!NEW! Spacious, Sporty and Sophisticated: Next-Generation Holden Commodore Sportwagon Revealed

• Room to move with 1640L of boot space, kicking motion opens powered tailgate
• Class-leading driving dynamics, advanced all-wheel drive with torque vectoring
• Sleek European design, superb refinement
• Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and more
• Latest generation IntelliLux LED Matrix lights turn night into day
• World premiere in Geneva this March in Opel guise, on-sale in Australia 2018 

All-New Holden Commodore Sportwagon

All-new Holden Commodore Sportwagon has emerged from the gym; trim, toned and beautifully presented. Following closely on the heels of the reveal of the NG Commodore, the Sportwagon is spacious, refined and offers exemplary safety, just as a flagship Holden should.

Offering space and sophistication in equal measures, the all-new Sportwagon offers 1640 litres of boot space and high-tech solutions ranging from the world-beating IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights and ultra-modern driver assistance systems to the cool head-up display. In addition, the Commodore Sportwagon comes with Holden’s first nine-speed automatic transmission and intelligent all-wheel drive. 

Next-generation Holden Sportwagon reinforces Commodore’s position as the most advanced Holden ever, includes tech such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive suspension, adaptive cruise control and matrix lighting

Drivetrain line-up mirrors NG Commodore’s with four-cylinder petrol and diesel options, alongside the  flagship V6 model with 230 kW and 370 Nm, world-first Twinster all-wheel drive system and 9-speed transmission for the first time ever in a Holden.  

The new Sportwagon comes with significant mass reductions than the current Commodore – depending on powertrain and trim, driven by the use of lightweight materials and efficient packaging. The new Opel Insignia Sports Tourer is up to 200 kilograms lighter than the current Commodore – depending on powertrain and trim, driven by the use of lightweight materials and efficient packaging.

Bringing sexy back:

Who said wagons need to be boring? Holden continues the tradition of high-style wagons with the all-new Commodore. Inspired by the Opel Monza concept, the prominent grille and the sculpted headlight design add to the feeling of sophistication. The car’s stance is also emphasized by a long wheelbase. The signature ‘blade’ styling hallmark starts in the front door and sweeps towards the rear helps carry the eye from front to back. The chrome window blade dynamically flows into the LED tail lamps and gives the Commodore Sportwagon an even more athletic appearance. The silver roof rails help stretch the car, make it look lower and emphasize the high-quality design.

 

2018 Holden Commodore Sportwagon

Easy loader: Tailgate with an extra kick

Not just sleek and sexy, the next-gen Sportwagon is also practical with 1,640 litres of boot volume.

In order to make loading as easy as possible, the tailgate can be opened with a ‘kick’ – without touching the car. In combination with ‘keyless open’ tech, a simple small kicking motion under the rear bumper is enough to open the tailgate (a vehicle silhouette projected onto the ground shows the correct area). A further kicking motion under the bumper will close the tailgate. The clever system can detect any obstruction and stops the mechanism in case of emergency. In addition, for practicability, the height of the opening can be programmed, in case the car is in a garage. Furthermore, the tailgate can still be opened by a switch on the driver’s side of the car, a button at the rear or via the key’s remote control.

In order to increase loading space the new Sportwagon comes with optional 40/20/40 foldable rear seats enabling even more flexible loading space configurations. The rear-seat bank can be folded down by simply pushing a button located in the luggage compartment.

The upcoming Holden Sportwagon will celebrate its world premiere in Opel guise at the Geneva Motor Show on March 7, and will go on sale in Australia in 2018.

 NEXT-GENERATION HOLDEN COMMODORE KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• Cutting-edge driver assistance systems and technology:
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Speed Limit Cruise Control
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Lane Keep Assist
  • Forward Collision Alert
  • Side Blind-Zone Alert
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  
  
• Next-generation comfort and convenience technologies:
  • Massage Seats
  • Rear one-touch folding seats
  • Heated Front and Rear seats
  • Ventilated Front seats
  • Express up/down all windows
  • Wagon power lift-gate
  • Active Noise Cancellation

 Program overview:

• Next-generation Commodore built in Germany on all-new, global E2 architecture shared with Opel Insignia
• Lightweight construction methods result in approximately 200kg weight savings compared to current Commodore
• Flagship model offers V6 AWD drivetrain with Holden-first 9-speed transmission
• V6 engine delivers 230 kW / 370 Nm while being incredibly efficient thanks to Stop-Start technology and Active Fuel Management
• 2.0T petrol and 2.0T diesel front-wheel drive models also coming to Australia
• Liftback and Sportwagon body-styles
• Cutting-edge, adaptive all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring and twin-clutch (‘Twinster’) rear differential system
• Adaptive ‘Flexride’ suspension system offers three settings: ‘Tour’, ‘Standard’ and ‘Sport’ 
• Next-generation matrix lighting system
• Infotainment includes:
  • Apple Car Play and Android Auto
  • 8-inch configurable LCD instrument display,
  • Next-gen head-up display

 Additional details and information to be confirmed closer to launch.

