AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

Most gearheads know the Opel Ampera is the European near-twin of the Chevy Volt. There are obvious exterior differences, such as the Ampera's "boomerang" headlights and Opel badging, but inside, the only noticeable difference is another Opel badge on the steering wheel.

Bradley Hasemeyer and the Translogic crew traveled to Germany to find out if the trans-Atlantic differences were more than skin deep. Surprisingly, he found one rather interesting revision.

In the U.S., Volts get three driver-selectable operating modes. We get Normal, Sport and Mountain modes. But German Amperas get a fourth mode: Halten mode (aka, "battery hold"). When cruising the Autobahn, drivers can restrict the use of the Ampera's battery and run only on the small, fuel-efficient engine. Once back on surface streets, they can turn loose the battery and bask in bank-account-boosting, ridiculously good, low-cost electric motor cruising.

Why don't we get Halten mode in the U.S.? Well, the obvious reason is probably that most Americans don't speak German. Beyond that, though, Hasemeyer can only guess that government regulations might hold back implementation here. The again, maybe General Motors just likes Germans more. At least we can use Mountain Mode to gain some of the Halten mode's benefits.

Watch the video after the jump.

Continue reading Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera

Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Chevrolet Volt's European sibling took home a checkered flag that might as well have been green instead of black and white.

The Ampera extended-range plug-in hybrid vehicle won the this year's alt-fuel version of the Rally Monte Carlo on a combination of strong driving performance and minimal consumption of fuel and electricity. In an announcement timed with the event, General Motors' UK-based Vauxhall division said it will soon sell an entry-level version of the extended-range plug-in Ampera, in addition to the two other versions already announced.

The Ampera, which will be sold as a Vauxhall vehicle in the UK and under GM's Opel division in continental Europe, beat out vehicles such as the Tesla Roadster - which won the previous two rallies - and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV (sold in the U.S. as the "i") battery-electric vehicle. In all, about 130 vehicles took part in the Rally, with Amperas also placing third, seventh, and eighth. The race, which requires that its cars emit no more than 115 grams per kilometer of C02, covered more than 500 miles over two days.

Earlier this month, the Ampera, along with the Volt, won the 2012 European Car of the Year award. Opel, like Chevy with the Volt, says the 150-horsepower Ampera can travel as far as 35 miles before a gas-powered on-board generator starts powering the electric motor.

As for the new model, details are also minimal at this point. UK-based Autocar says Vauxhall will start selling an entry-level version of the Ampera this summer that will bring its base price to £29,995 (about $47,900 U.S., at today's exchange rates), including the UK-government's 5,000-pound "plug-in grant." Trim details are not yet available.

Continue reading Ampera, the Chevy Volt's Euro sibling, wins Monte Carlo's alt-fuel rally

Ampera, the Chevy Volt's Euro sibling, wins Monte Carlo's alt-fuel rally originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Think James Garner in "Grand Prix," only quieter.

General Motors' Opel division is entering six Ampera extended-range plug-in vehicles in an alternative energy version of the Rally Monte Carlo this week, as the company looks to boost exposure for the European version of the Chevrolet Volt.

The six Amperas are starting the rally on Thursday and are scheduled to finish in Monaco, Monte Carlo, on Sunday. The 150 vehicles in the alt-fuel rally - now in its sixth year - are required to emit no more than 115 grams per kilometer of CO2. Like the Volt, Opel says its 150-horsepower Ampera can go about 60 kilometers (37 miles) on a fully-charged battery before the gas-powered generator kicks in.

Plug In Cars reported that Opel has received more than 7,000 pre-orders for the Ampera, which recently won the 2012 European Car of the Year award, and is planning on meeting its 2012 sales target of 10,000 units. Last fall, Opel increased the Ampera's 2012 sales goal to at least 10,000, up from 8,000 units.

The Tesla Roadster won the last two alt-energy versions of the Rally Monte Carlo.

