Opel to Build Mokka Crossover in Europe

General Motors Co.'s Opel unit will move production of the next-generation Mokka subcompact crossover vehicle from South Korea to an unspecified factory in Europe, Automobilwoche reports.

Thomas Sedran, Opel management board member for strategy, tells the German newspaper that the company is studying other models whose production could be shifted to Europe.

Boosting European output is a key element of Opel's restructuring plan. The company aims to build more vehicles there for export and bring production back from abroad.

Sedran says Opel is eyeing opportunities to rebadge its European-made models for sale in China under the Buick brand. He adds that the unit is seeking GM approval to export the new Opel Cascada midsize convertible to China for sale as a replacement for the Buick Riviera.

Earlier this month the Cascada went into production at an Opel plant in Gliwice, Poland, and was unveiled at the Geneva auto show.

GM already sells rebadged versions of Opel's Astra compact, Insignia midsize sedan and Mokka to sell as the Buick Excelle, Regal and Encore, respectively.