The Chevy Bolt has really captured the global media’s attention, thanks to its 238 mile range. Quite understandably, questions have been asked as to whether GM intends to release a European version. Those questions have now been answered with the arrival of the new Opel Ampera-e.
The Opel Amera-e has the same technical specifications as the Chevy Bolt, with a range of over 400 kilometers (248 miles), thus aligning with the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standard for range comparisons between vehicles. The new vehicle can easily clear the 400 kilometer range barrier without the need for recharging, making the best vehicle in its segment. For example, the BMW i3, even with the optional large 33 kWh battery, can still only achieve 300 kilometers, while the range of the Nissan LEAF is lower still at 250 kilometers. This means that the Opel Ampera-e gives at least 30 percent more range than its closest competitor, revolutionising electro-mobility.
“In the Ampera-e we will bring an electric car suitable for everyday use to the market” said Opel CEO Dr. Karl‑Thomas Neumann. “It delivers an extensive range and will be offered as of spring next year already. The Opel Ampera-e is not eco-luxury, not a gadget and not a pure second car. Opel is showing that electro-mobility is also achievable for a much broader audience thanks to the most innovative technology – Opel is democratizing the electric car with the Ampera-e.”
The 4.17 meter long Ampera-e offers space for up to five people and an above-average trunk volume of 381 litres. The generous spaciousness is made possible by the integration of the ten battery modules into the underbody of the car and tailored to the contours of the vehicle, preventing any wasted space. The battery was developed in cooperation with LG Chem and consists of 288 lithium-ion cells with a capacity of 60 kWh.
The Opel Ampera-e gives an acceleration of 0-50 km/h (30 mph) in 3.2 seconds from standing position, via a torque of 360 Nm. Mid-range acceleration, for overtaking for example, is 80 to 120 km/h (50-74 mph) in 4.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 150 kmh (93 mph) for the benefit of the overall range and the performance of the electric engine is equivalent to 150 kW/204 hp.
The Ampera-e enables casual and almost silent cruising while also being able to recharge the batteries when in motion. recuperates automatically in overrun and wins back energy from the electric motor that doubles as a generator. The motor’s braking effect is increased when the driver switches to “Low” mode, thus also increasing recuperation. Furthermore, the driver can switch to “Regen on Demand” for maximum energy recuperation via a paddle at the back of the steering wheel.
The drag torque of the motor is so high in “Low/Regen on Demand” modes that the brake pedal does not need to be applied to reduce speed to a full stop in normal traffic. The Ampera-e can thus safely be controlled via the accelerator (One Pedal Driving). Obviously, the brake pedal still needs to be applied in case of emergency. Initial vehicle simulation models show that drivers can increase the range by up to five percent compared to “Drive” mode when applying “One Pedal Driving” with the corresponding full recuperation when in dense city stop-and-go traffic.
Outstanding digital connectivity is an integral part of the concept. The Ampera-e has both latest generation IntelliLink infotainment and Opel OnStar on board. The award‑winning connectivity and service assistant offers a powerful Wi-Fi hotspot for up to seven devices (depending on the market). The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible IntelliLink systems brings the world of smartphones into the Ampera-e, thus allowing passengers complete access to their favorite music or the possibility of streaming movies.
The Opel Ampera-e will be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October and will be available for purchase in the UK from 2017.
Image: Vauxhall UK
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