Opel Combo Start Electric becomes a more affordable entry-level option
Opel will open the order books for the new Combo Start in October. The range starts at €22,400 excluding VAT, making it €1,000 cheaper than the previous entry-level model. Alongside gasoline and diesel versions, a battery-electric variant will be available from launch.
The Opel Combo Start Electric costs at least €28,500 excluding VAT. For private customers in Germany, this equates to a price of €33,915 including 19% VAT. The final price will differ accordingly in Austria and Switzerland due to their different tax rates.
42 kWh battery and 270 km WLTP range
The electric motor delivers 100 kW, while the battery has a usable capacity of 42 kWh. According to the WLTP standard, this gives the electric Combo a range of up to 270 km. Details of the maximum charging rate and charging times have not yet been released.
| Powertrain | Output | Transmission or battery | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric | 100 kW | 42 kWh usable | From October |
| Gasoline | 81 kW | 6-speed manual transmission | From October |
| Diesel | 75 or 96 kW | 6-speed manual transmission | From October |
| 48-volt hybrid | Not yet specified | Not yet specified | Planned from 2027 |
For regional deliveries, trades businesses, and municipal duties, 270 km may be sufficient on paper. However, payload, low temperatures, and fast highway driving will reduce the actual range. A key factor will therefore be how quickly the compact battery can be recharged during breaks.
Flexible interior for tools and parcels
Standard equipment includes a four-way adjustable driver’s seat, the folding FlexiSeat passenger seat, and a Connect Box with emergency calling and assistance functions. A smartphone station in the center console allows the driver’s own phone to serve as the navigation and infotainment system.
When the FlexiSeat is folded up, usable cargo volume increases by 0.5 m³. This also creates additional space in the front passenger footwell for parcels, toolboxes, or other work materials.
Opel optionally offers the ModuTable for €300 excluding VAT. The module can be used as a storage surface, a small laptop workstation, or a dining table. The also-available FlexCargo configuration adds a center seat and, when needed, creates a load-through opening for long objects.
Up to 4.4 m³ of cargo volume
The Combo Start is offered in two vehicle lengths and can accommodate up to 4.4 m³ of cargo. Depending on the powertrain, payload capacity can reach almost 1,000 kg. Opel has not yet specified whether the electric version achieves the maximum figure.
Visually, the new version receives a redesigned front end with a more distinctive bumper. Nevertheless, functionality clearly remains the priority: plenty of usable space, modular seating, and a relatively compact electric powertrain for everyday commercial use.
Position in the electric van market
The Combo Start Electric is positioned as a compact work vehicle rather than a lifestyle van. Vehicles such as the larger VW ID. Buzz take a different approach to space, range, and comfort, while the Kia PV5 demonstrates the versatility of new electric commercial-vehicle platforms.
The electric powertrain carries a €6,100 premium excluding VAT over the least expensive Combo Start. Whether this additional cost pays off will depend primarily on annual mileage, electricity prices, charging availability at the business premises, and regional incentives. For those with predictable daily routes and the ability to charge at their own site, the Combo Start Electric offers a practical alternative to the combustion-engine versions.
