When production begins in 2011, the Opel Ampera is set to be the first mass-produced electric vehicle to hit European markets. Importantly, it is designed to be a car that the whole family can drive for everyday use.

“The Ampera shows that a practical, electric four-seater with cargo space can be the first automobile in the household. This is not just a theory, but a car that will be a reality in a year,” says Gherardo Corsini, Director, Electric Vehicle Implementation.

The Opel Ampera is just one part of Opel’s mission to be a European leader in alternative propulsions, using its expertise in innovative technologies and making them affordable.

Opel Ampera – electric drive for use any day of the week

The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera uses the ground-breaking electric propulsion technology which operates differently from other advanced propulsion systems. The Ampera electric propulsion system uses electricity as its primary power source. A gasoline engine-generator as a secondary power source generates electricity when the battery is depleted to ensure a seamless and continuous drive.

The Ampera’s wheels are turned electrically at all times and speeds. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), the Ampera runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits neither greenhouse gases nor other harmful emissions. The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving habits of European customers. For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km a day.

Ampera gives driver confidence and peace of mind

Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates range anxiety. It gives drivers the confidence and peace of mind that a depleted battery will not strand them.  

When the battery’s energy is low, electricity from an on-board engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km.

A gasoline/E85-fueled engine-generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range to 500 kilometers until the battery can be re-charged by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household 230v outlet.

More than 220 lithium-ion cells in the T-shaped pack provide ample power. The nearly silent electric drive unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 hp, zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds, and a top speed of 161 km/h.

Opel estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in the Ampera will cost about one-fifth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle at current fuel prices.

The Ampera can be plugged into any household 230v outlet and re-charged in about three hours. Opel is analyzing the requirements for standardization and a recharging infrastructure for plug-in electric cars with energy companies, including Iberdrola of Spain.

The Ampera extended-range electric vehicle will use the energy stored in its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery to drive the first stage of the 600 kilometers journey from Rüsselsheim, Germany, to the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland, without emitting CO₂.

At the wheel will be Opel/Vauxhall Director of Electric Vehicle Implementation, Gherardo Corsini. “I am really looking forward to putting a lot of “miles” on our first Ampera prototype during this maiden test on public roads,” said Corsini. “With 370 Nm of instantaneous, electric torque under my right foot, it promises to be an interesting and almost silent drive to Geneva."

When the battery’s charge is low after around 60 km, the Ampera’s on-board internal combustion engine will start to generate electricity to drive the wheels for the remainder of the journey.

A battery electric vehicle would need to find a recharging station and stop for up to several hours to recharge its depleted battery before continuing the journey. The Ampera, however, brings emission-free electric mobility without the limitations of conventional electric cars. It can drive on seamlessly and without interruption for more than 500 km before plugging into a household socket or filling up with fuel.

The prototype’s long-distance drive from Rüsselsheim to Geneva demonstrates that the five-door, four-seat Ampera can be the primary vehicle in the household, ready to drive anywhere, any time. Series-production of the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera is scheduled to begin at the end of 2011.

Opel's own bloggers will accompany the Ampera on its first long distance test under real world conditions. Starting at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 28, the blog will give regular updates about the journey to Geneva and continue until March 3, the day before the motor show begins. The blog can be found at:

www.opel.posterous.com

twitter.com/opelblogs

Rüsselsheim.  The revolutionary Opel Ampera stands next to the new Astra as the focal point of interest at the Opel stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). Under the aerodynamic sophisticated hood of the Ampera, stands the technology of the future: An innovative electric battery which can be driven for everyday use by a family of four up. For journeys up to 60 km. it runs on electricity stored in a battery and emits no CO2. When the battery’s is depleted, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km.
 
Opel now answers the many questions which come with a new car and its new technology with a new dedicated website, ampera.opel.info.The site, separated into different thematic areas, contains texts, graphics, photos and videos that simply and clearly illustrate the pioneering technological concept and its advantages for the driver and the environment.

  • Opel Ampera: Provides general information about the vehicle.
  • What is Voltec?: Describes the revolutionary Voltec drive technology.
  • What are the benefits?: Outlines how the Ampera combines environmental
    protection with cost savings, and still offers powerful performance with driving fun.
  • What about the batteries?: Informs about the lithium-ion batteries
  • Why electric? Details the benefits of electrifying the automobile.
  • Not a hybrid, but an E-REV!: Explains the key difference between new technologies.

Special videos explain the functions of the vehicle and its electric motor. The Ampera films describe the complex workings in straightforward and easy-to-understand language. The goal: Anyone who is interested in the Ampera, which will come to the market in 2011, should be able to understand its innovative technology.

Contact:

Jeong-Hyun So
+49 6142 7 61416 (office)
+49 151 1225 3290 (mobile)
jeonghyun.so@de.gm.com

Rüsselsheim.  Opel has begun testing two development cars of the Ampera extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) at its Dudenhofen proving ground, keeping the revolutionary four-seater on schedule for a late 2011 production date.

Engineers have installed the Ampera’s revolutionary Voltec electric propulsion system – including the battery, motor, engine and electric-generator – inside the body of an existing production car. They call this kind of a development car a mule because, like their name-sake animals, the mules are a mixture of two species. Mule cars helps engineers test technology at an early stage of vehicle development.

Specifically, engineers in Rüsselsheim are testing the Voltec system’s performance and the overall driving impression. In addition, engineers in Mainz-Kastel have developed and are further testing the lithium-ion battery. 

“The Ampera development cars show that a practical, electric four-seater, with cargo space and the capability to be the first automobile in the household, is not just theory, but a car that will be reality by 2011,” says Frank Weber, Vehicle Line Executive for Ampera development. 

Development evolves through three stages

The Ampera is being developed in three distinct phases, or mules. The first stage involves the engineering development vehicles, which are used to analyze the behavior of specific subsystems and get them to work together. These are not complete vehicle tests but work to prove individual subsystems.

In the next phase, integration cars are built with all of the systems coming together. They contain a lot of hand built parts, but are "design intent." In the final development stage cars look and operate for all intents and purposes nearly exactly the same as the production cars. This phase brings everything together. All the final aero- and wind tunnel work can be done with them. They are the last phase before production.

Opel Ampera – electric drive for use any day of the week

The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera uses the ground-breaking electric propulsion technology called Voltec which operates differently from other advanced propulsion system, like a hybrid. This Voltec electric propulsion system uses electricity as its primary power source. A gasoline engine-generator acting as a secondary power source will generate electricity when the battery is depleted to ensure a seamless and continuous drive.

The Ampera’s wheels are turned electrically at all times and speeds. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), it runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits neither harmful greenhouse gases nor any regulated emissions. The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving habits of European customers.  For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km a day.

Ampera gives driver confidence and peace of mind

Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates “range anxiety,” giving the confidence and peace of mind that a depleted battery will not strand the driver.

When the battery’s energy is low, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km. A gasoline/E85-fueled engine-generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range to 500 kilometers until the battery can be charged by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household 230v outlet.

"An advanced lithium-ion battery system is the key to getting the Ampera into the hands of consumers”, said Hans Demant, GME’s vice president of engineering. “The engineers at our research and development center in Mainz-Kastel, Germany are testing the battery around the clock, 365 days a year to ensure that it meets the expectations of our customers.”

More than 220 lithium-ion cells in the T-shaped pack provide ample power. The nearly silent electric drive unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 horsepower, zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds, and a top speed of 161 km/h.

Opel estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in the Ampera will cost about one-fifth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle at current fuel prices.

The Ampera can be plugged into any household 230v outlet and is fully re-charged in about three hours. Opel is analyzing the requirements for standardization and a recharging infrastructure for plug-in electric cars with energy companies, including Iberdrola of Spain.

