OPmobility SE Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area, and Its Competitors
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Sr. No. |
Item |
Description |
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1 |
Company Name |
OPmobility SE |
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2 |
Website |
www.opmobility.com |
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3 |
Established Date |
1946 |
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4 |
Headquartered |
France |
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5 |
Market Position/ History |
OPmobility, formerly known as Plastic Omnium, was founded in 1946 by Pierre Burelle with the vision of using plastics to improve automotive components. The company quickly established itself as an innovator, opening its first plant in Langres in 1963 and creating the Environment Division in 1965 through a merger. By the 1980s, Plastic Omnium had diversified, introducing plastic bumpers and acquiring Landry Plastiques to enter the fuel system business. The company's international growth accelerated, especially in the 1990s, as it expanded into new markets and formed strategic partnerships, including the creation of Inergy Automotive Systems in 2000. By the mid-2000s, the company was investing heavily in research and development and had become a global leader in automotive components. OPmobility continued its evolution through key acquisitions, including Faurecia's Exterior Systems business in 2016 and the acquisition of Varroc Lighting Systems in 2022. The company also expanded into hydrogen technologies and launched a new division, OP'n Soft, in 2023 focused on software development. A leadership change in 2020 led to a new era for the company, culminating in a rebrand to OPmobility in 2024 to reflect its transformation into a forward-thinking leader in the automotive industry, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and a focus on cleaner, connected cars. |
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6 |
Sales Area |
Worldwide |
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7 |
Manufacturing Location |
152 Plants worldwide |
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8 |
Ticker |
EPA: OPM |
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9 |
No. of Employees |
40,300 (As of December 31, 2023) |
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10 |
Competitors |
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11 |
CEO |
Laurent Favre |
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12 |
Ownership Type |
Public |
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13 |
Contact Information |
1, allée Pierre Burelle, 92593 Levallois Cedex France Tel: +33 (0)1 40 8 |
Business Segment/ Overview:
OPmobility SE is a global leader in the development of innovative solutions for sustainable and connected mobility. The company operates across three key business lines: Exterior Systems, Modules, and Powertrain. Its Exterior Systems division designs complex body parts and intelligent systems that enhance vehicle performance, connectivity, aerodynamics, and aesthetics, including smart tailgates and lighting systems. The Modules division specializes in the development and assembly of custom modules such as front-end modules, cockpits, and central consoles, integrating advanced sensors and lighting. Meanwhile, the Powertrain division provides solutions for energy management, supporting diverse powertrains including petrol, hybrid, electric, and hydrogen technologies. Plastic Omnium’s expertise spans a range of applications from hydrogen storage systems to energy management, making it a key player in the transition to sustainable mobility.
The company serves a wide array of customers across different sectors of mobility, including automotive manufacturers, electric vehicle players, and industries such as rail, buses, and heavy trucks. Plastic Omnium's commitment to innovation is evident through its extensive investment in electrification and hydrogen technologies, including fuel cells and high-pressure hydrogen vessels for commercial vehicles, buses, and heavy trucks.
