E-mobility: Opel Ampera-e with a range of over 500 kilometers – 60 kWh battery

10/02/2016 | Print view

The new Ampera-e Opel was developed on basis of the GM Bolt. The car has a 60 kW fast charging Li-on battery system constructed by GM and LG Chem with a WLTP range of 380 kilometers. - © Adam Opel AG — © Adam Opel AG

The new Ampera-e Opel was developed on basis of the GM Bolt. The car has a 60 kW fast charging Li-on battery system constructed by GM and LG Chem with a WLTP range of 380 kilometers.

Opel presented its new Ampera-e at Paris Motor Show with a range of more than 500 kilometers measured on NEDC test cycle. The Li-Ion batteries were developed by GM and LG Chem. Sales will start in spring 2017 with an expected price of 30.000-35.000 Euros.

“With the new Ampera-e, we continue the largest model offensive in Opel’s history,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “The Ampera-e with its outstanding range makes electric mobility fully feasible for everyday use and also lots of fun.”

WLTP range of 380 kilometers

While the NEDC cycle is important to create comparability, the test cycle does not truly reflect everyday reality. In real world, factors such as road characteristics, weather conditions, driving style or additional load influence the range. Opel therefore also tested the Ampera-e approximated to the speed profile defined in the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) driving cycle (shortened test procedure). The WLTP results are closer to real driving behavior. And the Opel Ampera-e also delivers here: Based on the development test, the engineers estimate the combined WLTP range to be more than 380 kilometers. Naturally, the range in everyday use will vary and depends on personal driving behavior and on external factors.

60 kWh battery for fast charging

The battery system consists out of lithium-ion cells and was constructed by GM together with LG Chem. It can be loaded with fast charging stations. This enables to recharge the empty battery within one hour by 80 percent according to the manufacturer. The performance of the electric engine is equivalent to 150 kW/204 hp (PS). The compact electric car accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.2 seconds. And as the large, 60 kWh capacity batteries are cleverly integrated in the underbody, the car also offers ample space for five passengers and a trunk with the load capacity of a five-door compact class car. Furthermore, the Ampera-e comes with digital connectivity thanks to OnStar and smartphone projection.

Not just a second car

“Our Ampera-e is not eco-luxury, not a gadget and not just a second car. Opel is showing that electro-mobility is also achievable for a much broader audience thanks to the most innovative technology – Opel is democratizing the electric car with the Ampera-e,” said Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. The price is expected to be within 30.000 and 35.000 Euro, sales will start in Europe in spring 2017. (HCN)