Contacts:

Andrew Marshall
+49 6142 7 73815 (office)
+49 171 221 3605 (mobile)
andrew.marshall@gm.com

Jean-Philippe Kempf
+49 (0)6142 766651 (office)
+49 (0)160 906 08956 (mobile)
Jean-Philippe.Kempf@de.gm.com

Rüsselsheim. With the debut of the new Opel Astra at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show (September 17 – 27), the German brand will offer a super efficient palette of engines with remarkably low fuel consumption in the compact class. Together with the Opel Ampera, also starring at the show, the company reaffirms its strong commitment to clean mobility.

To mark  ten generations of Opel compact cars, the new Astra will launch later this year with a complete line-up of eight engines ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 132 kW/180 hp, perfectly illustrating the brand’s philosophy of providing drivers with affordable, real-life efficiency still preserving the fun-to-drive experience. The new Astra has grown slightly to provide a roomier interior and, at the same time, it has benefited from engineering enhancements that allow it to improve fuel efficiency and performance.

The Astra’s line up of powertrains with manual transmission provides impressive performance and cuts fuel consumption and CO2 emissions overall by more than 12 percent compared with the current generation. The average fuel consumption of the four diesel engines ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 118 kW/160 hp, which are expected to represent almost half of the new Astra cars sold in Europe at launch, is only 4.6 l/100 km.

The average fuel consumption of the gasoline line-up is only 6.1 l/100 km. Continuing Opel’s strategy of downsizing, a new 103 kW/140hp 1.4 Turbo gasoline engine replaces the current 1.8 liter variant, improving fuel efficiency by nearly 18 percent.

“Our strategy is to offer a complete Astra range with fuel efficient engines at an accessible price, rather than focusing all attention on one single, spectacular, yet expensive, low CO2 version. With this we are continuing to provide real-life fuel consumption reduction while preserving a great fun-to-drive experience” says Carl-Peter Forster, Chairman of Opel’s Supervisory Board.

Opel optimizes power and efficiency

The powertrain line-up features engines with high specific power outputs, low fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions. All engines meet the Euro 5 emission norms. Most come standard with six-speed manual transmissions, although five speeds are standard on the naturally-aspirated 1.4 and 1.6-liter gasoline and the 1.3 turbo diesel. A six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option with the 1.6, 1.4 Turbo and 1.6 Turbo gasoline engines and with the 2.0 turbo diesel motor.

“Constant enhancement of the existing engine line-up and downsizing are essential parts of our effort to improve our ecological footprint. We are very proud of the achievements reached by our engineering staff while developing the new Opel Astra, making it an outstanding entry in the very competitive compact segment” says Hans Demant, Opel Managing Director.

160 hp diesel needs less than five liters for 100 km

The CDTI turbo diesel line-up includes 1.3-, 1.7- and 2.0-liter units, all common-rail with multiple fuel injection ranging in power from 70 kW/95 hp to 118 kW/160 hp. All engines are equipped with a particulate filter as standard. Even the 2.0 CDTI with 118 kW/160 hp only requires 4.9 l/100 km on average and emits no more than 129 g/km CO2.

A first ecoFLEX generation with CO2 emissions of only 109 g/km and an average fuel consumption of only 4.2 l/100 km will be added to the range in spring 2010.

*preliminary figures

Newly developed 1.4 liter turbo gasoline comes with high torque

The gasoline range comprises naturally-aspirated and turbocharged 1.4 and 1.6-liter engines, giving a power bandwidth from 74 kW/100 hp to 132 kW/180 hp.

The 74kW/100hp entry level version in the gasoline line-up emits only consumes 5.5 l/100 km and does not emit more than129 g/km CO2. This makes it the most fuel efficient gasoline compact on the market.

Highlighting Opel’s continued strategy of reducing CO2 emissions through engine capacity downsizing, an all-new 1.4-liter Turbo engine will join the line-up, producing a generous 103 kW/140 hp and some 200 Nm of torque available between 1,850 and 4,900 rpm. This engine replaces the naturally aspirated 1.8-liter unit (140 hp/175 Nm) from the current range with similar output yet featuring 15 percent more torque with an impressively low fuel consumption of 5.9 l/100km, for nearly 18 percent improvement.

*preliminary figures

Opel Ampera: Potentially zero CO2 emission-car uses Voltec technology

Demonstrating Opel’s leadership in the electrification of the automobile, the revolutionary Opel Ampera, a true four-seater family car, will bring emission-free electric mobility without the limitations of conventional electric cars. It is an automobile suitable for driving any distance anytime.

The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera uses the ground-breaking electric propulsion technology called Voltec which operates differently from other advanced propulsion system. This extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) uses electricity as its primary power source and gasoline as a secondary power source to generate electricity.

The Ampera’s wheels are turned electrically at all times and speeds. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), it runs exclusively on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits zero CO2. When the battery’s energy is low, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km. The Ampera can also be plugged into any household 230v outlet for charging.

Opel’s extended range electric vehicle is announced to go into production in late 2011.

Contacts:

Nathalie Van Impe
Manager Opel Communications
+49 (0) 6142 7 66166
nathalie.van.impe@de.opel.com

Andrew Marshall
Director GME Technology Communications
+49 (0) 6142 7 73815
andrew.marshall@gm.com

London. The revolutionary Opel/Vauxhall Ampera Extended Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV) was crowned Monday the inaugural winner of a new and prestigious green motoring award.

Top British car magazine What Car? honored the Ampera with its Green Technology Award, praising the Ampera’s innovative and usable approach to green motoring, as well as its ability to overcome the range anxiety suffered by users of conventional electric cars.

Unlike a plug-in electric vehicle, Ampera’s E-REV system, called Voltec, uses an on-board gasoline generator to prevent the battery from discharging completely. This means that in addition to a 60-kilometer electric-only range, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km.

With more than 70 per cent of European car journeys far less than the Ampera’s electric-only range, the majority of drivers will be able to use the four-seater with zero exhaust emissions and no gasoline consumption. At the same time, they will have the peace of mind of knowing it is capable of undertaking longer journeys without recharging.
 
The Green Awards highlight and recognize the UK motor industry’s efforts in making cars more environmentally friendly. The awards were presented by London’s Mayor Boris Johnson and What Car? editor Steve Fowler at a ceremony in the UK capital. “Of the myriad approaches to cutting CO2 from our cars, the Ampera’s Voltec system is one of the cleverest. It’s simple, should be effective, and as it can be adapted to be used with fuel cells, it’s pretty future proof, too,” Fowler said.

In accepting the award, GM Europe Director of Advanced Vehicle Development, Gherardo Corsini, said, “This is a real honor for all involved in the development of Ampera and is further proof that the Voltec drive system is widely becoming recognized, both across the industry and by the general public, as the most usable and realistic form of alternative propulsion available in the near-term future.”

Ampera production is due to begin in 2011. The first UK cars go on sale from early 2012.

Contact:

Andrew Marshall
Technology Communications
Tel: +49 (0) 6142-7-73815
Mobile: +49 (0) 171-2213605
andrew.marshall@de.gm.com

WARREN, Mich. – General Motors expanded its significant battery research and development capabilities today by opening the largest and most technologically advanced  battery lab in the United States on its Technical Center campus here.

The new Global Battery Systems Lab will lead GM’s global advanced battery engineering resources and expedite the introduction of electrically driven vehicles, including the Chevrolet Volt, as well as plug-in hybrid and hybrid-electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles.

“The new global GM battery lab will benefit consumers across America by helping us advance the development of battery technology in the United States and put cleaner, more efficient vehicles on the road more quickly and affordably,” said Fritz Henderson, GM president and CEO. “Our new lab improves GM’s competitiveness by speeding the development of our hybrid, plug-in and extended-range electric vehicles, including the Chevrolet Volt.”

The Global Battery Systems Lab spans 33,000 sq. ft. – four times larger than GM’s previous Tech Center battery lab – and will be used by GM’s growing team of more than 1,000 engineers working on advanced batteries and electrically driven vehicles.

