Vauxhall launches GSe badge for hot future EVs

• GSe becomes electrified sub-brand
• Vauxhall to become electric-only by 2028
• GSe will become top-of-the-range performance model

Vauxhall has launched a new GSe sub-brand, designed to offer buyers sportier versions of the brand’s hybrid and electric models. The GSe badge should prove pivotal in the maker’s goal of offering only electric vehicles by 2028.

The GSe nameplate stands for ‘Grand Sport Electric’ and will become the new top-of-the-range trim offering. The badge has been created as a nod to the history of the Vauxhall brand, which previously used the GSi name to designate performance models – before switching to VXR in more recent times.

Vauxhall is yet to announce full details of the GSe brand, but does say that these models will feature “driver-focused chassis set-ups” – suggesting changes to the suspension, and maybe the steering and brakes. We expect a distinguished look to both the interior and exterior, in line with previous performance Vauxhall models.

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It’s likely the GSe name will first appear on the plug-in hybrid Astra and Grandland models, before being added to the brand’s EVs in time. We should therefore see a Corsa GSe and Mokka GSe before too long.

A simplified trim lineup means the current GS-Line specification will remain and take styling inspiration from the GSe, but without the same performance-orientated parts fitted to the sporty range-toppers.

Acting Managing Director of Vauxhall, James Taylor, said: “Sitting atop the newly simplified Vauxhall range, the GSe name is both a nod to GSi performance models from our heritage as well being a complement to the GS versions in our lineup today.”

All Vauxhall models are currently available with some form of electrification, including the Vauxhall Vivaro van and Vauxhall Corsa-e. The new Vauxhall Astra is currently only offered as a petrol, or a plug-in hybrid, but an all-electric model expected to arrive shortly – taking its technology from the newly-revealed Peugeot e-308.

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