Opel today announced that its new natural gas-propelled Zafira 1.6 CNG Turbo van will be showcased at the upcoming Bologna Motor Show that starts on December 5. Opel says the new Zafira provides a maximum power of 150 hp combined with a top speed of 200 km/h and a fuel consumption of 5.3 kg of natural gas per 100 km. Moreover, the gas emissions were rated at 144 g/km of CO2, which “means 60 percent more horsepower for a difference of only 6 grams in emissions than the naturally aspirated model,” as Opel mentioned in a press statement.
“CNG is one of many alternative propulsion strategies being pursued by Opel and its parent company General Motors as part of a wider move to reduce CO2 emissions and diversify world fuel supplies.”
The Zafira CNG Turbo 1.6-liter engine is compatible with several types of fuel, including natural gas, bio-methane or any mixture of the two, Opel added. “In gas mode alone, the vehicle can drive up to 370 km, while the 14-liter reserve gasoline tank provides an additional range of 150 km for maximum flexibility. A maximum torque of 210 Nm at only 2,300 rpm will ensure plenty of power in all situations.”
There were no less than 75,000 natural gas-propelled vehicles sold in five markets, according to figures provided by Opel, including Germany, Italy, Sweden, Austria and Switzerland, in the first nine months of 2008, almost as many as in all 12 months of 2007 (82,000 vehicles were delivered). “In total, Opel has built more than 58,000 natural gas vehicles, making the brand the second largest producer of CNG models in Europe.”
“CNG is one of many alternative propulsion strategies being pursued by Opel and its parent company General Motors as part of a wider move to reduce CO2 emissions and diversify world fuel supplies.”
The Zafira CNG Turbo 1.6-liter engine is compatible with several types of fuel, including natural gas, bio-methane or any mixture of the two, Opel added. “In gas mode alone, the vehicle can drive up to 370 km, while the 14-liter reserve gasoline tank provides an additional range of 150 km for maximum flexibility. A maximum torque of 210 Nm at only 2,300 rpm will ensure plenty of power in all situations.”
There were no less than 75,000 natural gas-propelled vehicles sold in five markets, according to figures provided by Opel, including Germany, Italy, Sweden, Austria and Switzerland, in the first nine months of 2008, almost as many as in all 12 months of 2007 (82,000 vehicles were delivered). “In total, Opel has built more than 58,000 natural gas vehicles, making the brand the second largest producer of CNG models in Europe.”