Planning began in December 2007 and construction started in August 2008. Operations began in January – nine months ahead of schedule. The lab became fully functional in May, equipped with 160 test channels and 42 thermal chambers duplicating extreme real-world driving patterns, hot and cold temperatures and calendar life. The lab’s maximum power capacity is 6 megawatts, or enough electricity to provide power to approximately 1,400 homes.

“This facility is state-of-the-art and represents one of the largest and most capable battery test labs in the world,” said Jim Queen, GM group vice president, Global Engineering. “More than half of the lab is dedicated to testing the electrochemical battery cells and their enclosures, known as modules, a capability not available in GM’s previous battery lab. The lab’s remaining floor space is committed to evaluating completed battery packs.”

The Global Battery Systems Lab was built within GM’s Alternative Energy Center facility, and includes many environmentally friendly features such as a center hallway with high-efficiency LED lighting and a floor made from recycled tires. Approximately 90 percent of the electricity used for battery testing can be returned to the local energy grid for use by homeowners and businesses.

Additional new benefits offered by the Global Battery Systems Lab include a thermal shaker table for battery structural integrity testing, a battery teardown area for failure analysis and competitor benchmarking, an integrated test automation system and improved Design of Experiments methodology – an information-gathering exercise that allows GM to perform more thorough battery tests more quickly.

The Global Battery Systems Lab complements GM’s other battery labs in Mainz-Kastel, Germany, Honeoye Falls, N.Y., and the Warren Technical Center’s Research Chemical Engineering facility. The opening of the Global Battery Systems Lab is the latest move in GM’s comprehensive battery strategy, which includes ramping up “in-house” responsibility for advanced battery technology and a broad portfolio of supplier partners.

At the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, GM:

• Announced plans to establish the world’s first lithium-ion battery pack manufacturing plant operated by a major automaker in the U.S.
• Selected LG Chem to supply lithium-ion battery cells, electronic components and control hardware for the Chevrolet Volt
• Signed a joint engineering development contract with Compact Power and LG Chem to further expedite the development of the Volt’s lithium-ion battery technology
• Joined with the University of Michigan to create a new automotive advanced battery lab in Ann Arbor, Mich., and a specialized curriculum within U of M's College of Engineering to develop automotive battery engineers.

Energy alternatives and advanced technologies that reduce dependence on petroleum, improve fuel economy and reduce emissions are keys to developing sustainable transportation. GM is pursuing several options to best meet the varied needs of customers around the world - from advanced gasoline, diesel and biofuel technology to electrically assisted vehicles such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids and – ultimately – electrically driven extended-range electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. GM believes that electrically driven vehicles, based on battery and hydrogen fuel cell technology, offer the best long-term solution for providing sustainable personal transportation.

Facts: Global Battery Systems Battery Lab Location

Alternative Energy Center, GM Technical Center, Warren, Mich.

Timing

• Battery system test area operational January, 2009
• Cell and module test area May, 2009

Size

Total floor space: 33,000 sq. ft.
• 14,400 sq. ft. – pack testing and development
• 17,400 sq. ft. – cell and module development
• 2,000 sq. ft. – technical support

Benefits
 
• Increased pack testing
o 32 cyclers (serve as treadmills for batteries)
o 64 test channels (available for individual battery tests)
o 25 thermal chambers (duplicates extreme temperature conditions)
• New cell and module testing
o 32 cyclers
o 96 test channels
o 16 small thermal chambers
• Environmental control capability – to allow for test correlation and repeatability
o New humidity-controlled walk-in chambers
o New air flow benches to provide specific temperatures and levels of humidity to test air-cooled battery packs
o New coolant chillers to cool or heat liquid-cooled battery packs

Enhanced capability

• Integrated test automation system enables around-the-clock standardized testing, customized test schedules and monitoring tests from desk or at home
• New thermal shaker table for structural integrity testing
• Improved Design of Experiments methodology – an information-gathering exercise that allows GM to perform more thorough battery tests in a shorter period of time
• Battery teardown area for failure analysis and competitor benchmarking

Contacts:

Brian Corbett
GM Hybrid and Battery Technology Communications
Mobile: 586-612-6569
E-mail: brian.corbett@gm.com

Rob Peterson
GM Technology and Advanced Propulsion Communications
Mobile: 313-402-6326
E-mail: robert.d.peterson@gm.com

Stavanger, Norway. The Opel Ampera extended-range electric vehicle attracted the attention of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of Norway during his visit to the Opel stand at the Electric Vehicle Symposium 24, the world's premier conference on zero-emission technologies being held in Stavanger, Norway, today.

Meanwhile, the next stage of the Opel Ampera’s development begins next month in Europe with the arrival of engineering prototypes from the United States, Frank Weber, GM Global Vehicle Line Executive, Electric Vehicle Development, said during his keynote address. 

Engineers at GM Europe’s Technical Development Center in Russelsheim will use the vehicles to develop the Ampera’s ride and handling dynamics. Since 2008 GM has built more than 30 extended-range electric vehicle prototypes with the production-intent Voltec propulsion system.

“Electric vehicles like the Opel Ampera and the Chevrolet Volt have tremendous potential to displace petroleum and move transportation toward zero emissions,” Weber said.  “We’ve set out to make a relevant electric vehicle that is safe, predictable and capable of being the primary vehicle for customers in Europe."

At the Opel stand, His Royal Highness listened while Weber explained the Ampera's high-tech features, such as the Voltec propulsion system consisting of a T-shaped battery pack, a 111 kW electric drive unit and an on-board engine generator of electricity. 

The five-door, four-seat Ampera is a new type of electric car that is environmentally friendly and fun to drive.  The Ampera will deliver up to 60 km of emission-free driving, via the 16 kW/h lithium-ion battery. Its electric motor can propel the Ampera more than 500 kilometers, thanks to an on-board engine-generator.
 
The Ampera and the Chevrolet Volt are scheduled to go into production in late 2011. The Ampera also will be offered in the United Kingdom by Vauxhall in 2012.

Contact:

Andrew Marshall
GME Product Development and Technology Communications
++49 6142 7-73815 (Office)
++49 171 22 13 605 (Mobile)

Geneva. With the premiere of the Opel Ampera, General Motors Europe presented today at the Geneva Motor Show its line-up of products poised to move the company forward in these tough economic times.

“The Ampera is a new category of car that closes the gap between hybrids and battery electric vehicles,” said Carl-Peter Forster, President of GM Europe at the GM press conference.  “Its ground-breaking Voltec electric propulsion system is the kind of game-changing technology the automotive industry needs to respond to energy and environmental challenges.” 

For journeys up to 60 km, the five-door, four-seat hatchback runs on electricity stored in a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery and emits zero CO2. When the battery’s energy is depleted, electricity from an on-board engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 kilometers. When it arrives in dealerships in 2011, the Ampera will be the first extended-range electric car in Europe.

While concentrating on measures to right-size the business, GM remains focused now on providing high quality, attractive brands and leading technologies especially in the field of environmental compatibility, Forster added.

For example, under Opel’s ecoFLEX roof, the brand houses a range of low emission, fun-to-drive cars, like the new Opel Insignia ecoFLEX, which features a 2.0-liter CDTI turbo diesel engine that produces 160 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. This car is among the leaders in the mid-size sedan segment with emissions of less than 140 g/km of CO2.

The Opel Corsa 1.3 CDTI gives 75 horsepower and emits only 109 g/km CO2. The Opel Astra 1.7 CDTI with 119 g/km CO2. offers ten percent lower consumption yet has 22 percent higher output than the previous engine. The Zafira CNG Turbo combines clean Compressed Natural Gas with a turbo kick, giving this family van 150 horsepower, a top speed of 200 km/h and emissions of 144 g/km of CO2.