Continue reading Opel enters six Ampera plug-ins in Rally Monte Carlo alt-fuel race

Opel enters six Ampera plug-ins in Rally Monte Carlo alt-fuel race originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperachevroletmonacomonte carloopelopel amperaplug-in hybridrally grand prixvoltThu, 22 Mar 2012 08:07:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197542/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197542/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/22/opel-enters-six-ampera-plug-ins-in-rally-monte-carlo-alt-fuel-ra/20197542/article-detail.xml 20197542 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/amperarally_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/amperarally.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt sister car Opel Ampera gets 7,000 pre-orders, may hit 2012 sales target]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Opel Ampera - Maroon

Found in translation?

Demand for the Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in hybrid vehicle in the U.S. has been up and down over the car's first 16-odd months, but executives at General Motors' Opel division in Europe are saying that the Ampera, the Volt's European twin, is getting some good attention.

The Ampera has received more than 7,000 orders, leading Opel executives to believe that the Ampera will hit its 2012 sales target of 10,000 units, website Plug In Cars is reporting, citing Enno Fuchs, Opel's e-mobility launch director.

Opel started shipping Amperas to customers last month, saying that most of those owners previously owning high-end cars from automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. General Motors is hoping the Ampera will be better received in Europe than the Volt has been here in the States, where it has become a political lightning rod. Earlier this month, GM said it would shut down Volt production for five weeks - starting this week - in order to thin-out dealer inventory of the car. And last year, GM missed its sales goal of 10,000 units, selling just 7,671 units. GM makes both the Volt and the Ampera at the same plant in Hamtramck, MI.

Still, the Volt showed signs of more life last month when the model moved 1,023 units, up from 603 vehicles in January. The Volt and Ampera were also recently named the 2012 European Car of the Year. Last October, Opel bumped the Ampera's 2012 sales target to at least 10,000 from 8,000 after Opel had received more than 6,000 paid reservations.

Chevy Volt sister car Opel Ampera gets 7,000 pre-orders, may hit 2012 sales target originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet volt2012 opel amperaamperachevroletchevy voltelectric vehicleeuropeopelopel amperaplug-in hybridvoltWed, 21 Mar 2012 09:53:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197450/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20197450/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/20197450/article-detail.xml 20197450 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

The Chevrolet Volt may not be selling well, but it's one of the most lauded cars in history. Today the plug-in hybrid was named the 2012 European Car of the Year, an award it will share with its European fraternal twin, the Opel Ampera.

The Volt won North American Car of the Year in 2011, while also picking up car of the year accolades from Motor Trend, Automobile, and nabbing Green Car of the Year from Green Car Journal. Britain's What Car? awarded the Vauxhall Ampera - as the Opel model is called in the U.K. - its Green Car of the Year award, as well.

But the Volt has been at the center of one controversy after another, since even before it was launched. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into a battery fire showed the car was not defective, but it led to the Ampera being delayed. Recent negative publicity among right-leaning political pundits has contributed to making the Volt something of an enigma for General Motors, which just announced it was suspending production of the slow-selling car.

While Europe was never envisioned as the prime market for the Volt/Ampera, GM says it already has 7,000 orders for the Ampera and that the company expects to hit its target of 10,000 sales this year. Certainly, winning this award, presented at the Geneva Motor Show for the first time this year, should help.

The Volt/Ampera finished significantly ahead of the Volkswagen Up! and Ford Focus in the European Car of the Year voting, which included a field of 35 vehicles.

To read the full press release, click past the jump.

Continue reading Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year

Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperacar of the yearchevroleteuropean car of the yeareuropean car of the year 2012general motorsgenevageneva 2012gmopelvauxhallvoltMon, 05 Mar 2012 15:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186188/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20186188/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/20186188/article-detail.xml 20186188 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Vauxhall Ampera amps up for police duty at Scotland Yard]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vauxhall Ampera police cruiser

Americans have our own ideas about what a police cruiser should be: big, fast, menacing. The kind of vehicle that you can't mistake pulling up behind you on the freeway, and with enough muscle to chase you down should your foot get a little heavier than it should. But overseas, police vehicles are a little more...timid. In Europe, law enforcement typically use smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. So why not a plug-in hybrid?

