2001 Opel Maxx

Founded on January 21, 1863, Adam Opel started Opel, which at first made household goods, mainly sewing machines. A German automaker, Opel began making automobiles in 1899. The Opel Company was acquired by GM in 1929 and today continues as a subsidiary. From this transaction, the Opel family gained $33.3 million dollars. Part of GM Europe, the Opel is GM's largest European brand, and along with Vauxhall Motors in the UK, they form GM's core European business.

Opel unveiled its latest city car concept at the Geneva Autoshow, named Maxx. Several drawings in the press release showcased various body styles, some even suggested a DTM racer. The following year, Opel released a new material about the running prototype, named the Maxx 2.

The Maxx 2 featured a new 973 cc three-cylinder ECOTEC engine that was capable of 37 kW (50 hp) at 5000 rpm. The maximum torque is 90 Nm at only 25000 rpm. Various interesting features were showcased on the structure of the lightweight unit, like 4-valves per cylinder and two hollowed overhead camshafts. These camshafts are 590 g lighter than the usual ones and are driven by chain, while a hydraulic gadget keeps the chain always tight.

An innovative and daring approach was begun by Adam Opel AG in designing its Opel Maxx compact car. The three-cylinder-engine-powered Maxx is made mostly of aluminum and composite materials, unlike the majority of automobiles. The configuration of the Maxx can be easily modified due to the fact that most of its panels are secured with screws and snap-locks.

Rather than a conventional steel body, the 1995 Opel Maxx had a stable light alloy structure that was constructed of extruded aluminum profiles like a cage that was visible from the outside. Ensuring exceptional flexibility, the form and dimensions of the profiles were variable. The idea behind the Opel Maxx was that rather than a basic two-door and two-seat version, Opel was able to create a four-door extended version with four or even six seats.

12.5 kg lighter than the current smallest Opel powertrain, the 1.2 liter from the Corsa, the Opel Maxx engine only weighs 82.5 kg. Two running models are currently featured by Opel, with bodies made of extruded aluminum panels that have been welded together to create the frame with the help of a rollbar that brings as much safety as the bigger models do. Additional safety features include twin-airbags, ABS, 3-point safety belts, and other various safety equipment.

The price of the Opel Maxx is its major disadvantage, as its special design and materials cost more than conventional automobile materials.

By Jessica Donaldson