World Premiere of the Chevrolet Spark

Also premiering in Geneva, Chevrolet’s mini-car, the Spark, features a new 1.2 liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with fuel consumption below 5 liters per 100 km and less than 120g of CO2 emission. Production of the Spark starts in October, with the first cars on European roads in early 2010.

Chevrolet now offers across its entire range cars powered by Liquefied Petroleum Gas – a fuel that offers a cost-effective, cleaner alternative to petrol or diesel. At around 60 euro cents per litre, LPG costs about half that of gasoline – with no impact to performance – and a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions over a petrol engine.
 
Saab provides first view of 9-3X, enunciates Eco-Power Technology

Saab’s latest entry onto the world market is the 9-3X, a versatile sport wagon equipped to handle rough terrain with a raised ride height and sure-footed grip, combining for the first time Saab’s cutting edge XWD system with E85 alternative fuel.

The 9-3X and new diesel models with lower CO2 offered on the 9-3 are the latest moves Saab has taken to enunciate its Eco-Power Technology strategy, which embraces turbocharging, engine rightsizing, Saab BioPower, aerodynamic performance and weight reduction.

European premiere of the Cadillac SRX

Also on the luxury end of the GM portfolio, Cadillac presents the European premiere of the Cadillac SRX crossover featuring improved efficiency, maximum safety and a design that is dynamic and expresses power. With the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, GM has developed the world’s first hybrid luxury SUV, powered by the brand’s innovative 2-Mode Hybrid system, developed in collaboration with other premium manufacturers, led by GM. It delivers over 40 percent better fuel economy in city driving, with no sacrifices to performance.

Contact:

Frank Klaas
Phone: +41 44 828 25 88
Mobile: +49 170-560-5552
Fax: +41 44 828 25 80
frank.klaas@gm.com

Geneva/Rüsselsheim.  The revolutionary Opel Ampera today celebrated its world premiere at the 79th Geneva Motor Show. General Motors Europe president, Carl-Peter Forster, unveiled the extended-range electric vehicle and announced plans to put the car into production in late 2011.

The Ampera will also be offered with right-hand drive in the United Kingdom by Opel’s sister-brand, Vauxhall.

“The Opel Ampera further demonstrates GM’s leadership in the electrification of the automobile,” said Carl-Peter Forster. “Its ground-breaking Voltec electric propulsion system is the kind of game-changing technology the automotive industry needs to respond to energy and environmental challenges.”

The five-door, four-seat Ampera is influenced by Opel’s award-winning design language of sculptural artistry meets German precision, incorporating several styling cues from the innovative Flextreme and GTC Concept show cars.

“There could not be a more fitting way to celebrate Opel’s 110 years of innovation in the car industry than by revealing the Ampera,” said Alain Visser, GME Vice President Opel.

The Ampera’s wheels are turned electrically at all times and speeds. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), it runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits zero CO2. When the battery’s energy is depleted, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km.

The Ampera can be plugged into any household 230v outlet for charging. GM Europe is analyzing the requirements of a recharging infrastructure for plug-in electric cars with energy companies, including Iberdrola of Spain.

Contacts:

Jean-Philippe Kempf
+49 (0)6142 766651 (office)
+49 (0)160 906 08956 (mobile)
e-Mail: Jean-Philippe.Kempf@de.gm.com

Andrew Marshall
+49 6142 7 73815 (office)
+49 171 221 3605 (mobile)
e-Mail: andrew.marshall@gm.com

Vijay Iyer
+49 6142 7 73864 (office)
+49 170 339 5900 (mobile)
e-Mail:vijay.iyer@de.gm.com 

Geneva/Rüsselsheim.  The revolutionary Opel Ampera will be the first emission-free, electrically driven automobile in Europe suitable for everyday driving. With its Voltec electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration and high levels of refinement, the five-door Ampera seats four passengers in comfort, offers a useful trunk for their luggage, and features an extended range of more than 500 kilometers.

"Driving electrically is not only about ecology," said global vehicle line executive and chief engineer, Frank Weber. "Driving electrically is also great fun. Instantaneous, silent torque of 370 Newton meters under your right foot feels like flying!"

Electricity drives the Ampera’s wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to 60 km (MVEG), power is supplied by the electricity stored in the cutting-edge, 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery.

While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Ampera emits zero CO2. When the battery’s energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-fueled engine-generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range to 500 kilometers, until the battery can be charged by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household 230v outlet.

Ampera gives driver confidence and peace of mind

Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates “range anxiety,” giving the confidence and peace of mind that the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery.

"An advanced lithium-ion battery system is the key to getting the Ampera into the hands of consumers”, said Hans Demant, GME’s vice president of engineering. “The engineers at our research and development center in Mainz-Kastel, Germany are testing the battery around the clock, 365 days a year to ensure that it meets the expectations of our customers.”

The Ampera's battery pack will be manufactured by GM at the first lithium-ion production facility to be operated by a major automaker in the United States. More than 220 lithium-ion cells in the T-shaped pack provide ample power. The nearly silent electric drive unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 horsepower, zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds, and a top speed of 161 km/h.

The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers.  For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.

Opel estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in the Ampera will cost about one-fifth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle, at current fuel prices.

General 

Performance 

Dimensions

Battery system

Electric drive unit

Exterior

Contacts:

Jean-Philippe Kempf
+49 (0)6142 766651 (office)
+49 (0)160 906 08956 (mobile)
e-Mail: Jean-Philippe.Kempf@de.gm.com

Andrew Marshall
+49 6142 7 73815 (office)
+49 171 221 3605 (mobile)
e-Mail: andrew.marshall@gm.com

Vijay Iyer
+49 6142 7 73864 (office)
+49 170 339 5900 (mobile)
e-Mail: vijay.iyer@de.gm.com

Geneva/Rüsselsheim.  GM’s design team has created a practical, efficient electric car that builds on Opel’s award-winning design direction. The Opel Ampera offers optimal passenger space, futuristic equipment features in an aerodynamic, premium design.
 
“The Opel Ampera shows all the opportunities advanced propulsion technologies offer for car design. We had to maximize the aerodynamic efficiency but still offer ultimate everyday driving comfort,” said Phil Zak, Director, Exterior Design at GM Europe. “All of that is presented in an upscale, sporty look that builds on Opel’s theme of sculptural forms and expressive lines.”
 
Sculptural artistry gives Ampera its dynamic exterior

The Ampera’s exterior design takes up cues from the Opel Flextreme and GTC Concept show cars. For example, it features dramatic, boomerang-like headlights that seamlessly integrate with the lower fog lights. The car has a dynamic, almost aggressive low stance seen most prominently in the front and tail. The new, bold Opel logo emblazes the front grill and the chrome bar across the back.

Vertical slots in the outboard edges of the rear bumper not only give the car a low sporty look but also play a key role in creating a clean separation feature for the air, supporting the highly efficient aerodynamic performance. Its unique Pearl White Diamond color with matching rocker panels and rear bumper underline the dynamic appeal of the car.
Maximum efficiency through optimal aerodynamics

Aerodynamics, too, play a particularly important role in maximizing driving range. GM engineers and designers worked together to optimize the air flow around the front fascia and outside mirrors of the Ampera. Significant attention was also given to the rear with a specifically designed spoiler and clean separation features. Lightweight materials were added in the form of clear polycarbonate covers to the front grille and disk inserts on the 17-inch, five-spoke sport alloy wheels. These helped to reduce aerodynamic drag in critical airflow areas. 

All amenities of an upscale hatchback combined with the latest technology

The Ampera offers the space, comfort, and convenience features that customers expect in a car with five-doors, four-seats and storage capacity of 301 liters. The interior features a Jet Black interior combined with Spice Red accents and Dark Argent Metallic paint on the instrument panel’s center stack for a sporty look.