That's what Vauxhall is asking the British law enforcement community with the Ampera. The UK subsidiary of General Motors already provides an array of vehicles to police departments across the UK, but brought the hybrid - basically a Chevy Volt with different bodywork - to the Intelligent Transport Systems division of the Association of Chief Police Officers to show them how the PHEV could be prepared to serve as a police vehicle.

For the demonstration, Vauxhall equipped this Ampera with four external cameras, a facial recognition system, a police database interface built into the dashboard display and more. The police-spec model, says Vauxhall, could be ready to roll into police motorcades in the UK by 2015. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Vauxhall Ampera amps up for police duty at Scotland Yard

Vauxhall Ampera amps up for police duty at Scotland Yard originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperachevroletlaw enforcementplug-in hybridpolicevauxhallvauxhall amperavoltTue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20171132/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20171132/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/14/vauxhall-ampera-amps-up-for-police-duty-at-scotland-yard/20171132/article-detail.xml 20171132 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ampera-policeweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ampera-policeweb.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Ampera delayed over Chevy Volt battery fears]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,




Automotive News reports that, as suspected, Opel is delaying delivery of its Ampera extended-range hybrid to customers. The plug-in gas-electric hatchbacks have already arrived at dealers across Europe, but the automaker wants to ensure the vehicles' batteries are safe even in the event of an accident. The delay comes on the heels of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration evaluation which saw its Chevrolet Volt twin catch fire three weeks after a series of crash tests. Since the Volt and Ampera are mechanically identical, Opel says that it wants to set up a process to deal with the batteries to make sure they're safe.

Both the Volt and the Ampera are assembled at the General Motors plant in Hamtramck, Michigan, and both make use of lithium-ion batteries to power their electric motors. GM has offered to buy back any Chevrolet Volt models from owners concerned about the safety of their vehicle, but few have taken them up on the offer. The company is currently working on a solution to the fire issue, and the U.S. government is investigating why it took NHTSA so long to bring the battery pack problem to light.

Opel Ampera delayed over Chevy Volt battery fears originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet volt2012 opel amperaamperachevroletchevrolet voltdelayelectric vehicleNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsaopelopel amperaopel ampera delayplug-in hybridvoltvolt batteryMon, 12 Dec 2011 17:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20126418/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20126418/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/20126418/article-detail.xml 20126418 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/opel-ampera-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/opel-ampera-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM increasing Opel Ampera production target given higher-than-expected pre-orders]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/29/gm-increasing-opel-ampera-production-target-given-higher-than-ex/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/29/gm-increasing-opel-ampera-production-target-given-higher-than-ex/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/29/gm-increasing-opel-ampera-production-target-given-higher-than-ex/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Opel Ampera may be very similar to the Chevy Volt under the skin, but a lot of people in the U.S. would argue that the Euro-plug-in's skin is far more attractive. Apparently a lot of Europeans agree.

First year production for the Ampera had been targeted for 8,000 units, but high demand has caused that number to be moved up. Already, GM is reporting more than 6,000 paid reservations (which, granted, is only 150 Euros, which is $212 U.S. at today's exchange rates). The number of 2012 Amperas is now expected to be between 10,000 and 15,000. Apparently, GM has learned from its difficulties in getting up to speed with production of the Volt, as the company says it expects to be able to meet this increased target without a problem.

The Ampera is considered a more up-scale model than the usual Opel and its introduction is being seen as an effort to not just sell a car, but to move the brand. In addition to the Ampera, Opel will also be introducing a new small car, the Opel Junior, which is designed to compete with the Mini Cooper and Fiat 500.

