Opel Vivaro, Blitz medium van, turns 20

Exactly 20 years ago, in the fall of 2000, Opel introduced Frankfurt Motor Show new Vivaro that followed we cooperate between House Blitz and Renault, started with the previous Arena, but only produced for three years. It is based on the second generation Trafic model, which is more functional and modern, with interesting features for a commercial vehicle, including increased attention to comfort and handling.

In fact, like the French twin, the first Vivaro (with internal signature Vivaro A) distinguished himself by original Jumbo Roof, rounded raised roof offering more room for taller drivers and improved tuning suspension and steering.

Truly multiruolo

The scope of use of covered transport merci e people short and medium range due to the large number of bodies, from van to van combined double cab for minibus to the floor of the cab for adjustment, with different wheelbase sizes and different loading platform heights, made directly by the manufacturer or by specialized installers.

At the start with two 1.9

In terms of engines, the initial lineup consisted of two tried and tested options. 1.9 Renault, 1.870cc four-cylinder Common Rail engine. In 82, a 101-liter petrol engine with 5 hp appeared, and in 6 the diesel offer was supplemented by a 2002-horsepower 2. The following year, the Common Rail system debuted on three turbodiesels, renamed CDTI.

Immediately awarded

Original lines, ease of handling, efficient engines and low operating costs ensure that just one year after its launch in early 2001, Vivaro was elected "International Van of the Year" by a jury that rated the last 10 category within 3,5 tonnes. including load tests at 3/4 of the maximum load capacity (which can reach 1.200 kg with a usable volume of up to 6 cubic meters on the most spacious models). The award was added to others received in Denmark and Ireland, as well as in the UK for the Vauxhall branded variant.

New motors and battery-powered concept

In 2006, a general update, accompanied by a minor facelift, brought the engines to Euro 4, replacing the 1.9 engines with more recent ones. 2.0 to 90 and 114 l.while the 2.5 CDTI is increased to 147 hp. At the same time, Opel began to explore the electric option, which led to the birth of Vivaro electronic concept.

This, presented in Hannover in 2010, already anticipated some of the features of future electric models of the series, even if it was an electric "range extender", that is also equipped with an inboard combustion engine that acted as generator... At the same time, 100 km of autonomy, guaranteed by a battery, were added. others 300... The electric drive had a power of 111 kW, a payload of 750 kg.

Transmission: Vivaro B

In August 2014, after more than 12 years of career, Vivaro A was replaced by second generation, again associated with the updated Renault Trafic: the interior line has become more traditional, without the characteristic "giant roof", and the design has become angular with accentuated headlights and a radiator grill.

New model, new common rail turbo diesel engines, this time with a reduced displacement only 1,6 liters but power 90 or 116 CV and even 120 o 140 CV on BiTurbo versions with supercharging double stage... This is the least long-lived generation, because hardly 4 years laterIn 2018, Opel left General Motors' orbit (to which it had belonged since 1920) to become part of the PSA group, which entrusted the Russelsheim Technical Center to immediately begin developing the next series on its modular platform. EMP2.

And we are today

The rest is recent history, indeed very recent: in the first months of 2019, it arrived. Vivaro S, a member of a new family of mid-size engines built on a light and efficient platform and equipped with new 1,5- and 2-liter turbodiesels, 5 variants in total with power included. from 102 to 177 hp and the new automatic transmission A Reports 8 for the strongest, cooperating with specialists Dangel also made available all-wheel drive.

The body assortment remained extensive, with one or two cab or passenger van options. 2 steps of measure and 3 different lengths. And a few weeks ago, the first version was finally released. 100% electric, Vivaro-e, with a 100 kW engine and range from 220 to over 300 km.