The doors’ décor picks up on the car’s electric nature through the use of iconic themes. With an integrated shifter, two information displays and touch-sensitive infotainment center, the Ampera delivers an all-electrical user experience.

“On the Ampera we’ve continued to challenge the norm and have searched for new and exciting color and material combinations. To support the car’s innovative character we’ve worked with experimental trims and paints that you will see more of in future Opel models” said John Puskar, Director, Interior Design for GM Europe.

Contacts:

Jean-Philippe Kempf
+49 (0)6142 766651 (office)
+49 (0)160 906 08956 (mobile)
e-Mail: Jean-Philippe.Kempf@de.gm.com

Andrew Marshall
+49 6142 7 73815 (office)
+49 171 221 3605 (mobile)
e-Mail: andrew.marshall@gm.com

Vijay Iyer
+49 6142 7 73864 (office)
+49 170 339 5900 (mobile)
e-Mail: vijay.iyer@de.gm.com

The Opel Ampera represents a significant departure from conventional hybrids. In an E-REV, the wheels are turned by an electric drive unit, whereas in conventional hybrids the wheels are turned by an electric motor, a gasoline engine, or both.  For short trips, E-REVs will run on battery power alone. For longer trips, additional electricity can be supplied by an internal combustion engine. The battery and propulsion systems are sized so that when sufficient energy is available from the battery, the engine is not required for operation.  During this electric only phase of driving, the battery, motor, and power electronics are designed to deliver full performance, acceleration, top speed, hill climbing on electric power alone.

How Voltec Works

Energy is stored on board in a 16-kWh, “T”-shaped lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack powers the electric drive unit, which is capable of meeting full vehicle speed and acceleration performance while driving the car electrically for up to 60 km (MVEG cycle) without using a drop of gas. For longer trips, the E-REV’s on-board range-extending engine is used to drive an electric generator when the battery’s energy has been depleted. The range extender, which can be powered by gas/E85 Ethanol, is able to generate additional electricity to power the car for more than 500 km.

Benefits

There are many benefits of an E-REV. The main benefits include energy diversification, reduced oil consumption, and reduced emissions.

GM estimates that the Opel Ampera will save about 1700 liters of gasoline based on 60 km of daily driving and 22,000 km annually. For drivers that commute 100 km per day or 36,500 km annually, about 2200 liters of gasoline could be saved.

As a baseline comparison, GM estimates that the cost per km to operate a car with Voltec electric propulsion system is approximately 0.02 euro per km electrically versus 0.09 euro per km using gasoline priced at € 1.16/l.

Not a “hybrid”

In practice, hybrid vehicles typically require both sources – engine and battery – to provide full vehicle performance capability. In a hybrid vehicle, the combustion engine is typically the larger of the two propulsion sources, and provides most of the power during high power vehicle maneuvers like off-line starts and freeway cruising. A plug-in hybrid operates the same way, but can be recharged by plugging in. Even with useful energy in the battery, the engine will often be operating to achieve vehicle peak loads. An E-REV is unique from a hybrid or plug-in hybrid in that the vehicle’s wheels are always driven electrically by an electric drive unit.

Contacts:

Jean-Philippe Kempf
+49 (0)6142 766651 (office)
+49 (0)160 906 08956 (mobile)
e-Mail: Jean-Philippe.Kempf@de.gm.com

Andrew Marshall
+49 6142 7 73815 (office)
+49 171 221 3605 (mobile)
e-Mail: andrew.marshall@gm.com

Vijay Iyer
+49 6142 7 73864 (office)
+49 170 339 5900 (mobile)
e-Mail: vijay.iyer@de.gm.com

The revolutionary Opel Ampera, which will premiere March 5 at the Geneva Motor Show, will be the first emission-free, electrically propelled automobile in Europe suitable for everyday driving. For journeys up to 60 km, the five-door, four-seat hatchback runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits zero CO2. When the battery’s energy is depleted, electricity from an on-board engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km.

Contact:

Jean-Philippe Kempf
+49 (0)6142 766651 – office
+49 (0)160 906 08956 – mobile

Rüsselsheim.  Opel has announced Ampera as the name of its revolutionary extended-range electric car.  The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera will be revealed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show (March 5-15).

“With the Ampera, Opel will be the first European automobile manufacturer to provide customers several hundred kilometers of non-stop electric driving,” said Alain Visser, GM Europe Chief Marketing Officer.

GM’s ground-breaking electric propulsion technology, called Voltec, operates differently from other advanced propulsion systems. For short trips up to 60 km, the Ampera will run only on lithium-ion battery power charged via a standard 230v outlet. For longer distances, the car will continue to drive on electricity that is generated by a small internal combustion engine.
 
The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers.  For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.

Additional information on the Opel Ampera will be released March 3 at the Geneva Motor Show.

Contacts:

Jean-Philippe Kempf
Phone: +49 (0) 6142-7-66651
Mobile : +49 (0) 160-90608956

Andrew Marshall
Phone: +49 (0) 6142-7-73815
Mobile : +49 (0) 171-2213605

DETROIT – The Chevrolet Volt, an extended-range electric vehicle that delivers up to 40 miles of gasoline- and emissions-free electric driving, will use battery packs manufactured in the United States by General Motors, Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner announced at the North American International Auto Show.

GM will establish the first lithium-ion battery pack manufacturing facility operated by a major automaker in the United States to produce the Volt’s battery pack system. It consists of lithium-ion cells that are grouped into modules, along with other key battery components.

The plant will be located in Michigan, subject to negotiations with state and local government authorities. Facility preparation will begin in early 2009, with production tooling to be installed mid-year and output starting in 2010.

“The design, development and production of advanced batteries must be a core competency for GM, and we’ve been rapidly building our capability and resources to support this direction,” Wagoner said. “This is a further demonstration of our commitment to the electrification of the automobile and to the Chevrolet Volt – a commitment that now totals more than $1 billion.”

The Volt’s lithium-ion battery cells will be supplied by LG Chem. Compact Power Inc., a subsidiary of LG Chem based in Troy, Mich., will build battery packs for Volt prototype vehicles until GM’s battery facility is operational. A joint engineering contract with Compact Power and LG Chem also has been signed to further expedite the development of the Volt’s lithium-ion battery technology.

GM has been testing battery packs for the Volt, powered by cells from LG Chem, for the past 16 months. These tests – both on the road and in the lab – have provided invaluable insight into lithium-ion battery technology.  

 “Our selection of LG Chem was based on performance, production readiness, efficiency, durability and LG Chem’s demonstrated track record of exceptional quality,” Wagoner said. “At GM, we believe the technical strengths of LG Chem, combined with our own engineering and manufacturing expertise, will help position us as a key player in the development of electrically driven vehicles today and in the future.”

GM’s advanced battery strategy

“Our announcements are part of a comprehensive advanced battery strategy for GM that is expanding along two pathways,” Wagoner said. “First, we’re identifying core competencies – such as battery research, development and assembly – and integrating these fundamentals into our product development and manufacturing operations. We believe this will become a competitive advantage for GM, and will be critical to GM’s long-term success. Secondly, we’re building a roster of battery suppliers and academic experts from around the globe, and leveraging their specialized abilities to develop battery chemistries and cell designs, as well as future automotive battery engineers.”