GM increasing Opel Ampera production target given higher-than-expected pre-orders originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 15:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperaelectric vehicleeuropeopelopel amperaplug-in hybridvoltSat, 29 Oct 2011 15:08:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20093484/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20093484/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/29/gm-increasing-opel-ampera-production-target-given-higher-than-ex/20093484/article-detail.xml 20093484 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-challenge-bibendum-045-volt-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-challenge-bibendum-045-volt-630.jpg <![CDATA[Opel aims to be "leader in electric mobility"; production RAK e possible]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Opel RAK e concept

General Motors' German arm, Opel, wants to be the "market leader in electric mobility," according to the automaker's head of sales and marketing, Alain Visser.

That's one task that's easier said than done, for sure. Still, with the plug-in Ampera scheduled to launch next month, Opel says it's ready to usher in the era of electric mobility. Visser claims the Ampera will boost Opel's green cred and jump start the automaker's electrified future.

Opel's immediate future could include the launch of two additional electrified vehicles. One will reportedly be a production version of the two-seat RAK e concept that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Officially, Visser will only only say that, "By the year's end, we'll decide whether to bring the RAK e into regular production. If the decision turns out to be positive, the RAK e could reach the market as early as 2013."

What's the other electric in the works? Well, Automotive News speculates that an electric minicar based off the Chevrolet Spark seems the most likely candidate. Visser's comment? Opel is working on an electric minicar. That is all.

Opel aims to be "leader in electric mobility"; production RAK e possible originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleopelopel amperaopel electricopel electric vehicleopel rak eplug-in hybridrak evauxhallTue, 25 Oct 2011 10:34:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088043/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20088043/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/opel-aims-to-be-leader-in-electric-mobility-production-rak-e/20088043/article-detail.xml 20088043 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Is the Opel RAK e electric concept headed for production?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/is-the-opel-rak-e-electric-concept-headed-for-production/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/is-the-opel-rak-e-electric-concept-headed-for-production/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/19/is-the-opel-rak-e-electric-concept-headed-for-production/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Opel RAK e concept

Soon after unveiling the Opel RAK e concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, General Motors of Europe president Nick Reilly revealed to Autocar that the RAK e is a "very serious concept," adding that Opel is currently investigating production feasibility and believes the two-seat electric could launch with a £9,000 price tag (Around $14,216 U.S. including England's massive Value Added Tax)

The RAK e's lead designer told Autocar that the lightweight concept has been constructed "with production in mind." Meanwhile, Reilly says, "We've got to work on costs and we've got to refine [the RAK e] and do it right."

Autocar claims the RAK e could replace Opel's now-abandoned electric version of the Junior minicar, which was recently scrapped due to "excessively high" costs. While we'd be thrilled to see the RAK e enter the production cycle, there seems to be no indication that it will ever come to the States.

Is the Opel RAK e electric concept headed for production? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptelectricelectric vehicleopelopel conceptopel junioropel rak erak erak e productionMon, 19 Sep 2011 16:49:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20045472/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20045472/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/19/is-the-opel-rak-e-electric-concept-headed-for-production/20045472/article-detail.xml 20045472 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Lured in by Opel Ampera tech, BMW seeks deal with GM]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Frank Weber with the Chevrolet Volt

Spiegel Online set the rumormill ablaze with an unconfirmed report that General Motors is seeking some sort of cooperative deal with German automaker BMW. Speigel says The General's interest in BMW is primarily related to the German firm's gasoline and diesel engine technology.

Beyond that, Spiegel reports that Stephen Girsky, GM's board member in charge of strategy, has started discussions with BMW on "far-reaching joint projects."

BMW chairman Dr. Norbert Reithofer previously went on record saying the German automaker was open to the idea of selling engines to other companies so long as such a move - like the recent agreement BMW made with Fisker Automotive - wouldn't strengthen a direct competitor's position or damage BMW's reputation.