!NEW! Next-Generation Holden Commodore Breaks Cover – Brings Premium Technology To The People

First images of Holden’s cutting-edge Next Generation Commodore released  

Commodore takes technology usually seen only in high-end premium vehicles and brings it to the people

Most advanced Commodore ever includes: autonomous emergency braking, adaptive suspension, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control and Matrix lighting

V6 flagship boasts 230 kW and 370 Nm, world-first Twinster All-Wheel  Drive system and 9-speed transmission for the first time ever on a Holden  

Next-generation Holden Commodore on sale in 2018

Next-generation Holden Commodore on sale in 2018

Holden revealed first images and more details of the all-new Commodore ahead of its Australian launch early in 2018. The next-gen Commodore takes cutting-edge safety, driving and infotainment technology and makes it available for today’s Australians, everywhere. The next-generation Holden Commodore is democratizing technology.

Now with images of the next Commodore breaking cover, Australia gets its first look at the sleek and sophisticated design that will be hitting Australian roads in 2018. Designed in Germany by the Opel team with input from GM Holden’s team, the new Commodore takes the best of Europe and makes it great for Australia.

Building on information released last month regarding the next-generation Commodore, Holden has today confirmed a raft of premium technologies will make Commodore the most technologically-advanced Holden ever. From potentially life-saving safety technology features, to active driving technology and seamless infotainment, the all-new Commodore will make driving safer, easier, more involving and more connected than ever before for Australian customers.

“Customers are expecting more of their vehicles than ever before,” said Holden’s Executive Director of Sales, Peter Keley. “The all-new 2018 Commodore redefines the level of technology people can expect, and how tech can help our customers be safer, more involved and more connected than ever before. The Commodore combines technology across a number of areas in a way that you would usually only find in high-end prestige vehicles and makes it available for everyday Australians. Combined with the howling V6, world-first all-wheel-drive system and all the on-road performance you expect from the Commodore, this is a car that ticks all the boxes and more,” said Mr Keley.

Going on sale in Australia early in 2018, the new Commodore range will be headlined by the V6 flagship model, the first ever imported Commodore will honour the iconic nameplate by being the most technologically-advanced Holden ever. With a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system channeling 230 kilowatts and 370 Newton metres to the road, combined with adaptive suspension technology, a company-first nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, the next-generation Commodore will continue to cement Holden’s reputation for class-leading driving dynamics and on-road refinement.

Jeremy Tassone, Holden’s Engineering Group Manager for Vehicle Development, said the technical underpinnings of the next Commodore also represents Holden’s commitment to bringing the best vehicles from around the word to Australian customers.

“From its cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system, to nine-speed transmission and adaptive suspension, this is a true driver’s car in the way Commodore has always been. We’re taking the best of Europe and making it even better for our Australian customers. I can’t wait for our customers to get behind the wheel”

In addition to the Commodore’s unique all-wheel-drive system, further details surrounding the ‘FlexRide’ suspension system have also been confirmed. The continuously adaptable FlexRide chassis electro-hydraulically adapts the dampers to the road and the driving conditions 500 times per second or 30,000 times per minutes.

Additionally, the driver can save personal preferences for the steering characteristics, throttle response and dampers via the ‘Sport’ button.

• Standard: The automatic control selects the best set-up based on the information collected by the vehicle sensors.
• Tour: Comfortable chassis configuration, and throttle response for best fuel consumption and most relaxed touring. The right mode for relaxing long-distance drives.
• Sport: Brake dive is reduced, flat and responsive chassis control at high speeds and the throttle and steering provide more direct feedback.

The new central ‘Drive Mode Control’ software is the heart and soul of the adaptive chassis. It continuously analyses the information provided by the sensors and setting and recognizes the individual driving style. The individual systems are then optimized for the best traction and road position.

