Vauxhall has unveiled the first images of a Manta-inspired concept car that previews the future design direction of its all-electric GSe performance sub-brand.
The GSe concept will debut at the Munich motor show on September 8. While Vauxhall hasn’t confirmed the car will carry the Manta name, the company says its design serves as “a subtle nod to historic and iconic motorsport vehicles such as the Manta 400 rally car.”
GSe Brand Evolution
The GSe sub-brand launched in 2022 as a hybrid-only trim level before switching to full electric vehicles following a recent relaunch.
Its first production model, the Vauxhall Mokka GSe, arrived in July. The hot crossover shares its 276bhp powertrain and front-mounted limited-slip differential with sibling models like the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce and Abarth 600e Scorpionissima.
Race-Inspired Interior and Exterior
Unlike the production Mokka GSe, this Manta-influenced concept introduces an entirely new design language for the brand.
Preview images show a race-inspired steering wheel with what appears to be a red overboost button. The interior features lightweight bucket seats and a roll cage – clear nods to the brand’s motorsport heritage.
The front end gets ultra-slim horizontal and vertical running lights. Vauxhall’s signature ‘Vizor’ grille features an illuminated Griffin logo that dominates the nose.
At the rear, the design mirrors the front with ultra-slim brake lights and backlit ‘Vauxhall’ lettering. A vertical mount beneath creates a floating effect for the car’s back end.
Despite the concept’s track-focused appearance – finished in Vauxhall’s signature electric yellow paint – the company promises the final version “will be very much at home on the racing track and offer a thrilling yet comfortable and safe driving experience.”
Manta Revival History
This isn’t Vauxhall’s first attempt at reviving the Manta nameplate as an EV.
In 2021, sister company Opel revealed a one-off retro concept called the Manta GSe ElectroMod. That car featured the same electric yellow paint scheme and packed a rear-mounted 31kWh battery delivering 124 miles of range and 145bhp.
The new concept suggests Vauxhall is serious about bringing performance EVs to market under the GSe banner – with the Manta’s rally heritage providing inspiration for the brand’s electric future.
