Volt-Based Opel Ampera Debuts At Geneva Motor Show

Posted in Alt Fuels, Auto Show, Cars, Electric Cars, Foreign Cars, Geneva Motor Show, GM, Hybrid, Hybrid Technologies, New Cars, Newsworthy, Opel, Pictures by Suzanne Denbow | March 2nd, 2009 | 1 Response |

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Scheduled to officially hit the market in 2011, the Opel Ampera has made its world debut today at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Essentially the European-derivitive of the Chevy Volt, the Opel Ampera is a 5-door, 4-seater extended-range electric vehicle powered by GM’s Voltec electric-propulsion system. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), the Ampera is powered solely by a zero-emissions 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the battery is drained, the Ampera switches powersources to an engine-generator that extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km. Rechargable via any standard household (230v) outlet, the Opel Ampera’s astounding range capablitiy coupled with its segment-topping performance numbers are poised to turn the hybrid vehicle market on its ear. “Driving electrically is not only about ecology,” said global vehicle line executive and chief engineer, Frank Weber. “Driving electrically is also great fun. Instantaneous, silent torque of 370 Newton meters under your right foot feels like flying!”