Exterior Design:

The design of the next Commodore is based on the ‘Monza’ Concept car, created by the Opel Design team in Germany. The prominent front grille and the slim-line headlamps are directly inspired by the Monza Concept enhance the wide horizontal gesture of the front end and provide it with a bold appearance. The grille sits lower than on the outgoing model and further emphasises the solid stance.

The side window graphics feature with an upper chrome strip, rather than a full-chrome treatment, and the coupé-like roofline graphically pull the car down and emphasize its stretched appearance. The ‘blade’ light catcher in the lower doors pulls attention rearwards. The new Commodore is as sleek as it looks: it has an exemplary drag factor of 0.26 making it one of the most aerodynamic vehicles in its class.

At the rear, clear and simple lines combined with the slim, precise double-wing LED signature also give the car a wider appearance. The newly designed center high-mounted LED stop lamp has been integrated into the roofline. It helps to give the rear end a more high-tech look typical of premium brands’ vehicles.

Interior Design:

The attention to the smallest detail is also evident inside the Commodore. The cockpit is organized along horizontal lines, enhancing the feeling of elegant lightness and of space. The cockpit is orientated to the driver for a sportier feeling. The generous center console that further embraces the driver provides the feeling of sitting in a much larger class of vehicle. Clean lines, modern surfaces and first-class craftsmanship with soft-feel materials at all touch points contribute to a feeling of elegance and grace.

Infotainment system design:

Equal attention has been paid to the controls and the infotainment interface. The frameless touchscreen of the infotainment system exudes a sophisticated and technical charm. Many functions are controlled via the touchscreen in order to simplify the interface, while three clusters of buttons have been designed to allow quick and intuitive operations: the upper ones for the major functions of the infotainment system, the central ones for climate and heating controls, the lower ones for driver assistant controls. This very clear set-up avoids drivers and passengers having to dive into sub-menus on the touchscreen to find the most essential functions.

NEXT-GENERATION HOLDEN COMMODORE KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• Cutting-edge driver assistance systems and technology:
• Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Speed Limit Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keep Assist
• Forward Collision Alert
• Side Blind-Zone Alert
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• 360-degree Camera

• Next-generation comfort and convenience technologies:
  • Massage Seats
  • Rear one-touch folding seats
  • Heated Front and Rear seats
  • Ventilated Front seats
  • Express up/down all windows
  • Wagon power lift-gate
  • Active Noise Cancellation

Program overview:

• Next-generation Commodore built in Germany on all-new, global E2 architecture shared with Opel Insignia
• Lightweight construction methods result in approximately 200kg weight savings compared to current Commodore
• Flagship model offers V6 AWD drivetrain with Holden-first 9-speed transmission
• V6 engine delivers 230 kW / 370 Nm while being incredibly efficient thanks to Stop-Start technology and Active Fuel Management
• 2.0T petrol and 2.0T diesel front-wheel drive models also coming to Australia
• Liftback and Sportwagon body-styles
• Cutting-edge, adaptive all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring and twin-clutch (Twinster) rear differential system
• Adaptive ‘Flexride’ suspension system offers three settings: Tour, Standard and Sport 
• Next-generation matrix lighting system
• Infotainment includes:
• Apple Car Play and Android Auto
• 8-inch configurable LCD instrument display
• Next-gen head-up display

Additional details and information to be confirmed closer to launch.

!NEW! Next-Generation Holden Commodore Is Coming

• First details of Holden’s next-generation Commodore revealed, redefining a four decade legacy

• First imported Commodore lives up to the legend; V6 flagship boasts 230 kW and 370 Nm, cutting-edge AWD system and 9-speed transmission  

• Packed with advanced technology: Active Fuel Management, adaptive suspension, torque-vectoring AWD, Matrix lighting system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

• Extensive Holden Australian engineering development ensures next-generation Commodore lives up to the legendary nameplate with outstanding driving dynamics  

• Next-generation Holden Commodore on sale in 2018 

Next-Generation Holden Commodore

Holden has today revealed first details of the all-new, next-generation Commodore ahead of its Australian launch in early 2018.

Next-Generation Holden Commodore - Matrix LED lighting system

Australia’s first look under the bonnet of the cutting-edge new Commodore reveals a car that will set new benchmarks in its segment for technology, style, practicality and driving dynamics.

Next-Generation Holden Commodore - Flagship AWD model with 3.6 V6 engine 

Headlined by the V6 flagship model, the first ever imported Commodore will honour the legendary nameplate by being the most technologically-advanced Holden ever. With a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system channeling 230 kilowatts and 370 Newton metres to the road, combined with adaptive suspension technology, a company-first nine-speed automatic transmission and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, the next-generation Commodore is set to cement the iconic nameplate’s reputation for class-leading driving dynamics and on-road refinement.

