Frankfurt Auto Show: Opel Ampera

The "new" Opel showcased the Ampera at the Frankfurt Auto Show while, at the same time, the model undergoes heavy testing under the close observation of Opel's engineers. The Ampera, often referred to as the European version of the Volt, relies on the Voltec technology and uses electric as its primary power source and gasoline as a secondary source, mostly for generating electricity.

The Ampera incorporates a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery that supports an autonomy of up to 50 kilometers on electric power alone. Together with the combustion units, the electric unit allows for a range of 500 km, according to official specs. The battery can be easily recharged via any household 230v outlet.

“The Ampera further demonstrates GM’s leadership in the electrification of the automobile. Its ground-breaking Voltec electric propulsion system is the kind of game-changing technology the automotive industry needs to respond to energy and environmental challenges,” Carl-Peter Forster, GM Europe CEO said.

“The Ampera development cars show that a practical, electric four-seater with cargo space and the capability to be the first automobile in the household, is not just theory, but a car that will be reality by 2011,” says Frank Weber, Vehicle Line Executive for Ampera development.

The electric unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 hp, as General Motors explained. This means the car is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 161 km/h, while going from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds.

Opel plans to start production of the Ampera in 2011, with Vauxhall likely to get its very own version to be sold in the British market.