Opel launches the new Combo cargo van
OPEL has announced the 5th generation of its compact, multifunctional commercial vehicle, the Combo.
The new Combo cargo van has been developed with the ambition of offering top efficiency to professionals and the lowest cost of ownership in the segment thanks to an all-new architecture, ingenious packaging and unique technologies while simultaneously representing a huge leap compared to outgoing version.
With its world premiere at the IAA Commercial Vehicles in Hannover on September 19, 2018, and available to order from September, the new Combo offers a wide range of variants to choose from including a short version with 4.40 metres length, a long version with 4.75 metres, both with cabins featuring two or three front seats, and a spacious five seater crew cab. Opel’s new compact transporter also outshines most of its main competitors with a load volume of up to 4.4m3, a payload of up to 1,000 kg and a loading length of up to 3,440 mm for objects and work material. An especially ingenious feature is that the distance between the two wheel arches is wide enough to enable the loading of Euro pallets, two of which can even be accommodated in the cargo space of the short version of the Combo, plus oversized materials such as wooden planks can be stowed at an angle thanks to the optional roof hatch.
A unique feature in the segment is also introduced in the new generation Opel Combo: a sensor-based overload indicator that, at a press of a button, allows the driver to make sure the vehicle is not overloaded. The system automatically measures the mass present on board upon starting up the engine. Alternatively, the driver can ask for the sensor-based system to measure the load on the axles by pressing a button. A white LED signal lights up if the weight exceeds 80 per cent of the permitted payload. If the weight is above the limit, an orange signal with an exclamation mark lights up.
In addition, the new Combo comes with further innovative technologies and up to 19 assistance systems that make driving, manoeuvring, transporting goods or a crew easier, safer and more comfortable. The optional Permanent Rear View Camera1, acts as a “digital” rear view mirror - greatly improving visibility of panel vans or of fully loaded vehicles. Furthermore, a second camera in the exterior door mirror on the passenger side ensures that the driver no longer needs to worry about the blind spot on this side of the vehicle. The new Combo can also be equipped with the new, sensor-based Flank Guard system that helps prevent annoying and expensive bumps or scratches when turning at low speeds, warning the driver when there is a risk that a flank of the car will collide with an obstacle. For those professionals working in conditions which may require enhanced traction in mud, sand or snow, they can also upgrade their front-wheel drive Combo with the electronic IntelliGrip traction control system and the “worksite” setup. This includes an increased ground clearance of 30 mm, front and rear stiffness antiroll bars, increased tyre diameter and rear variable rate springs. And the optional ultra-modern Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment systems ensure that drivers easily find their way to and from even the most remote locations.
‘ The Opel Combo is the ideal working companion and almost no job is too big for it thanks to its best-in-class load volume. In addition, it comes with ultra-modern technologies previously only known from the passenger car segment. This make the Combo a commercial vehicle with proven passenger car qualities in terms of driver assistance, safety and comfort – an all-rounder in the best sense of the word,’ said Managing Director Sales & Marketing Peter Küspert.