Opel has decided to give the Bolt a "go" and announced a production version of the full electric vehicle.
Compared to the North American model, the European version sports a new front fascia that is closely related to other models in Opel's lineup, an identical side profile and a similar rear end.
Inside, the company talks about connectivity and infotainment technologies with smartphone integration and OnStar service assistant, and promises seating for five and a trunk space comparable to that of a car in the compact segment, thanks to the battery pack mounted flat under its floor.
The new Opel Ampera-e will benefit from a longer range on a full charge than most electric cars (322km/200miles) and it will be much more affordable than other EVs. In U.S., the Chevy Bolt has a starting price of $37,500 (€33,275 equivalent) before government rebates.
"Electric vehicles have the potential to make a significant contribution to climate protection and emissions reduction. The new Opel Ampera-e will open the road to electric mobility by breaking down the barriers of high price and short driving range", stated Opel Group CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann, .
Opel didn’t release any power figures on the new Ampera-e, however, the US-spec version comes with 200hp (203PS) and 360Nm (266lb-ft) of torque, enough for a 0-100km/h (62mph) acceleration in approximately 7 seconds and a top speed of 145km/h (91mph).
On the Old Continent, the Opel Ampera-e will launch in 2017.