Key elements of GM’s advanced battery strategy include:

• Opening the largest automotive battery lab in the United States (31,000 square feet / 3,251 square meters) that will be capable of testing new energy storage system technologies, as well as lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride batteries, to accelerate the domestic development of advanced battery technology and lead GM’s network of existing labs in Honeoye Falls, N.Y.; Warren, Mich.; Torrance, Calif.; and Mainz-Kastel, Germany. This new battery lab will be located in Michigan, subject to final negotiations with state and local authorities

• Continuing to ramp-up “in-house” battery-development capability by increasing the staff of GM’s global hybrid, electric vehicle and advanced battery organization to several hundred engineers in 2009, including more than 200 currently dedicated to advanced battery technologies

• Joining with the University of Michigan to create a new automotive advanced battery lab in Ann Arbor, Mich., and a specialized curriculum within U of M’s College of Engineering to develop automotive battery engineers

• Continuing to grow and establish a robust lineup of battery suppliers for cell development and manufacturing and battery integration expertise, with companies such as LG Chem, A123Systems, Hitachi Ltd., Compact Power and Cobasys

• Collaborating with government organizations and industry consortia, such as the U.S. Department of Energy; United States Council for Automotive Research; the United States Advanced Battery Consortium LLC; and Electric Power Research Institute to advance the development of hybrids, plug-ins and electric vehicles, and related electric infrastructure to support those vehicles

Energy alternatives and advanced technologies that reduce dependency on petroleum, improve fuel economy and reduce emissions are the keys to developing sustainable transportation. GM is pursuing several options to best meet the varied needs of customers around the world – from advanced gasoline, diesel and biofuel technology to electrically assisted vehicles such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids and – ultimately –electrically driven extended-range electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. GM believes that electrically driven vehicles, based on battery and hydrogen fuel cell technology, offer the best long-term solution for providing sustainable personal transportation.

In June 2008, the GM Board of Directors approved the Chevrolet Volt program and Voltec™ propulsion system for production starting in late 2010. For trips of up to 40 miles, the Volt is powered by electricity from the grid and stored in its lithium-ion battery pack. Beyond 40 miles, a small engine-generator creates additional electricity to extend the range of the Volt several hundred additional miles. The development of the Volt’s 16 kWh T-shaped lithium-ion battery, which is roughly 6 feet long (1.8 meters) and weighs nearly 400 pounds (181 kg), is key to the Volt’s success. The production-intent design was revealed in September 2008.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 77 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 252,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 34 countries. In 2007, nearly 9.37 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands:  Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at http://www.gm.com/.

Contacts:

Brian Corbett
GM Hybrid and Battery Technology
Phone: 248-857-0323 (office)
Phone: 586-612-6569 (mobile)
E-mail: brian.corbett@gm.com

Rob Peterson
GM Electric Vehicle Communications
Phone: 248-857-4214 (office)
Phone: 313-402-6326 (mobile)
E-mail: robert.d.peterson@gm.com

Dave Darovitz
Chevrolet Volt and Voltec Communications
Phone: 586-596-0871 (mobile)
E-mail: david.darovitz@gm.com

Madrid.  General Motors Europe and Iberdrola have signed an agreement to jointly perform a feasibility study which, ultimately, will analyze the technical requirements of a recharging infrastructure for the integrated marketing and viability of plug-in electric cars. The agreement was signed by Javier Villalba, Director of Spain Network Business, and Jamal El-Hout, Vice President, Product Planning General Motors Europe.

This cooperation reflects the interest of both companies, worldwide leaders in their respective business areas, to encourage the development of electric vehicles, in particular extended-range electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Volt, which will significantly contribute energy efficiency and environmental protection.

Both companies already work together in an important international project related to plug-in electric vehicles, coordinated by the prestigious Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) from the United States and with the participation of another 41 electric companies from all over the world.

The main areas of the study, which will be carried out in Spain and the United Kingdom, are convenient and safe charging for consumers. GM and Iberdrola will analyze the requirements for the location of plug sockets in private homes and offices; public or private parking and for the installation of electricity meters.

In the framework of this study, both companies expect to develop specific actions to assess the optimum viability of electric cars. General Motors Europe and Iberdrola will analyze E-REV technology and the electrical network capacity and will specify the conditions for the electrical charge of vehicles.

In case the outcome of the viability research is positive, both companies foresee further cooperation with the different European, national, regional and local governments, to support the implementation of this initiative.

About IBERDROLA

IBERDROLA has consolidated in the last years as a worldwide energy leader, present in more than 40 countries, with a capacity over 42,000 MW and around 27 million customers. At present, it is the main Spanish energy company, the second eolic company in the United States and the third in gas storage and the third distributor in United Kingdom, country where it is also one of the five reference marketing companies and holds the eolic leadership.

The Company considers that innovation is a strategic issue for its activity development. In this line, Iberdrola has been enhanced by the R&D Scoreboard as the first Spanish utility for its initiative in R&D and the fourth in Europe.

The Group develops a business model that confirms its firm commitment with sustainable development, that has situated them at the head of renewable energies, with almost 8,000 megawatts (MW) of implemented power, and that has been granted with different recognitions during the last years, among which can be highlighted its designation as best company of the utility sector from the prestigious 2008 Sustainability Dow Jones Index (DJSI) or having been considered in 2007 as one of the 100 most sustainable companies in the world, according to Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World.


Contacts:

GM Europe:

Andrew Marshall
Tel.: +49 6142 773815
andrew.marshall@de.gm.com

GM España:

Pilar Guridi
Tel.:+34 914 569272
pilar.guridi@es.gm.com

GM UK & Ireland:

Denis Chick
Tel.: +44 1582 427081
denis.chick@gm.com

Paris. General Motors demonstrates the diversity of its brands, mobility concepts, alternative propulsions and design expertise at the 2008 Paris Motor Show (October 4 – 19, 2008) with eight world and European premieres and a display of current and future pro-environmental technologies.

The star of the GM Forum stand is the production version of the Chevrolet Volt, simultaneously revealed September 16 in Detroit and Rüsselsheim during General Motors’ 100th anniversary celebrations. The Chevrolet Volt has the potential to redefine GM’s next 100 years and drive dramatic changes in automotive transportation.

The Volt ushers in a new era of electrification for the automobile and creates a distinct class of cars known as the Extended-Range Electric Vehicle, or E-REV. An E-REV like the Chevrolet Volt is unique from a hybrid or plug-in hybrid in that the vehicle’s wheels are always driven electrically by an electric drive unit. For the first 60 km (MVEG combined), the vehicle is powered only by electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the battery’s charge has been depleted, a range-extending gas/E85-powered engine creates additional electricity on-board to power the car for several hundred additional miles. The result is a functional vehicle without range anxiety.

World Premieres with an eye on the environment

Opel/Vauxhall offers the public its first view of the Insignia Sports Tourer, a mid-sized station wagon with powerful and athletic elegance along with a wide range of nine Euro 5-certified engines at launch. The Sports Tourer offers ample space for five occupants and a competitive luggage compartment for families searching for alternatives to large SUVs. The Sports Tourer, with its smart, sporty looks, is designed as a stand-alone model and not simply a wagon version of a sedan. In addition to the seven engines offered on the Insignia, Opel/Vauxhall add a 2.0 Liter CDTI BiTurbo with 190 hp and a 1.6 Liter gasoline Turbo with 180 hp to the Insignia engine line up.

Opel/Vauxhall also debuts its purpose-engineered ecoFLEX model with its flagship Insignia. The new Insignia ecoFLEX with the 160 hp 2.0 CDTI single turbo engine will emit CO2 gases well below 140 g/km. Its CD value of 0.26 makes the Insignia ecoFLEX one of the most aerodynamic sedans in the world.

The all-new Chevrolet Cruze raises the bar for exciting design and manufactured quality among value products in Europe's compact car segment. Its dynamic, four-door coupé-like looks bring a new dimension to traditional, three-box sedan design. With its signature grille, concave shoulder line and 'twin cockpit' interior design theme, the Cruze also heralds the arrival of a new design look for upcoming products carrying Chevy's gold bowtie in European markets. 

The Chevrolet Orlando show car previews the looks of Chevrolet's potential entry into the multi-purpose vehicle segment. In evolving the brand's new design look, Orlando combines a strong, SUV-like stance with adaptable seating and impressive interior space. The exterior lines cut a distinctive silhouette, replacing conventional “monocab” proportions with a more defined contrast between the hood and windshield lines. Instead of a flat side-body, Orlando features flared fenders emphasized by a two-tone paint finish.

