Opel CEO, Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann revealed the all-electric Opel Ampera-e at the Paris Motor Show.
Opel Ampera-e, which is essentially the rebadged Chevrolet Bolt EV for the European market, offers a range of more than 500 kilometers (310 miles) (electric range, measured in the New European Driving Cycle in km: > 500 km, provisional figure) NEDC.
During his speech at the Opel press conference Dr.Neumann said: “Here is our all-new Opel Ampera-e! ‘Das Elektroauto!’ The electric vehicle for everyone! The new Ampera-e redefines electric mobility by tackling the biggest hurdle: range. Based on a couple of preliminary NEDC tests, the vehicle is capable of running more than 500 kilometers (310 miles) on one charge. And when customers need to recharge, they can ‘refill’ with almost 150 kilometers (93 miles) of range in just 30 minutes at a public charging station. We will introduce the car in Europe in the first half of next year.”
During the press conference, Dr. Neumann also revealed that, as proof of the range, an Ampera-e drove the distance from London to Paris – 417 kilometers on the road – on a single battery-charge last weekend. And the batteries were still not empty when it arrived at the venue of the “Paris Motor Show“. The on-board computer showed a remaining range of 80 kilometers (50 miles) thus demonstrating that the Ampera-e can achieve a range of around 500 kilometers (310 miles) under everyday traffic conditions.
To complete its collection of range measurements and in addition to this real world London to Paris drive and the NEDC tests, Opel also tested the Ampera-e approximated to the speed profile defined in the stringent WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) driving cycle (shortened test procedure). And the vehicle also delivers here: Based on this development test, the engineers estimate the combined WLTP range to be more than 380 kilometers (236 miles). Naturally, the range in everyday use will vary and depends on personal driving behavior and on external factors.
In addition to its superior propulsion system, the Opel Ampera-e also features a clever total concept: The efficient packaging of the battery under the vehicle floor enables a roomy interior providing comfortable seating for five passengers and trunk space comparable with that of a five-door car in the compact class.
Executive Chief Engineer, Pamela Fletcher explained in Paris: “Not only does the battery design and placement help deliver this impressive space, it is also an integral piece of the structure of the vehicle, contributing to torsional stiffness, a low center of gravity, crash protection and weight reduction.”
