In the parking lot behind the Adam Opel House, the Abarth 500e roars. The Acid Green paint underlines its intentions. Nik Grammenos gets out, takes a deep breath and says: “Awesome, awesome – I’ve fallen in love.” This is how speed dating works today: Employees at the headquarters in Rüsselsheim experience the first #OneTeam CONNECTeDRIVE and can spend a week testing what the Stellantis family has to offer: Opel, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, Fiat, Jeep, DS, Peugeot, Leapmotor or Abarth – all electric models. There are over 900 driving slots. “Just one hour after the event was announced, 600 were already taken,” says Paul Stegmeier, one of the responsible organisers of the event.

The employs simple needed to book online, pick up the keys, drive off. Motto: ”We turn employees into brand ambassadors.” One who conscientiously fulfills this role is Nils Nothnagel, Manager Global Security, drives the Peugeot E-3008 today. His conclusion: “Great car.” As a passionate brand ambassador, he has been promoting Opel models to neighbours and friends for years. Now he will become a Stellantis ambassador. The E-3008? “Impresses with its design, range and comfort.” Two who can’t get enough are dual students Maxim Affeldt and Justin Klan. There are four models on their list – from Abarth to the Peugeot 408 and the DS7. They are just getting out of the Opel Grandland. Their verdict: “Elegant and spacious.”

Particularly sought-after: the two Abarth models. The 600e Scorpionissima offers 280 hp, the all-electric 500e a good 150 hp. “My profession is bare sheet metal,” says Dennis Sudheimer, who is responsible for the welding techniques of all bodyshells in Stellantis plants. Today he is testing the finished product. Sudheimer activates the sound generator of the Abarth 500e – over 6,000 hours were spent analysing and creating the perfect sound for each phase of the driving experience. Bianca-Jennifer Gutt is receiving a key for the third time. The marketing specialist works in pricing at Opel and will soon move to the Peugeot sales team. She tests them all: e-208, e-308, E-408, E-5008. “I love the design,” she says. For her, the rides are more than fun – they are preparation for the next step in her career. “There are so many opportunities within the Stellantis family – that’s what excites me.”

The door shuts with a solid “click,” then silence. The Opel Frontera is ready to go. An employee responsible for the release of wiring harnesses drives the vehicle off the factory premises. He wants to experience firsthand what he previously inspected. In the passenger seat sits a representative from a seat supplier. During the thirty-minute drive, attention turns to the center console: a large display, clearly laid out and intuitive to use. The functions are well structured, making orientation easy. On country roads, the vehicle demonstrates balanced handling. Short bursts of acceleration alternate with smooth, relaxed cruising. The Frontera remains stable on the road and conveys a reassuring sense of control. The conclusion: space, comfort, technology – everything is there. No frills. Not a car for show-offs, but for people with families, with common sense.

Marion Fuchs, interior designer at the headquarters, looks into the interior of the Fiat 600e with the eye of an expert. The cockpit: clear, practical, accentuated in colour. Fabric made from recycled fibres. “Our colleagues know their craft.” Leapmotor, the youngest brand in the portfolio, is also generating plenty of interest. It has been part of Stellantis since 2023 – as a joint venture. The T03 microcar and the C10 compact SUV are ready. Frank Baumeister can’t decide – and tests both. €18,900 for the small T03? “That’s a statement,” he says. Above all: numerous assistance features are included.

Conclusion: Every brand has an identity, every model has character – and the one-week #OneTeam CONNECTeDRIVE is more than just a test drive. The speed dating format through the variety of Stellantis models – it is charged with electricity and enthusiasm. The tenor of all those involved: Repetition definitely desired!