The innovative Saab 9-X Air concept is a design vision exploring what a future convertible from Saab could look like. The 9-X Air breaks the mould of four-seater convertible design by introducing a folding roof – the Canopy Top (patent pending) – mounted on curved rear pillars with a separate retracting rear screen.  The 9-X Air features the close-coupled proportions of a sports car, while also providing open-top accommodation for four in “surround glass” comfort.  It shares the bold frontal styling and efficient 1.4-liter BioPower hybrid powertrain of its 9-X BioHybrid sibling.

European debut for Chevrolet Camaro and Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

Making its European debut at Paris, the iconic Chevrolet Camaro is a high performance sports coupé that spices its revered appeal with advanced, contemporary technology. With a strong, low-slung stance and front to rear body proportions that remain faithful to the original concept, the design of the new Camaro acknowledges its rich past without being trapped in a 'retro' focus.  A mighty, 400 hp/294 kW 6.2-liter V8 engine, with Active Fuel Management, gives it the muscle to match its looks.

The Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon has an unmistakable and dynamic presence. Dramatic styling, ample interior space and a range of fuel and emissions-efficient six-cylinder engines are expected to make the CTS Sport Wagon a compelling alternative to larger luxury sport utility vehicles and luxury wagons.  At start, the CTS Sport Wagon offers a 3,6L V6, direct injection engine developing 229 KW/311 hp, matched with 6-speed transmissions, manual or automatic. In addition, an efficient 2,9L turbo-diesel engine is being developed for CTS models. The engine is rated at 184 kW/250 hp.

GM Forum: Current and future pro-environmental technologies

In addition to the Volt, GM Forum also highlights possible future alternative propulsion with the GM HydroGen4 -- the fourth generation of fuel cell technology. The HydroGen4 has evolved significantly compared to its predecessors, boasting additional dynamics, system durability and everyday suitability.

The HydroGen4’s fuel cell stack consists of 440 series-connected cells. The entire system produces an electrical output of up to 93 kW. With help from a 73 kW/100 hp synchronous electric motor, acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes around 12 seconds. The HydroGen4 has a tank system with three 700-bar high-pressure tanks made from carbon-fiber composite material, which can hold a total of 4.2 kg of hydrogen. This provides an operating range of up to 320 kilometers.

Bioethanol or E85, a mixture consisting of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, has been a GM highlight for years. Bioethanol is a renewable alternative to fossil fuels and offers a CO2 advantage over gasoline of up to 70% on a well to wheels basis, depending on how the fuel is produced. GM displays two models which can be operated either by E85, with straight gasoline or with any available combination: the Saab 9-3 BioPower Convertible and the Cadillac BLS 2.0 Turbo Flexpower.

GM also has been offering natural gas vehicles based on the monovalentplus concept since 2002. The Opel Zafira 1.6-liter CNG is designed for operation with natural gas, biomethane or any mixture of the two and produces up to 80% less pollutants and 20% less CO2 than a conventional gasoline engine. Next to natural gas, GM is also focusing on LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas). The Chevrolet Aveo LPG is thus able to reduce exhaust emissions such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide and decreases CO2 by 10%.

Contact:

Joe Jacuzzi
General Director Product and Brand Communications GME
Phone:  + 49 6142 7 53600
E-mail: joe.jacuzzi@de.gm.com

"The Volt is symbolic of GM's strong commitment to the future," says Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO. "It features just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today's and tomorrow's energy and environmental challenges."

Form follows function

The design of the Volt production car has evolved from the original concept that was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Because aerodynamics plays a key role in maximizing driving range, GM designers have created an aerodynamically efficient design for the production vehicle. Many of the design cues from the concept vehicle endure in the production Volt, including the closed front grille, athletic stance, rear design graphics, outside rearview mirrors and more. The Volt's rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille are functional, enabling air to move easily around the car. At the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler allow the air to flow off and away quickly. An aggressive rake on the windshield and rear screen help reduce turbulence and drag.

Working closely with GM aerodynamicists to shape the Volt, design and engineering teams have developed one of the most aerodynamic vehicles in GM's history. They spent hundreds of hours with the Volt in GM's wind tunnel, testing and re-testing parts such as the front and rear quarter panels, rear spoiler, side sills and side mirrors. Aerodynamic improvements enabled GM to reach the Volt's target of driving up to 60 km (MVEG cycle) without using gasoline or producing emissions.

Inside, the Volt offers the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a four-passenger sedan, and it delivers them in a variety of interior color, lighting and trim options unlike any offered before on a Chevrolet sedan. Modern controls and attractive materials, two informational displays, and a touch-sensitive infotainment center with integrated shifter distinguish the Volt's interior from other vehicles on the market.

Some of Volt's interior technological features include:

• Driver-configurable, liquid crystal instrument display
• Standard seven-inch touch screen vehicle information display
• Touch screen-style climate and infotainment controls
• Optional navigation system with onboard hard drive for maps and music storage
• Standard Bluetooth for cellular phone and USB/Bluetooth for music streaming

New era in automotive transportation

The Volt heralds a new era in the electrification of the automobile by creating a new class of vehicle known as the Extended-Range Electric Vehicle, or E-REV.

The Volt uses electricity to move the wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to 60 km, the Volt is powered only by electricity stored in its 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. When the battery's energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-powered engine generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the Volt's electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range of the Volt for several hundred additional kilometers, until the vehicle's battery can be charged. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Volt eliminates "range anxiety," giving the confidence and peace of mind that the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery.

The Volt can be plugged into a standard household 230v outlet for charging. The vehicle's intelligent charging technology enables the Volt's battery to be charged in less than three hours. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted.  GM estimates that it will cost less than one euro at night for a full charge that will deliver up to 60 km of electric driving.

Charged up for performance

On the road, the Volt offers spirited driving performance in a remarkably quiet interior. More than 220 lithium-ion cells contained within the Volt's battery pack provide ample power. The Volt's electric drive unit delivers the equivalent of 150 hp/110 kW, 370 Nm of instant torque, and a top speed of 161 km/h. The lack of engine noise, combined with special sound-deadening materials, makes the Volt an extremely quiet vehicle to drive.

GM estimates that the Volt will cost about two euro cents per km to drive while under battery power, compared to 12 euro cents per km using gasoline priced at €1.50 per liter. For an average driver who drives 60 km per day (or 22,000 km per year), this amounts to cost savings of €2,200 annually. Using night-time electricity rates, GM estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in a Volt will be about one-sixth of the cost of a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle.

The Volt is expected to be built at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck manufacturing facility, subject to GM successfully negotiating satisfactory government incentives. Production is scheduled to begin late 2010 for models in the United States. Pricing has not been announced. Visit media.gm.com/volt for more information.

Chevrolet Volt

What is an E-REV?

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is a front-wheel-drive, four-passenger Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV) that uses electricity as its primary power source and gasoline as its secondary power source to propel the vehicle.

An E-REV like the Chevrolet Volt represents a significant departure from conventional hybrids. In a E-REV, the wheels are turned by an electric drive unit, whereas in conventional hybrids the wheels are turned by an electric motor, a gasoline engine, or both. For short trips, E-REVs will run on battery power alone.

For longer trips, additional electricity can be supplied by an internal combustion engine or a fuel cell. The battery and propulsion systems are sized so that when sufficient energy is available from the battery, the engine (or fuel cell) is not required for operation. During this electric only phase of driving, the battery, motor, and power electronics are designed to deliver full performance, acceleration, top speed, hill climbing on electric power alone.