Hydrogen Storage Tanks Product Types Specification
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Product |
Product Description |
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High-Pressure Hydrogen Storage |
OPmobility SE specializes in designing and producing high-pressure Type IV hydrogen vessels, which feature an inner plastic liner encased in a carbon-fiber shell. The advanced filament winding technology used in these tanks has earned European (EC79) and international (R134) certifications, enabling applications across a variety of vehicle classes. The hydrogen tanks are 10% lighter compared to Type 3 tanks with metal liners. Designed for medium and heavyweight vehicles, including commercial trucks and pickups, the 175-liter hydrogen tank operates at a pressure of 700 bar. These tanks are ideal for storing hydrogen to be used in fuel cells for energy conversion, providing power for vehicle propulsion. Each 175-liter tank holds approximately 7 kg of hydrogen, offering a range of up to 100 km per kilogram of hydrogen. A typical pickup, equipped with three such tanks, stores just over 20 kg of hydrogen, allowing for a range of nearly 500 kilometers. Hydrogen tanks are available in various sizes, tailored to meet the energy storage needs of different vehicle types:
These high-pressure hydrogen storage solutions cater to all forms of mobility, including cars, buses, trains, and trucks, ensuring efficient energy storage for both commercial and private transportation needs. |
Recent Developments:
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Year |
Latest News |
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January, 2025 |
Neural Concept and OPmobility Announced Partnership to Unveil AI-Driven Vehicle Designs at CES 2025 Neural Concept, a leading 3D AI platform, has partnered with OPmobility to bring ‘Engineering Intelligence’ to automotive design challenges, showcasing innovative, AI-driven solutions for hybrid, hydrogen, and complete vehicle bodies at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. The collaboration enables OPmobility to leverage Neural Concept's AI to accelerate product development, enhance design efficiency, and reduce costs. A key highlight of the partnership is a new, quieter fuel tank design for hybrid electric vehicles, developed using AI to simulate fluid dynamics and acoustics in seconds, significantly improving design iterations and reducing time to market. The partnership emphasizes the integration of AI into product design for more sustainable, efficient, and safer vehicles. |
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December, 2024 |
OPmobility Unveiled Its First Type 4 Hydrogen Tank in China OPmobility, through its Franco-Chinese joint venture PO-Rein, unveiled its first large-capacity Type IV hydrogen storage tank in China. This innovative 700 bar tank, featuring a plastic liner encased in carbon fiber, is designed for autonomous hydrogen-powered trams, capable of traveling at 70 km/h with over 300 passengers onboard. The achievement marks a significant milestone in OPmobility's collaboration with Shenergy Co., Ltd. PO-Rein, launched in June 2023, aims to produce high-pressure hydrogen storage systems for the Chinese commercial vehicle market. A new mega-plant, set to be operational by 2026, will significantly enhance production capacity in the Jiading Hydrogen Park, Shanghai, complementing the existing hydrogen tank production plant launched in 2024. |
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September, 2024 |
OPmobility Showcased ‘High-Pressure Hydrogen Storage Unit’ at H2 MEET 2024 OPmobility participated in the H2 MEET 2024 exhibition in Goyang, South Korea, where it showcased its innovative high-pressure hydrogen storage unit. The Type IV hydrogen tank, designed with a carbon fiber shell and certified by both European and international standards, is 10% lighter than its Type III counterparts and enables a driving range of 100 km with a hydrogen refill rate of 1 kg per minute. OPmobility’s focus on sustainable mobility through hydrogen technology reflects its significant investments since 2015, aiming to achieve $3 billion in revenue from hydrogen mobility by 2030. |
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July, 2024 |
OPmobility supplied Hydrogen Fuel Cells and Tanks for Regional Trains in Italy OPmobility was awarded a major contract by Stadler to equip 15 hydrogen-powered regional trains in Italy by the end of 2025. OPmobility will provide four 150 kW NM 12 Twin fuel cells per train, developed by EKPO, along with eight hydrogen tanks per train capable of storing 185 kg of hydrogen. This contract marks a significant step in the expansion of hydrogen-powered trains, which are seen as a versatile solution for non-electrified rail networks. OPmobility aims to solidify its position as a world leader in hydrogen mobility, with plans to capture a significant market share in hydrogen storage, fuel cells, and systems by 2030. |
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June, 2024 |
OPmobility supplied Hydrogen Tanks for Trams in Malaysia OPmobility, through its joint venture PO-Rein, secured a groundbreaking contract with CRRC to provide hydrogen storage systems for autonomous hydrogen-powered trams in Kuching, Malaysia. The contract involves the delivery of 76 Type 4 high-pressure storage systems, each with four 175-liter tanks, to power the new trams. These trams, which can carry 300 passengers, will travel autonomously for 245 km at speeds up to 70 km/h and refuel in just 10 minutes. This contract marks a significant step in developing a robust hydrogen rail value chain, underscoring OPmobility’s commitment to expanding hydrogen mobility across Asia and beyond. |
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January, 2024 |
Plastic Omnium Launched Construction of Hydrogen Mega-Plant in China Plastic Omnium, through its PO-Rein joint venture, began construction on a high-pressure hydrogen vessels mega-plant in Jiading, Shanghai, set to be operational by 2026. This 28,000-square-meter facility will produce up to 60,000 hydrogen vessels annually to support China's growing commercial vehicle market. The plant will complement Plastic Omnium's existing hydrogen production plant in Shanghai and strengthen its position in the Chinese hydrogen mobility sector. The PO-Rein venture, a 50/50 partnership with Shenergy Group's subsidiary Rein, aims to accelerate the development of the hydrogen value chain and contribute to China's carbon neutrality goals. By 2030, Plastic Omnium plans to achieve €3 billion in hydrogen-related sales. |
