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Vauxhall Ampera To Make Pioneering Journey

The Vauxhall Ampera is about to go on a special journey, as the extended range electric vehicle will make the longest single journey by an electric car on British roads, with the project debuting Tuesday, June 22.

The Ampera, which will enter the British market at the beginning of 2012, will be driven by a selection of drivers from Vauhxall’s home in Luton, Bedforshire to its passenger car plant in Ellesmere Port, Chesire, a trip of over 170 miles.

It’s quite poignant that Luton, our home for the last 105 years, should mark the starting point of not just this historic journey, but also the future of E-REV vehicles in the UK. In the last century, Vauxhall has pioneered innovation and technology for mainstream car buyers, and this commitment will continue with the Ampera. We’re truly energising the future for British motorists,” said Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall’s Managing Director, who will drive the Ampera on the first leg of its journey from the company’s Heritage Centre in Luton.

The Ampera uses electric power continuously, regardless of the driving speed, and for the first 40 miles of trip will be supplied by electricity stored in the car’s 16 kWh lithium-ion battery, meaning that the Ampera will release no tailpipe emissions. When the battery runs out of energy, the vehicle’s petrol/E85 engine generator seamlessly provides electricity.

The Ampera, which is based on the Astra platform will complete its journey at the end of the New Astra’s production line, where it will be welcomed by plant director, Tony Francavilla.
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About the author: Andrei Tutu
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In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
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