 miles, while an on-board 9kW charger means a full charge takes four hours. Brake regeneration means the Manta will recoup energy when slowing down that would have otherwise been wasted.
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This is the most powerful Manta A ever, with the ‘e’ in the GSe’s tag standing for electrification. The restored car’s look reflects this new digital focus, as the Manta sports a ‘Pixel Visor’ front grille. This is an evolution of Opel-Vauxhall’s Visor grille that features on the brands’ Mokka compact SUV, only here the digital panel can display different messages and graphics.
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The LED screen can show messages such as “I am on a zero e-mission” with an animated depiction of a manta ray floating across the panel, which is flanked by a familiar pair of LED running lights. The 3D tail-lights use LED technology too, paying homage to the original car’s lights.