Given the location conditions, Opel boss Florian Huettl does not believe the production of cheap electric cars in Germany is feasible. “We cannot build electric cars in Germany that cost between 25,000 and 30,000 euros,” Huettl told the “Augsburger Allgemeine”. This is not possible with German wage and energy costs.
In order to remain competitive, Opel produces cheaper models such as Corsa and Frontera at cheaper locations abroad. Huettl called for a new edition of the state purchase bonus and investments in charging infrastructure in order to stimulate the stagnating German market for electric cars. Huettl does not see the German locations at risk. At the same time, the Opel boss announced that the planned new edition of the cult model Manta as an electric car would be delayed. The premiere, originally planned for 2025, will “take even longer,” he said, without giving a specific date.
Opel’s parent company Stellantis, which also includes Peugeot, Citroën and Fiat, reported a 27 percent drop in sales to 33 billion euros for the third quarter.
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**Interview with Florian Huettl, CEO of Opel**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Florian. You’ve recently made headlines with your comments about the feasibility of producing affordable electric cars in Germany. Can you explain your perspective on this issue?
**Florian Huettl:** Thank you for having me. As I mentioned in my interview with the “Augsburger Allgemeine,” the current wage and energy costs in Germany make it incredibly challenging to produce electric vehicles priced between 25,000 and 30,000 euros. Right now, it’s simply not feasible without compromising quality or profitability.
**Interviewer:** That’s a significant viewpoint. So, what is Opel’s strategy in response to these challenges?
**Florian Huettl:** To remain competitive, we’re focusing on producing our more budget-friendly models, like the Corsa and Frontera, at locations where production costs are lower. This allows us to maintain our market presence without sacrificing our commitment to quality.
**Interviewer:** You also mentioned the need for a revival of the state purchase bonus and improvements in charging infrastructure. Why do you think these steps are necessary for the German electric vehicle market?
**Florian Huettl:** The German electric vehicle market has been stagnating. By reinstituting the purchase bonus and investing more in charging infrastructure, we believe we can stimulate demand and encourage consumers to transition to electric vehicles more readily.
**Interviewer:** What about the iconic Manta? You indicated that its electric version has been delayed. Can you shed some light on that?
**Florian Huettl:** Yes, unfortunately, the launch of the new electric Manta will take longer than we initially anticipated. I can’t provide a specific timing at this moment, but we’re committed to delivering a product that meets our customers’ expectations while navigating the complexities of production.
**Interviewer:** with Stellantis reporting a significant drop in sales, what are your thoughts on the future outlook for Opel and its subsidiaries?
**Florian Huettl:** While the recent decline in sales is concerning, we’re focusing on strategies that will position us well in the long term. Our commitment to electric vehicles and innovation, combined with strategic partnerships and cost management, will help us stabilize and grow in this shifting market.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Florian. It will be interesting to see how Opel navigates these challenges moving forward.
**Florian Huettl:** Thank you for having me. We’re optimistic about the future and look forward to bringing exciting new products to our customers.
