2009-06-18

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Perceptual quality

Quality by Design: The new Astra feels as good as it looks

• Perceptual quality matches visual experience
• Upscale materials add to tactile and visual experience

Rüsselsheim. Although most people assume designers are concerned only with sculptural artistry on the new Astra, the reality is, they are also involved with German precision through their work with engineers.

Opel designers work closely with engineers so that quality execution in the production of the Astra matches what the customer sees and feels. Such perceptual quality is particularly important in the interior, where the appearance and tactile properties of all materials must be on a par with their high standard of fit and finish.

 “Our goal was to make the perceptual quality on the interior of the next generation Astra as great as that experienced on the Opel Insignia,” says Peter Hasselbach, in charge of Design Appearance Quality. “This is in line with Opel’s mission to bring innovations and quality to the compact class.”

The quality of the materials used in the new Astra is evident in such areas as the grained  surfaces, the textured panels, the quality of the décor appliqués, the chrome trim elements, and the feel of operating buttons and switches.

Master samples serve as quality benchmarks from suppliers

Opel’s Design Appearance Quality team is responsible for all materials used in the interior. The nine-strong group of engineers drew up materials specifications and requirements to be fulfilled by suppliers. To ensure consistency, they developed master samples for each of the hundreds of parts to be used which served as a standard for all suppliers.

The masters are the result of continuous fine-tuning and analysis during the development of the car. For example, the degree of gloss for all individual parts was measured by a special testing device and the colors of parts from different suppliers were closely monitored to ensure consistency.

Main surfaces in the Astra’s interior are textured, with upscale materials and top grains used to give a strong tactile feel. Similar to the Insignia, attention was paid to deliver high caliber components throughout the vehicle.

Contacts:

Vijay Iyer
Tel: +49 (0)6142 7 73864
Mobile: +49 (0)170 339 5900
vijay.iyer[at]de.gm.com

Nathalie Van Impe
Tel.: +49 (0) 6142 -7-66166
nathalie.van.impe[at]de.opel.com

 

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