In exchange, Spiegel reports that BMW is intrigued by the technology behind the Opel Ampera. This should come as no surprise considering that former Opel exec Frank Weber (pictured) now heads research and development at BMW. Weber is known as the leader of the team that transformed the Chevrolet Volt from a wild-eyed concept to a production vehicle.

Dow Jones says neither General Motors nor BMW were immediately available for comment on this alleged deal, not that we'd expect them to have much to say at this point, anyway. We'll keep our eyes peeled, though.

Lured in by Opel Ampera tech, BMW seeks deal with GM originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperabmwbmw gmdiesel enginegeneral motorsgmopel amperavoltThu, 15 Sep 2011 09:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20039935/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20039935/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/15/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/20039935/article-detail.xml 20039935 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/zz618f17c2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/zz618f17c2.jpg <![CDATA[Opel RAK e electric concept looks to the future of low-cost urban motoring]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel RAK e concept

Before we delve into the details of the RAK e electric concept, let's step back in time with a brief historical primer. The oldest industrial division within General Motors' current portfolio, Opel, started as a sewing machine manufacturer way back in 1862. Evolving to the production of bicycles soon after, Opel's presence in wheeled transportation turned to automobiles in 1899. Now, at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, Opel looks to the future with its debut of the ultra-modern RAK e Concept.

Back in 1928, Opel captivated the media with its experimental rocket-powered RAK 2. Its streamlined shape and solid-fuel rocket propulsion system demonstrated Opel's vision of the future. Developed 83 years after the RAK 2, the RAK e tandem 1+1 concept projects Opel's take on personal urban mobility.

As an experimental design and technical platform, the RAK e is a narrow four-wheeler built around a steel space frame. Built with an eye toward inexpensive materials, the RAK e is a lightweight concept (just 838 pounds) presented as a vehicle that Opel says even the youngest of buyers could afford.

Propulsion for the RAK e comes from a 49-horsepower electric motor that draws juice from a 5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Range is listed at up to 62 miles and operating costs are claimed to be only one euro per 100 kilometers ($2.19 per 100 miles).

Follow the jump to read over the complete press release from Opel and be sure to check out our live photos of the RAK e in the high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Opel RAK e electric concept looks to the future of low-cost urban motoring

Opel RAK e electric concept looks to the future of low-cost urban motoring originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2011frankfurt motor showopelopel conceptopel rakopel rak erak erak e conceptWed, 14 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20041894/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20041894/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/14/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/20041894/article-detail.xml 20041894 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Opel cancels electric version of Junior minicar]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/opel-cancels-electric-version-of-junior-minicar/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/opel-cancels-electric-version-of-junior-minicar/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/opel-cancels-electric-version-of-junior-minicar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Agila

Perhaps the confidence was overstated. Opel/Vauxhall now says it will not offer an electric version of its upcoming, entry-level Junior minicar.

The electric minicar program, referred to internally as Junior BEV S-04404, has been axed due to "excessively high" costs, according to documents obtained by Automotive News Europe. This decision means that Opel/Vauxhall will not have a battery-powered mini to complete with electric rivals, including the Peugeot iOn, Citroen C-Zero and the upcoming Volkswagen E-Up!

Opel confirmed to Automotive News Europe that the electric Junior has been taken out of the automaker's future production schedule:
We will launch a pure battery electric vehicle, but we will postpone the electric Junior until further notice. At the same time, we will analyze the market opportunities for pure battery electric vehicles very carefully.
So, until further notice, the electric Junior is no more.

