Opel/Vauxhall Ampera-e promises 400 km range

We are back with new informations about the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera-e electric car (Chevrolet Bolt in the USA), to be presented at the Paris Motor Show in October. In accordance with the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC, the current standard for range comparisons between different vehicles) the new e‑car from Rüsselsheim can clear the magical 400 kilometer barrier by a considerable margin without recharging (purely electrical range measured based on the NEDC in km: >400; provisional figure). In practice, factors such as road characteristics, weather conditions, driving style or additional load influence the range. However, the Ampera-e can effortlessly cover more than 300 kilometers even under average everyday conditions.

This achievements are possibly thanks to the battery pack consisting of 288 lithium-ion cells and a capacity of 60 kWh, developed in cooperation with LG Chem. The entire package is located in the underbody and is tailored to the contours of the vehicle. So, the 4.17 meter long Ampera-e not only impresses with its outstanding range. It also offers space for up to five people and a trunk volume of 381 liters.

The Ampera-e allows casual and almost silent cruising while also being able to recharge the batteries when in motion. To do so, the driver just needs to ease off the accelerator in the normal “Drive” mode. The Ampera-e 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.

The Opel Ampera-e excites with its acceleration that is on par with sportscars. The maximum torque of 360 Nm is responsible for the electrifying temperament of the Opel newcomer. Effortless starts from a standing position (such as at traffic lights) or highway access are two of the Opel Ampera-e’s main strengths. The compact car accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.2 seconds, mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, which is especially important for overtaking, is successfully completed in 4.5 seconds (preliminary figures). Top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h for the benefit for the overall range. The performance of the electric engine is equivalent to 150 kW/204 hp.

Outstanding digital connectivity is an integral part of a sustainable 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 bring the world of smartphones into the Ampera-e, thus allowing passengers complete access to their favorite music or the possibility of streaming movies.