Opel's rally evolution and the introduction of Mokka GSE

Learn how Opel and ADAC developed their rally program from early decades to the electric Mokka GSE Rally introduction, with key milestones and historical context.

The history of Opel’s rally programs spans several decades, forming the foundation that now leads the brand into the era of electric rallying. Opel’s involvement began in the 1960s, when the company first supported private teams and entered international stages with models such as the Kadett and Rekord. A more structured factory-backed program emerged in the 1970s, marked by the arrival of the Ascona A and the Kadett GT/E, as the team steadily strengthened its position in European competitions.

The early period reached its peak in 1982, when driver Walter Röhrl and the Opel Ascona 400 secured the world rally championship title, establishing Opel within WRC history. During the Group B era, the brand introduced the Manta 400, a model that left a lasting impression in European championships, although Opel gradually reduced its worldwide involvement following regulatory changes.

During the 2000s, Opel reestablished its rally presence through one-make series and programs aimed at supporting young drivers. The introduction of the Adam Cup and the development of the Corsa as a competitive platform demonstrated the brand’s commitment not only to motorsport participation but also to cultivating new generations of talent across Europe.

A historic shift came in 2021, when Opel and ADAC launched the world’s first all-electric one-make rally series: the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe”. The fully electric Corsa Rally Electric proved that sustainable technology can handle the demands of real rally stages, and the series quickly grew into a proving ground for emerging drivers who later advanced to international competitions.

Today, the project is entering a new phase. Opel and ADAC have renamed the series to ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup and confirmed that, beginning with the 2026 season, competitors will drive the Opel Mokka GSE Rally. As the first car developed according to FIA eRally5 regulations, it delivers significantly higher performance than its predecessor. Experience gained with the Corsa Rally Electric helped shape new engineering solutions, including revised suspension, updated software tuning and reinforced drivetrain components. Maintaining high safety standards, the series continues to serve as a launchpad for young talent.

Beyond the sporting aspect, Opel is also expanding its commitment to infrastructure. The mobile charging system developed by eLoaded draws energy from the public grid without generators, underlining the brand’s and ADAC’s efforts to promote a sustainable model for electric rallying. As interest in eco-friendly motorsport grows, this integrated approach positions the project as one of the most impactful in Europe.