Opel cancels electric version of Junior minicar originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minicaropelopel electricopel electric vehicleopel junioropel junior electricopel minicarvauxhallvauxhall juniorMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:03:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20039480/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20039480/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/12/opel-cancels-electric-version-of-junior-minicar/20039480/article-detail.xml 20039480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2008opelagila006_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2008opelagila006.jpg <![CDATA[Opel reveals two-seat electric One Euro Car concept ahead of Frankfurt debut]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/08/opel-reveals-two-seat-electric-one-euro-car-concept-ahead-of-fra/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/08/opel-reveals-two-seat-electric-one-euro-car-concept-ahead-of-fra/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/08/opel-reveals-two-seat-electric-one-euro-car-concept-ahead-of-fra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Opel one euro electric concept

General Motors' German subsidiary Opel has revealed a two-seat electric urban concept aimed at extending the automaker's "pioneering role in alternative propulsion systems."

The diminutive two-seater, referred to by Opel as the "One Euro Car," will make its official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Opel hasn't revealed much about the One Euro Car, but the German firm does claim its electric urban concept will be a "star attraction" at the Motor Show. It will have competition.

Where does the concept's name come from? Opel says it's because the two-seater can travel 100 kilometers (62 miles) for one euro ($1.41 U.S.), and focusing on running costs is a welcome way to promote plug-in vehicles. The automaker claims its electric concept tips the scales at about a third the weight of modern subcompacts and maxes out at a highway-capable speed of 75 miles per hour. Best of all, Opel says the tandem two-seater has "production potential" and would be "affordable." Look for live pics and full details on the Opel's electric concept when it hits the Frankfurt stage.

Continue reading Opel reveals two-seat electric One Euro Car concept ahead of Frankfurt debut

Opel reveals two-seat electric One Euro Car concept ahead of Frankfurt debut originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefrankfurtfrankfurt motor showlightweight electric vehicleopelopel electric conceptopel one euro cartwo seaterThu, 08 Sep 2011 14:08:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20037660/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20037660/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/08/opel-reveals-two-seat-electric-one-euro-car-concept-ahead-of-fra/20037660/article-detail.xml 20037660 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/273177_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/273177.jpg <![CDATA[Opel seeking hybrid powertrain partner]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/opel-seeking-hybrid-powertrain-partner/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/opel-seeking-hybrid-powertrain-partner/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/opel-seeking-hybrid-powertrain-partner/#commentsFiled under: ,


Opel Ampera
Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

German newspapers are reporting that General Motor's European unit, Opel, is seeking a hybrid powertrain partner to reduce development costs as the automaker eyes the future rollout of more gas-electric vehicles. Opel boss Karl-Friedrich Stracke was quoted by Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung as saying:
Hybrid technology is becoming increasingly more important. We are not holding any concrete talks but a cooperation would be certainly a good way to cut costs. We need hybrid technology starting with compact cars and upwards.
Opel is betting the U.S.-built Ampera (a rebadged Chevy Volt) will be a hit in Germany and expects to sell at least 10,000 units in 2012. But that won't be enough for Opel to hit the European Union-mandated target of 95 grams per kilometer of CO2 by 2020 and that's why Stracke sees a hybridized future.

Opel seeking hybrid powertrain partner originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperageneral motorsgmhybrid vehiclehybrid vehiclesopelopel amperaopel hybridThu, 25 Aug 2011 12:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20024949/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20024949/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/25/opel-seeking-hybrid-powertrain-partner/20024949/article-detail.xml 20024949 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/265055_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/265055.jpg <![CDATA[GM Europe boss says upscale Opel minicar will turn a profit]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/gm-europe-boss-says-upscale-opel-minicar-will-turn-a-profit/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/gm-europe-boss-says-upscale-opel-minicar-will-turn-a-profit/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/gm-europe-boss-says-upscale-opel-minicar-will-turn-a-profit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Opel Trixx concept
Opel Trixx concept

General Motors of Europe president Nick Reilly says Opel fully expects to turn a profit on its upcoming minicar. According to Reilly, the city car's up-scale features mean that the automaker will be able to charge a premium price for the vehicle and, in turn, should let Opel profit from the supermini.