Based on General Motor’s new ‘E2’ global architecture, engineered in Germany and shared with the Opel Insignia, the new Commodore has also been co-developed under the expert and watchful eye of Holden’s Australian engineers to ensure the all-new Commodore continues a four-decade tradition of setting new benchmarks.  

“Holden has been engaged in this program from the outset to ensure the next-generation Commodore lives up to its legendary nameplate,” said Jeremy Tassone, Holden’s Engineering Group Manager for Vehicle Development.

“We know the first imported Commodore will come under a lot of scrutiny and we know we have a lot to live up to – this car delivers in spades”

“Although we are remain in the early stages of the Holden development process, this is an absolutely world-class car. We’ve taken a precision-engineered German car and endowed it with Holden DNA. It drives like a Commodore should.

“We’ve had our Holden engineers engaged in this global program from the outset and we’re continuing to do extensive tuning and development, racking up thousands of kilometers, at our Lang Lang proving ground in Victoria to ensure it’s got that Holden magic.

“Of course, it helps that the underlying platform is absolutely world class! This global vehicle program, led by Opel in Germany, has produced a phenomenal base for us to work from. The genuinely cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system using active torque vectoring provides incredible traction and handling finesse. The key is what is dubbed the ‘Twinster’ rear drive module. Essentially, the traditional rear differential has been replaced with two individual clutches that not only save weight and improve packaging but provides virtually instantaneous active distribution of torque to the required wheel.

“The overall system monitors inputs from vehicle sensors 100 times per second and constantly adjusts accordingly, it’s extraordinary.”

The V6 engine with the all-wheel-drive system is a combination that the Holden team drove into the global vehicle program because we know our customers and this performance option is important to them. While it may not be built here, we’ll deliver a Commodore that our customers will love in 2018,” said Mr Tassone.    

Commodore’s evolution reflects the transformation of the Holden brand and company as it moves to full-line importer of vehicles. But just like Commodore, Holden will remain a powerhouse of the industry and of the local motoring landscape. 

“The next-generation Commodore will reset benchmarks in its class, as has every Commodore since 1978,” said Holden’s Executive Director of Sales, Peter Keley.

“What Commodore will also continue to do is carry the family in space and comfort. Commodore will also race in Supercars from 2018 and continue to be on the road as police cars.

“This next-generation vehicle is changing and bringing incredible technology and refinement with it but will continue to offer customers that quintessential Commodore experience they have loved for nearly four decades.  

“With the first-ever imported Commodore, we’re delivering our customers an absolutely world-beating vehicle, with the space, practicality, technology and driving pleasure that Commodore has always provided. This is a different kind of Commodore to what has come before but lives up to the nameplate in every respect and will carry our heritage with pride.”

NEXT-GENERATION HOLDEN COMMODORE KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

• Next-generation Commodore built in Germany on all-new, global E2 architecture shared with Opel Insignia
• Lightweight construction methods result in 200kg - 300kg weight savings compared to current Commodore
• Flagship model offers V6 AWD drivetrain with Holden-first 9-speed transmission
• V6 engine delivers 230kW / 370 Nm while being incredibly efficient thanks to Stop-Start technology and Active Fuel Management
• 2.0T petrol and 2.0T diesel front-wheel drive models also coming to Australia
• Liftback and Sportwagon body-styles
• Cutting-edge, adaptive all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring and twin-clutch (‘Twinster’) rear differential system
• Adaptive suspension
• Next-generation Matrix lighting system
• Infotainment includes:
• Apple Car Play and Android Auto
• 8-inch configurable LCD instrument display,
• Next-gen Head-Up display

Pricing, specification, full details of driver, safety and additional infotainment technology to be confirmed closer to launch  

!NEW! Premiere of Green Mobility Trophy: Opel Ampera Takes Top Honors

EV suitable for everyday use convinces readers of trade magazine Auto Zeitung

Clear vote for the trailblazer in electric mobility: readers of Auto Zeitung have awarded the Opel Ampera the “Green Mobility Trophy 2013” and named the mid-size sedan the best electric vehicle. For the first time, the trade magazine presented 134 models and engines from 34 brands as candidates in seven categories. In the electric vehicle class the Opel Ampera beat out 18 competitors to take the title. The 18,000 participating readers put the two closest competitors – the Tesla Model S and BMW i3 – well behind the Ampera. With the “Green Mobility Trophy” Auto Zeitung honors models and propulsion concepts chosen by its readers that are trendsetting in their class in terms of particularly eco-friendly use of resources.

