Opel is bringing back the Manta nameplate with a strong contemporary twist: an all-electric powertrain and a smart screen integrated in the front end that can display various messages or logos.

Details are basically non-existent, but Opel tells us that the car “is getting its final touches in Russelsheim” as we speak, with a debut coming on May 19.

We believe that when it debuts, the Manta GSe ElektroMOD will pack the same powertrain as the all-electric Opel Mokka-e: a 100-kW (134 horsepower) electric motor and a 50-kWh Lithium-ion battery pack. The Mokka-e needs nine seconds for the 0-62 (100 kph) sprint, but we expect the Mantra to be quicker courtesy of a lighter build. Top speed should be around 150 mph (240 kph).

2021 Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD specifications

“The Manta GSe ElektroMOD is the work of passionate designers, 3D modelers, engineers, technicians, mechanics, product and brand experts. All Opel fans through and through who love cars and have fun developing new things.”

Design-wise, we dig the muscle car proportions and shapes but other than those, Opel is trumpeting the addition of the Pixel-Visor, basically a screen that stretches across the entire width of the front end.

The screen can display messages such as “My German heart has been ELEKTRified” or “I am on a zero e-mission” or “I am an ElektroMOD.” What’s more, Opel also promises a fully-digital cockpit for the electric Manta.

The original Opel Manta debuted in September 1970 with a 60-horsepower, 1.2-liter gasoline engine. Then came the Manta GT/E and its 105-horsepower, 1.9-liter engine fitted with Bosch injection.

Five years after the Manta A was introduced, Opel launched the Manta B with engines that varied from 1.2 to 2.4 liters and outputs between 55 to 144 horsepower in the Manta B 400.