15.4.2003
Production of Astra planned for Opel Gliwice plant in fall

In addition to the Agila, which has been produced in Gliwice since February 2000, start of Astra production at is planned for the third quarter of this year.

Start of Astra production at Opel Polska's Gliwice plant is planned for the third quarter this year. This coincides with GM's other Astra plants transitioning to the new Astra. For sale in Poland and other Central European markets, approximately 40,000 Astras will be produced in Gliwice annually.

Romuald Rytwi_ski, Managing Director, GM Poland and Opel Polska, said: "This decision is a major step forward in the development of the Opel Polska Plant. The second model will enable us to fully utilize both our production capability and the high quality skills of our employees."

GME President Mike Burns commented: "The decision to add production of the current Astra to Gliwice is a very logical one. We know from experience that a locally produced Astra is an affordable and successful addition to our portfolio in Central Europe. The flexibility, productivity and quality levels demonstrated at the Opel Polska plant are an excellent basis for increased capacity utilization going forward."

The Opel Polska plant in Gliwice is the sole producer of the Opel Agila. Last year over 85,000 cars were produced of which 95% were exported to major European countries as well as to China.