Opel has always been at the forefront of safety innovation in the automotive industry, with a long-standing commitment to providing vehicles that prioritize the well-being of their occupants. From the compact Corsa and Astra to the upcoming models of the new Frontera and Grandland, all modern Opel vehicles are electrified, emotional, and equipped for all daily tasks. One common feature across Opel’s range of passenger and light commercial vehicles is the incorporation of numerous state-of-the-art active and passive safety systems, ensuring a relaxed driving experience for all.
Safety has been a tradition at Opel, evident in their compliance with the latest EU regulations and their forward-thinking approach to vehicle safety. Opel has a history of surpassing legal requirements, as seen in their decision to equip all models with seat belts as early as 1973, three years before it became mandatory by law. In 1974, exactly 50 years ago, Opel showcased their visionary insight into future safety technology with the Opel Safety Vehicle (OSV) 40, a nearly production-ready study based on the Kadett C model.
The OSV 40 was designed to withstand a frontal impact at a speed of 40 miles per hour, demonstrating Opel’s dedication to achieving optimal passive safety even in compact vehicles. The vehicle excelled in crash tests, with the front absorbing energy efficiently and allowing all four doors to be opened without the need for special tools. The innovative use of polyurethane foam in the bumpers provided protection against impacts and deformations, while reinforced roof cross members and integrated seatbelt structures enhanced the stability of the passenger compartment.
Inside the OSV 40, every surface that could come into contact with occupants in the event of a collision was cushioned with a layer of polyurethane foam, emphasizing Opel’s commitment to passenger safety. The cockpit featured advanced safety features such as a central warning system monitoring 11 functions and additional lights signaling emergency braking. The vehicle also boasted adjustable headlights to prevent glare for oncoming vehicles and a split rearview mirror to minimize blind spots.
The impact of the OSV 40 was significant, influencing the development of subsequent Opel models and raising public awareness about vehicle safety. Today, Opel continues to prioritize safety in their latest generation of vehicles, such as the Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, which come equipped with a range of advanced assistance systems.
These include features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, speed limit recognition, driver fatigue detection, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. The Intelli-Drive system complements these assists with rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring, while the signature Opel Vizor grille can be upgraded to include adaptive Intelli-Lux LED® headlights with 168 elements.
To enhance the driving experience further, Opel offers an optional head-up display (Intelli-HUD) that projects essential information onto the windshield, ensuring that the driver can stay focused on the road ahead. With a comprehensive suite of safety features and cutting-edge technology, Opel vehicles continue to set the standard for modern vehicle safety and innovation.