Title chaser Ampera: Trophy cabinet is getting crowded

Since its introduction in 2011, the Opel Ampera has become a real trophy collector. Its title highlights include “Car of the Year 2012”, “World Green Car of the Year” and victories in the readers’ choice awards from Auto Bild and Autoscout24.de.

“What customers expect from electric cars is clear: they want technology that is more environmentally friendly while offering all the benefits of conventional propulsion systems. The “Green Mobility Trophy” is latest proof that we more than meet these expectations with the Ampera,” says Andreas Marx, Director Marketing Opel Germany.

Opel Ampera: Impeccable environmental balance and driving dynamics

The Opel Ampera is the first electric vehicle that does not require any changes in habit or attitude. A unique 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack feeds an advanced, 111 kW/150 hp electric drive unit to deliver between 40 and 80 km of pure electric operation with zero emissions – depending on terrain, driving technique and temperature – when fully charged.

In extended-range mode, which activates whenever the battery has reached its minimum state of charge, power is seamlessly inverted to the electric drive unit from a generator driven by a gasoline engine. This enables a total driving range of more than 500 kilometers without refueling. The Ampera’s electric propulsion system delivers instant torque of 370 Nm that enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration in under 10 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h.

!NEW! Opel Ampera Braves Freezing Temperatures on Frozen Baltic Sea

Test drives on ice crossings in Estonia underscore winter suitability

Snow covered streets and icy roads are not uncommon in some European countries right now. In Estonia temperatures fall so low that parts of the Baltic Sea can be driven over on up to 50 days a year. This is unique in Europe. Opel now used the frozen Baltic Sea to prove the Ampera’s everyday suitability with a number of teams of journalists. The vehicles covered hundreds of kilometers without a hitch – impressive proof of the Ampera’s winter capabilities. Thanks to the constant battery temperature control system, even freezing temperatures are not a problem for Europe’s best selling electric vehicle.

From ice cover thickness of at least 25 centimeters cars can drive over the socalled ice crossings and so reach islands without having to use a ferry. On a number of stretches up to ten kilometers long, the Ampera proved that electric mobility isn’t stopped by cold. The car can run on pure battery electric propulsion at temperatures down to minus ten degrees.

When temperatures are even lower, the range extending gasoline engine supports the electric motor. In cold weather, the battery is preheated during charging to provide a full power capability. This preserves it during starting and benefits the battery’s capacity. Standard auxiliary heating warms the cabin, ensuring additional comfort and sparing the driver the tedious task of scraping ice off the car.

The Opel Ampera is electrically driven at all times. A unique 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack feeds an advanced, 111 kW/150 hp electric drive unit to deliver between 40 and 80 km of pure electric operation with zero emissions – depending on terrain, driving technique and temperature – when fully charged. According to the official R(EC) 715/2007 regulation for measuring fuel consumption and CO₂  emissions, the Ampera consumes 1.2 l/100 km fuel and emits 27 g/km CO₂. Instant torque of 370 Nm enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration in under ten seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h. The Ampera offers a unique driving experience in battery operation, delivering nearly silent electric drive and a highly refined NVH performance even in extended range drive mode.

 

!NEW! Opel Ampera at Rallye Monte-Carlo: Mission Title Defense

Electric Vehicle again competing in alternative propulsion category

Opel is taking part in the international Rallye Monte-Carlo for the second time with the Ampera EV. Following last year’s victory and three more top 10 finishes, this year eight Ampera teams are participating to defend the title for vehicles with alternative propulsion.

Organized by the Automobilclub Monaco, the “Rallye Monte-Carlo des Énergies Nouvelles” is taking place for the 14th time. It begins on March 21 in Annecy-le-Vieux, Clermont-Ferrand and Lugano, and ends three days later in Monaco. Due to a higher number of uniformity tests, this year focus on the vehicles’ driving efficiency is even stronger. The goal of the rallye is to cover a specified distance at a constant speed and with the lowest possible fuel consumption.

“The successes last year show the Ampera’s superiority over the competition under extreme conditions as well as in everyday use,” says Dr. Thomas Sedran, Management Board Member for Operations, Business Development & Corporate Strategies at Adam Opel AG. “We want to drive this forward and once again reinforce our leading role in alternative propulsion.”