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September, 2023 |
Plastic Omnium started Construction of Largest Hydrogen Tank Plant in Europe Plastic Omnium commenced the construction of a state-of-the-art hydrogen tank plant in Lachelle, France, designed primarily for lorries and buses. With an annual capacity of 80,000 hydrogen containers, the factory will serve major companies such as Stellantis and HYVIA. The project, valued at €150 million, is expected to create 150-200 jobs and adhere to the highest environmental standards, contributing to the Group's carbon neutrality goals. This initiative strengthens Plastic Omnium’s position as a key player in the global hydrogen mobility market, alongside ongoing investments in facilities across Europe, the US, and China. |
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August, 2023 |
Plastic Omnium Set Up Largest Hydrogen Storage Production Plant in Michigan, U.S.A. Plastic Omnium announced plans to build the largest hydrogen storage manufacturing plant in North America, located in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. This plant will focus on high-pressure hydrogen storage systems for zero-emissions vehicles and will include a state-of-the-art validation and prototyping lab. The $170 million investment will create 175 high-tech manufacturing jobs, with support from the Michigan Economic Development Cooperation (MEDC). The 200,000 square-foot facility, set to begin operations by the end of 2026, aims to produce up to 100,000 hydrogen vessels annually and achieve 100% carbon neutrality. This investment follows Plastic Omnium's record $2 billion order from a major U.S. automaker, reinforcing its position as a key partner in sustainable mobility. |
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September, 2022 |
Plastic Omnium expanded U.S. Hydrogen Capacity to Supply Ford with High-Pressure Hydrogen Vessels Plastic Omnium collaborated with Ford to provide 700-bar Type-IV hydrogen high-pressure vessels for Ford’s SuperTruck 3 initiative, aimed at supporting zero-emission trucks in the medium-duty sector. The vessels will equip Ford's F-550 hydrogen fuel cell electric truck prototypes, which are designed for demanding applications such as power and telecom line work. The new manufacturing line at Plastic Omnium’s Adrian, Michigan, facility will produce the hydrogen vessels. This partnership highlights Plastic Omnium’s growing expertise in hydrogen, with plans for significant investments to reach €300 million in sales by 2025 and €3 billion by 2030. |
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May, 2022 |
Plastic Omnium Signed Partnership with Hyliko to Decarbonize Heavy Mobility Plastic Omnium entered into a partnership with Hyliko, a leader in decarbonizing heavy-vehicle fleets, to equip hydrogen trucks with high-pressure hydrogen storage systems. The initial phase includes delivering 315 hydrogen vessels for 45 trucks by the end of 2024. The collaboration also focuses on developing new hydrogen storage systems to increase truck ranges by 60%, reaching over 750 kilometers. Hyliko, which provides a comprehensive hydrogen solution combining truck leasing, hydrogen supply from biomass, and fleet carbon management, aims to equip 15,000 hydrogen trucks in Europe by 2030 and deploy 100 hydrogen production stations. This partnership reinforces Plastic Omnium's commitment to hydrogen mobility and clean transportation solutions. |
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May, 2021 |
Plastic Omnium Signed Partnership with Hopium to Develop Hydrogen Storage for M?china Sedan Plastic Omnium and Hopium formed a strategic partnership to develop the hydrogen storage system for the Hopium M?china, a French hydrogen-powered sedan slated to launch in 2026. The collaboration focuses on a 700-bar Type IV composite vessel, produced at Plastic Omnium’s Herentals plant in Belgium, which will be integrated into the vehicle’s chassis to maximize hydrogen storage. The goal is to achieve a 1,000-kilometer range for the vehicle. This partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to advancing zero-emission mobility and highlights Plastic Omnium’s leadership in hydrogen technology. |
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September, 2020 |
Plastic Omnium Won New Contract for Hydrogen Storage Plastic Omnium was awarded a contract to develop and manufacture hydrogen storage systems for Dutch manufacturer VDL as part of the European H2HAUL project. The contract includes supplying seven hydrogen tanks per truck, each storing 40 kg of hydrogen at 350 bars, to be used in VDL’s zero-emission hydrogen-powered trucks. The H2HAUL project, supported by the European Union, aims to develop and operate hydrogen trucks for heavy-duty logistics, demonstrating the viability of hydrogen in long-distance transportation. This contract follows Plastic Omnium’s success with other hydrogen tank orders and highlights its commitment to advancing hydrogen mobility solutions, contributing to the EU's Green Deal goals of carbon neutrality by 2050. |
Business Strategy
OPmobility SE business strategy revolves around leading the transformation of the automotive industry through a focus on sustainable, connected, and intelligent mobility solutions. At the core of its strategy are three key pillars: electrification, clean energy, and digital transformation. The company is significantly investing in hydrogen technologies, battery systems, and embedded software to address the growing demand for low-carbon mobility. OPmobility’s portfolio spans exterior systems, fuel systems, lighting, and software solutions, enabling the company to meet the evolving needs of its customers while capitalizing on the rapid shift to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. The creation of OP’nSoft in 2023 highlights the company's strategic move to integrate software solutions for vehicle electrification, driver assistance systems, and remote updates, positioning it as a leader in future mobility.