Recently, Reilly told Automotive News that the urban runabout, codenamed Junior, will be aimed at "people who care about the status of their car, what it can do, what features it has, what telematics it has" and rather openly admits the Junior will be more expensive than Opel's other offering in the minicar segment, the Agila. Reilly says of the Junior, "It will have a more premium price for its segment," but claims that Opel, despite reports to the contrary, is not looking to have this vehicle compete with the Mini Cooper.

The Junior is expected to be unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Production is tentatively slated for 2013.

GM Europe boss says upscale Opel minicar will turn a profit originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city carminicaropelopel city caropel junioropel minicarpremium city carThu, 18 Aug 2011 08:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20016331/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20016331/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/18/gm-europe-boss-says-upscale-opel-minicar-will-turn-a-profit/20016331/article-detail.xml 20016331 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/75586_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/75586.jpg <![CDATA[Second-generation Opel/Vauxhall Ampera to be cheaper, more radical]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/second-generation-opel-vauxhall-ampera-to-be-cheaper-more-radic/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/second-generation-opel-vauxhall-ampera-to-be-cheaper-more-radic/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/09/second-generation-opel-vauxhall-ampera-to-be-cheaper-more-radic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Ampera
2011 Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors says it will pump out 10,000 Opel and Vauxhall Amperas for sale in Europe in 2012 and that Opel will get 6,000 Amperas, with the remaining 4,000 shipping to Vauxhall dealers in the UK. Additionally, Opel chief executive officer, Nick Reilly says that 7,000 of the 10,000 Amperas earmarked for Europe in 2012 have already been spoken for. That's the official word.

Now, let's turn to some rumors. Autocar says the second-generation Ampera will launch in 2015 with a base price that's "significantly less" than the £33,995 ($55,514 U.S) Vauxhall will charge for the current Ampera. Furthermore, Autocar claims that Vauxhall's next-gen plug-in hybrid will likely draw styling cues from the automaker's Zafira Tourer Concept that made its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

For the record, Reilly simply stated, "We hope that this first car will establish itself as a market leader and we'll be able to capitalize on that with a cheaper, more expressively designed second generation model." Autocar translated that to mean, "A second generation Vauxhall Ampera will go on sale in 2015, costing significantly less than the current model and featuring a more radical design." So let's make it clear, again, that this is nothing more than a rumor.

Second-generation Opel/Vauxhall Ampera to be cheaper, more radical originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 amperaamperachevrolet voltopelopel amperaplug-in hybridvauxhallvauxhall amperaTue, 09 Aug 2011 19:54:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20013184/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20013184/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/09/second-generation-opel-vauxhall-ampera-to-be-cheaper-more-radic/20013184/article-detail.xml 20013184 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg <![CDATA[Report: General Motors to build 10,000 Opel, Vauxhall Amperas in 2012]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/05/report-general-motors-to-build-10-000-opel-vauxhall-amperas-in/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/05/report-general-motors-to-build-10-000-opel-vauxhall-amperas-in/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/05/report-general-motors-to-build-10-000-opel-vauxhall-amperas-in/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Ampera
2011 Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors says it will pump out 10,000 Opel and Vauxhall Amperas for sale in Europe in 2012. The breakdown, according to GM Europe president Nick Reilly, will go something like this: Opel gets 6,000 Amperas from GM's allotment of 60,000 for 2012 and Vauxhall receives 4,000 of the plug-in hybrids to sell in the UK. What this means is that approximately 50,000 Chevrolet Volts will be built in 2012, of which 2,000 will be sold over in the UK, leaving the United States with 48,000 Volts to go around in 2012.

Nick Reilly says most of the Amperas will be sold to fleets and local government agencies. The Volt, he says, will be targeted at retail customers in Europe. GM says it will launch the €42,900 ($63,038 U.S. at the current exchange rate) Opel Ampera in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2011 and will wheel out both the £28,545 ($46,614 U.S.) Volt and the £33,995 ($55,514 U.S) Vauxhall Ampera in the UK in spring of 2012.