In order to participate, vehicles may emit a maximum of 115 g/km CO2. The overall standings are determined by a ratio of vehicle weight, CO2 emissions, fuel energy density and consumption. The “Rallye Monte-Carlo des Énergies Nouvelles” is the oldest and most renowned motorsport event for vehicles with alternative propulsion systems. The Automobilclub Monaco has organized the event since 1995.

Opel is a pioneer and trendsetter in sustainable mobility with the Ampera’s multi-award-winning concept. The Ampera is the first electric car suitable for everyday use from a European automaker and the best-selling electric sedan in Europe. A 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack feeds the 111 kW/150 hp electric drive unit to deliver between 40 and 80 km of pure electric operation with zero emissions – depending on terrain, driving technique and temperature – when fully charged. For longer distances, a gasoline engine serves as a generator to keep the vehicle electrically powered. The Ampera’s electric propulsion system provides instant torque of 370 Nm and enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds. The electronically limited maximum speed is 161 km/h.

Opel Ampera Wins Rally Monte Carlo

• Four Ampera electric vehicles among the top 10 in rally for alternative propulsion
• French team Darniche/Lambert successful against some 130 competitors
• Debuting Ampera succeed in durability and fuel consumption tests

Opel Ampera won Rally Monte Carlo for alternative propulsion

After winning the “Car of the Year 2012” award, the Opel Ampera has now also won the 13. International Monte Carlo Rally for electric cars and alternative propulsion in which it competed for the first time. Four Ampera ranked among the top 10 vehicles. The French duo Bernard Darniche and Joseph Lambert managed to beat the entire competitive field. On Sunday, the final day of the contest, the revolutionary electric vehicle reached the finish line in the capital of the Côte d’Azur principality. Some 130 competitors from about 30 manufacturers took part, among them seven Ampera, including one private Ampera team. The other contenders included a Renault Fluence Z.E., a Tesla Roadster sports car, a Mitsubishi I-MiEV and a Peugeot Ion. Apart from the overall victory, the Ampera teams with Charlotte Berton and Olivier Sussot ranked third, Jean-Claude Andruet and Patrick Lienne came in 7^th and Hanns Werner Wirth and Daniel Riesen finished 8^th, completing the fantastic result.

Opel Ampera on Rally Monte Carlo - German Team

“The Ampera’s success in this versatility contest under very challenging conditions proves its impressive balance between durability and fuel efficiency. This underscores our leadership role in the field of alternative propulsion,” says Opel’s Director E-mobility, Enno Fuchs. The “Rallye Monte-Carlo Des Énergies Nouvelles” took place for the 13^th time and has established itself as the oldest motorsport event for vehicles with alternative propulsion. The Monte Carlo Automobile Club has organized the competition since 1995.

Endurance test for alternative propulsion

The rally started in the three towns of Annecy-le-Vieux, Clermont Ferrand and Lugano for 550 kilometers via Digne-les-Bains, the capital of the French district (département) Alpes-de-Haute-Provence to Monaco. On the second day, the teams had to complete a distance of 272 kilometers, leading them through Monaco and the original route of the Monte Carlo Rally through the French Maritime Alps. In these two days the teams were subjected to regularity tests and had to prove their driving skills by pushing their vehicles to the limit.

Apart from the regularity tests, the focus lay with fuel consumption. With the help of a ratio derived from vehicle weight, CO₂ emissions, the energy density of the fuel and its consumption, the organizers were able to calculate a comparison value and draw up an overall ranking. “The sophisticated technology of the Ampera was always reliable and enabled our tremendous success,” says the French rally co-pilot, Joseph Lambert who celebrated the victory with driver Bernhard Darniche. Darniche already won the legendary Monte Carlo Rally in 1979 and has more than 10 times been successful in winning the special stage over the famous Col de Turini.

Opel Ampera on Rally Monte Carlo - French Team

 

The Opel Ampera is the first electric vehicle that can go anywhere anytime. A 16 kWh lithium ion battery powers the 111kW/150 hp electric motor. Depending on the style of driving and road conditions, distance of between 40 and 80 kilometers can be covered in the purely battery-operated mode, completely free of emissions. The wheels of the Ampera are always powered electrically. In extended-range mode, which activates whenever the battery has reached its minimum state of charge, the gasoline engine drives a generator that supplies the electric drive unit. The range extender enables an operating radius of 500 kilometers. On the road, the Ampera’s electric propulsion system provides instant torque of 370 Nm enabling zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h.

Opel Ampera on Rally Monte Carlo - German Team