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Range-Extended Electric Vehicle Opel Ampera Drives Anywhere, Any Time

Opel at the Mondial de l’Automobile 2010

2010-09-30

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Paris/Rüsselsheim. The Opel Ampera electric vehicle with extended-range capability will be the first emission-free, electrically driven car in Europe suitable for everyday driving. With its unique electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration and high levels of refinement, the five-door Ampera seats four passengers, offers ample trunk space and features an extended range of more than 500 kilometers.

The Ampera is powered by electricity at all times and speeds. For trips up to 60 km, power is supplied by the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Ampera emits zero CO2. When the battery runs low, the gasoline-fueled engine/generator seamlessly extends the total driving range to more than 500 kilometers on a full tank. The battery is recharged (in about three hours at 230v) by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household outlet. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates range anxiety. It gives drivers the confidence and peace of mind that a depleted battery will not strand them.

The 288 lithium-ion cells in the T-shaped battery pack provide ample power. The nearly silent electric drive unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 horsepower, zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds, and a top speed of 161 km/h.

The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers.  For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.

Opel estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in the Ampera will cost about one-sixth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle, at current fuel prices.

The Opel Ampera is scheduled to go into production in late 2011. It will also be offered with right-hand drive in the United Kingdom by Opel’s sister-brand, Vauxhall.