Gallery: Opel Ampera



[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Report: General Motors to build 10,000 Opel, Vauxhall Amperas in 2012 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 opel ampera2012 vauxhall amperaamperaelectric vehiclegeneral motorsgmopel amperaplug-in hybridvauxhall amperaFri, 05 Aug 2011 19:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20009436/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20009436/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/05/report-general-motors-to-build-10-000-opel-vauxhall-amperas-in/20009436/article-detail.xml 20009436 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg <![CDATA[Europcar to add Opel Ampera to fleet of rental vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/europcar-to-add-opel-ampera-to-fleet-of-rental-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/europcar-to-add-opel-ampera-to-fleet-of-rental-vehicles/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/europcar-to-add-opel-ampera-to-fleet-of-rental-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Ampera at Europcar rental site

Last March, rental agency Europcar, pre-ordered 500 electric vehicles from Renault to add to its fleets in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Now, Europcar is back at it again. This time 'round, the rental agency has announced that it will add an undisclosed amount of the "go anywhere at any time" Opel Amperas to its fleet.

Europcar says it will offer rental Amperas at its outlets in Germany starting this November. The goal is to eventually deploy the Euro-Volts across Europe, with Europcar outlets in Belgium and the Netherlands getting the plug-in hybrid by the end of 2011. Select sites in France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom will take delivery of their Amperas beginning in early 2012. The Opel Ampera will go on sale to the general public in Germany in the fourth quarter of 2011.

[Source: Opel]

Continue reading Europcar to add Opel Ampera to fleet of rental vehicles

Europcar to add Opel Ampera to fleet of rental vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperaeuropcaropelopel amperarentalrental agencyrental vehicleThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:56:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19988313/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19988313/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/14/europcar-to-add-opel-ampera-to-fleet-of-rental-vehicles/19988313/article-detail.xml 19988313 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/opel-ampera_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/opel-ampera.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Is the 2011 Opel Ampera sold out?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/report-is-the-2011-opel-ampera-sold-out/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/report-is-the-2011-opel-ampera-sold-out/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/report-is-the-2011-opel-ampera-sold-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Opel Ampera
2011 Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in November of 2010, General Motors began taking orders for the 2011 Opel Ampera, Europe's mechanically identical cousin of the Chevrolet Volt. The MSRP, a lofty €42,900 in Germany, ($61,123 U.S. at the current exchange rate), or $21,128 more than a 2012 Volt here in the U.S. (though not significantly higher than the Volt's European price), apparently hasn't turned off potential Ampera buyers.

According to Automobilwoche (sub. req.), some 5,000 potential buyers have plunked down €150 ($214 U.S.) to pre-order the Ampera, which means that all of the Amperas headed to Europe this year are spoken for. Well, sort of.

Officially, Opel's press release says that:
Over 5,000 potential customers have already joined the ePioneer community at Opel-Ampera.com. Opel expects Ampera sales in 2012 to reach around 10,000 units.
Those 5,000 (2,000 coming from the general public and 3,000 from corporate fleets) or so hand-raisers have nothing to lose but their meager deposits if they decide to back out. So, until sales of the Ampera begin in the fourth quarter of 2011, there's no way of knowing whether or not Opel's plug-in hybrid is actually sold out. In any case, there appears to be a supply of about 10,000 Amperas headed across the pond for 2012.


Gallery: Opel Ampera


[Source: Automobilwoche via The Truth About Cars, Opel]

Continue reading Report: Is the 2011 Opel Ampera sold out?

Report: Is the 2011 Opel Ampera sold out? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 opel ampera2012 opel amperaamperaelectric vehicleopelplug-in hybridvoltFri, 08 Jul 2011 18:01:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19986670/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19986670/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/08/report-is-the-2011-opel-ampera-sold-out/19986670/article-detail.xml 19986670 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg -1 2