The rain clouds hang low over the Triwo Testcenter. The Opel Mokka GSE Rally races out of the depression, sticks to the ground, disappears behind the next crest. Rally means: changing surfaces, hard braking zones, rapid changes of direction. This is exactly what can be simulated in Pferdsfeld – in a controlled, reproducible and safe way. That’s why Opel Motorsport has taken the next step towards homologation right here: on the way from a development vehicle to a full-fledged competition car. The Mokka GSE Rally Test Days were development work at full throttle – and at the same time a showcase for customer racing.

For five years, Opel and the ADAC have been proving that electric rallying can push boundaries. The world’s first and to date only electric one-make cup has established itself: dynamic, approachable, competitive. The ADAC Opel Electric Cup became the sport’s up-and-coming grassroots competition with the Corsa Rally Electric serving as a fast and reliable tool. In 2026, Opel and the ADAC will take the next step. The competition will be called the ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup in the future. The name says it all: Grand Sport Electric. Six countries are on the calendar. A further developed charging infrastructure with ‘remote charging’ is set to enable more special stages, more kilometres, more rallying – electrically, but without compromise.

The star of the new season was waiting for the test drives in Pferdsfeld: the Opel Mokka GSE Rally. It replaces the Corsa and takes electric rallying to a new level. 281 hp, 345 Newton meters of torque, racing electronics, chassis components from higher rally categories, FIA safety standard. A thoroughbred racing car – and yet deliberately close to the series in terms of electric motor, inverter and battery.

The Mokka is already at the level of a Rally4 car, but is not yet at the end of its development. And that’s exactly why these days were decisive. Opel Motorsport has invited 27 rally drivers to the Triwo Testcenter. Everyone got an hour in the car. Three vehicles, three development stages. A narrow time window that demanded precision – not only on the track. Steffen Schulz, responsible for event management, speaks of a special challenge: “Such a tight overall schedule was a major organisational challenge, as we wanted to offer all drivers very personal and high-quality support.”

Calle Carlberg was also on site. Junior European champion, formed in the Opel talent programme, sparring partner and advisor in the passenger seat. He explained lines, listened, gave tips – and showed how the leap into professional rallying can succeed. The Stellantis Motorsport Engineering Team and the Opel Motorsport Team provided the technical support.

The reactions followed immediately and were full of praise. Man van Empel sat in the Mokka GSE Rally for the first time and put it succinctly: “I’m really impressed.” Fabian Kamermans emphasised the pace: “OMG – it’s so fast.” And after the drive, it was clear to many that one hour was not enough. “I want to get back in immediately and do more laps,” said Gemma Hallinan – a reaction that summed up the first impression of many drivers.

The feedback will now be incorporated into further development. Many things are already finalised, some are being tweaked. Everyone agrees: the interest is high, as is the quality of the applicants. The GSE Rally Cup 2026 promises excitement. Especially since Vauxhall is also competing with its own UK team. The driver is Ioan Lloyd from the Junior European Rally Championship. “Professional, concentrated, calm,” says Opel Motorsport boss Jörg Schrott about the Welshman. Qualities that win titles.

Schrott looks further: Six countries, more attractive than ever since the beginning of the joint ADAC and Opel one-make cups. A vehicle that inspires participants and fans – and more special test kilometres thanks to improved charging infrastructure. “We can all look forward to even more electric action,” he says. Philipp Quanz, Head of Marketing Communications Opel Motorsport, is also convinced: The new Mokka GSE Rally consolidates Opel’s pioneering role. The Cup remains powerful and a springboard for talent. “I can’t wait to see some of them challenging for the title in 2026.”