To further strengthen its competitive position, OPmobility is expanding its global presence and leveraging its extensive network of 152 plants and 40 R&D centers across 28 countries. This regional footprint allows the company to cater to local market demands while pursuing its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025. The company’s strategic partnerships with both established and emerging mobility players are vital to accelerating its growth, with a focus on clean energy solutions and market diversification. OPmobility is aiming for €15 billion in revenue by 2030, with 40% of sales coming from new business activities, demonstrating its commitment to driving innovation and securing new opportunities in the evolving automotive landscape.
OPmobility is also focused on operational excellence, innovation, and customer-centricity to deliver high-performance products. A key aspect of OPmobility’s strategy is its focus on hydrogen mobility and digitalization. The company is investing heavily in hydrogen storage solutions and fuel cell technologies to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles. Its role in hydrogen mobility includes providing high-pressure hydrogen storage for commercial trucks, buses, and trains, and securing major contracts like the $2 billion deal for hydrogen vessels with a U.S. manufacturer. OPmobility is also innovating in digitalization, integrating smart technologies such as advanced lighting, intelligent modules, and sensor systems to deliver safer and more personalized mobility experiences. The company’s success in 2023, marked by the launch of the Smart Tailgate and SmartFace bumpers, as well as winning two Innovation Awards.
Sustainability is a central pillar of OPmobility’s strategy, with a clear commitment to carbon neutrality by 2025 and significant reductions in CO2 emissions. The company is making notable strides in hydrogen mobility, partnering with key industry players to develop high-pressure hydrogen storage solutions for sectors like commercial trucks, buses, and trains. In addition, OPmobility is integrating advanced lighting, intelligent modules, and software into its products to enhance safety, connectivity, and consumer personalization. These efforts reinforce OPmobility’s ambition to lead the automotive industry in the transition to zero-emission vehicles, making it a key partner in the ongoing energy transition.
Management Change
On January 16, 2025, OPmobility announced several key changes to its management committee. Christian Kopp will head a new Business Group combining Exterior and Lighting activities. Gérald Mentil has been appointed Group Chief Performance Officer, succeeding Rodolphe Lapillonne, who is retiring after 23 years. Hélène Dantoine joins the Executive Committee as Executive Vice-President, General Secretary, and Chief Compliance Officer.
Author's Detail:
Sonali Shinde /
LinkedIn
Sonali Shinde is a dynamic Research Analyst with a proven track record in the banking and finance sector. With over three years of experience, she brings a deep understanding of financial markets, regulatory environments, and competitive landscapes. Sonali is skilled in conducting market intelligence, trend analysis, and risk assessment, delivering insights that empower strategic decision-making.
Currently, Sonali plays a pivotal role in driving research initiatives within the banking and finance industry. Her expertise in crafting comprehensive research frameworks and her ability to distill complex financial data into actionable recommendations have been instrumental in shaping her organization’s strategies.
Known for her meticulous approach and forward-thinking mindset, Sonali is passionate about driving innovation and fostering growth in the banking and finance sector. Her dedication to excellence and her commitment to staying ahead of industry trends make her an invaluable asset to her team and the broader financial community.