Vauxhall's concept design, inspired by manta rays, signals a glimpse into the future of their GSe lineup.
The British automotive brand, Vauxhall, is set to showcase a new performance EV concept that takes inspiration from motorsport icons of the past. The Vauxhall GSe performance EV concept boasts a retro-futuristic design language, drawing heavily from the Opel Manta 400 rally car[1][3].
Key anticipated features include:
- Motorsport-derived interior: Prepare for a racing-inspired cabin with a slim racing steering wheel, lightweight bucket seats with racing harnesses, and a prominent roll cage, all designed for track use[1][3].
- Aerodynamic and visual design: The concept car features sharp triangular details, flared arches, aerodynamic alloy wheels, and a combination of a large rear wing with a pronounced diffuser, reflecting a racing lineage[1][2][5].
- Performance focus: While specific powertrain details for the Vauxhall concept are not yet disclosed, it is expected to push the boundaries of battery-electric performance vehicles, suggesting radical upgrades beyond current GSe models like the Mokka GSe with 276bhp[1]. The goal is to deliver a thrilling yet safe and comfortable driving experience on the racing track[1].
- Design cues for production: Some elements from the concept, especially its lighting design and triangular motifs, are likely to preview the next generation of Vauxhall’s production models. Significantly, the concept could form the design and technical basis for the next-generation Vauxhall Corsa, due around 2026, and expected to incorporate strong GSe performance DNA[3].
- Sustainability: Innovative materials such as a flax-derived carbon-fiber-like composite for certain body panels hint at a strong sustainability focus[5].
The Opel Corsa GSe Vision GT concept, a sister brand to Vauxhall, showcases extreme performance with dual electric motors, an 82 kWh battery pack, and advanced aerodynamic features. However, it is noted as a design and engineering showcase for virtual racing and not a direct production model[2][5]. The next Corsa production model will likely draw from such concepts but with a more conventional, practical design suited to road use[2].
In summary, the Vauxhall GSe concept vehicle blends historic motorsport heritage with future-focused EV performance and design innovations, serving as a clear performance halo and design exploration that will influence imminent production models, particularly the Vauxhall Corsa[1][3][5]. The GSe sub-brand was relaunched in July as a badge for performance-honed versions of Vauxhall's EVs. Stay tuned for more updates as Vauxhall continues to push the boundaries of electric performance vehicles.
[1] Autocar.com. (2023). Vauxhall GSe performance EV concept unveiled. [online] Available at: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/vauxhall-gse-performance-ev-concept-unveiled
[2] Carscoops.com. (2023). Opel Corsa GSe Vision GT Concept – a wild, 789-hp electric performance car for virtual racing. [online] Available at: https://www.carscoops.com/2023/02/opel-corsa-gse-vision-gt-concept-a-wild-789-hp-electric-performance-car-for-virtual-racing/
[3] Carbuyer.co.uk. (2023). Vauxhall Corsa GSe to preview new-generation model. [online] Available at: https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/news/vauxhall-corsa-gse-to-preview-new-generation-model
[4] Carbuyer.co.uk. (2023). Vauxhall GSe performance sub-brand explained. [online] Available at: https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/vauxhall/news/vauxhall-gse-performance-sub-brand-explained
[5] GreenCarReports.com. (2023). Vauxhall GSe Vision concept previews electric performance future. [online] Available at: https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1143511_vauxhall-gse-vision-concept-previews-electric-performance-future
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