How Volt works:

Energy is stored on board in a 16-kWh, “T”-shaped lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack powers the electric drive unit, which is capable of meeting full vehicle speed and acceleration performance while driving the car electrically for up to 60 kilometers (based on MVEG city cycle) without using a drop of gas. For longer trips, the Volt's on-board range-extending engine is used to drive an electric generator when the battery's energy has been depleted. The range extender, which can be powered by gas/E85 Ethanol, is able to generate additional electricity to power the car for hundreds of miles.

Chevrolet Volt

Fast Facts

• The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is a front-wheel-drive, four-passenger Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV) that uses electricity as its primary energy source and gasoline as its secondary energy source to propel the vehicle. Energy is stored on board in a 16-kWh, “T”-shaped lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack powers the electric drive unit, which is capable of meeting full vehicle speed and acceleration performance while driving the car electrically for up to 60 kilometers (based on MVEG city cycle) without a drop of gas.  For longer trips, the Volt's on-board range-extending engine is used to drive an electric generator when the battery's energy has been depleted. The range extender, which can be powered by gas/E85 Ethanol, is able to generate additional electricity to power the car for hundreds of miles.

• The Chevy Volt will use no gasoline and produce no emissions for up to 60 kilometers of daily driving, helping to save approximately 1,900 liters of gasoline a year (compared to a similar sized vehicle that averages 7.8 l/100 km).

• GM estimates that drivers who travel 100 kilometers a day (more than 33,500 kilometers miles per year) could save about 2,100 liters of gasoline annually (compared to a similar size vehicle that averages 7.8 l/100 km).

• The Chevy Volt operates differently from all other propulsion systems. An electric drive unit (electric motor) drives the wheels at all times and at all speeds. The Volt's range-extending engine serves only to create electricity to power the vehicle beyond 60 kilometers.

• Depending on the drive cycle, an E-REV like the Chevy Volt will eliminate most initial engine starts and substantially reduce associated vehicle emissions.

• Thanks to instantaneous torque, the Chevy Volt will be a fun-to-drive car with quick acceleration.

• At current prices per kilowatt hour, GM estimates that an electrically driven kilometer in a Chevy Volt will cost about one-sixth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle. It is estimated that it will cost about 0.02 euro per kilometer to drive electrically vs. 0.12 euro using gasoline at current prices.

• Most Chevy Volts are likely to be charged off-peak in the evening or overnight when consumption is lower, potentially further reducing the cost of recharging.

• Charging the Volt about once daily will consume less electric energy annually than the average home's refrigerator and freezer units.

• At a cost of about 1 euro a day for a full charge that will deliver up to 60 kilometers of electric driving, for most owners the Volt will be less expensive to recharge than purchasing a daily cup of your favorite branded coffee.

• The beautiful aerodynamic design of the Chevrolet Volt production car helps to improve both fuel economy and driving performance.

• GM's Board of Directors approved the production of the Chevrolet Volt. The targeted launch date is late 2010 as a 2011 model.

Contacts:

Hanspeter Ryser 
Chevrolet Europe 
+41 44 828 2980 
mob. + 41 79 404 9173 
hanspeter.ryser@ch.gm.com  

Florence Camenzind
Chevrolet Europe
+41 44 828 2982
mob. +41 79 236 9664
florence.camenzind@ch.gm.com

FLINT, Mich. – General Motors Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Rick Wagoner today announced that the company will invest $370 million in the U.S. to build a new manufacturing plant for its global 4-cylinder engines in Flint, Mich.  The plant will begin production in the U.S. in 2010, and will be the exclusive manufacturing facility in North America to produce the Chevrolet Volt’s range extending engine.

The investment in Flint is one of several that have been announced at U.S. plants in the past 10 years, adding up to over a $9 billion total investment in Michigan and more than $42 billion in the United States.  “GM, the UAW and the City of Flint have had a long- standing relationship,” Wagoner said.  “Based on the capability and the commitment of the men and women who will work here, the tradition and leadership from UAW Local 599, the tremendous automotive heritage that underlies this region, and the strong partnerships we enjoy with local, state, and federal governments… we are confident that Flint is exactly the right place to build our all-new powertrain plant.”

“We are proud that General Motors has chosen Michigan as the best place to develop and produce the revolutionary Chevy Volt and other next-generation vehicles and components,” Governor Jennifer M. Granholm said. “Our competitive business climate, outstanding workforce and aggressive strategy to diversify our economy put us in a strong position to win this project and be the state that helps GM produce the cars and trucks that will help end our nation’s dependence on foreign oil.”

The investment includes construction of the new 552,000 square foot plant, machinery, equipment and special tooling to support production of the new 4-cylinder engines.  In addition to the $349 million facility investment, GM will invest an additional $21 million for vendor tooling to support the new Flint operations.  Construction on the new facility is slated to begin immediately, with completion in 2010.  The project will retain about 300 hourly jobs.

Two engines will be built at the new facility.  A 1.4-liter turbo for the Chevrolet Cruze and 1.4-liter naturally aspirated engine for the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV), will be new members of an engine family already deployed successfully around the world, primarily in Europe.  The engines will play a key role in GM’s plan to double global production of small four-cylinder engines by 2011, with more than half of that increase coming from North America.

Tom Stephens, GM Executive Vice President of Global Powertrain and Global Quality spoke to the role the 1.4-liter turbo will play in the company’s line-up. “The new 1.4L turbo for the Chevrolet Cruze highlights GM’s global commitment to offering engines that provide outstanding fuel efficiency without compromising vehicle performance.  The new 1.4L turbocharged engine has the power of a larger engine, but retains the efficiency of a small-displacement four-cylinder.  And with this engine, we expect the Cruze to be a fuel economy leader in its segment when it’s introduced in early 2010.” 

Within the new engine plant will be GM Powertrain’s most flexible and competitive engine assembly lines in the world, with approximately 300 highly flexible stations that will allow assembly of multiple 4-cylinder engine families without retooling.  The plant will be a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified facility, the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.  And the plant will be landfill free, meaning no waste from manufacturing operations will go to landfills, but will be recycled, reused or converted to energy, proving the plant will be as environmentally sound as the products it manufactures. 

Contacts:

Sharon Basel
GM Manufacturing and Labor Relations Communications
313-378-6647 (cell)
sharon.basel@gm.com

Sherrie Childers Arb
GM Manufacturing and Labor Relations Communications
248-318-8029 (cell)
sherrie.childersarb@gm.com

FLINT, Mich. – GM will double its global production of small four-cylinder engines (1.0L to 1.4L) by 2011, with more than half of the increase coming in North America. The strategy is highlighted by an all-new, 1.4L Turbo engine that will power the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.

The 1.4L Turbo enables great vehicle performance and fuel economy. In fact, the Cruze is expected to be a fuel economy leader in its segment when it launches in mid-2010, and its new engine reinforces GM’s commitment to replacing larger-displacement engines with more compact, advanced four-cylinder engines that optimize performance and fuel savings.

One-third of GM’s North American engine volume will be four-cylinders by 2011, and 21 percent of the four-cylinder volume will be turbocharged – a seven-fold increase over today’s volume of turbo engines.

“Power-dense four-cylinders such as the 1.4L Turbo are an integral part of  GM’s portfolio of advanced propulsion technologies, including cam phasing, direct injection, Active Fuel Management, clean diesels, hybrids, flex-fuel vehicles, six-speed transmissions and electric propulsion,” said Tom Stephens, executive vice president, GM Global Powertrain and Global Quality. “GM is focused on delivering vehicles that look great, are fuel efficient and fun to drive.”      

The Chevy Cruze is such a vehicle. It is an all-new, global compact car that will be built for worldwide distribution at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio facility. It will be offered with the 1.4L Turbo in North America, along with additional small-displacement engines for models sold outside of North America.

A non-turbocharged 1.4L variant will serve as a secondary energy source for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle. For trips up to 40 miles, the Volt’s primary source of power comes from its lithium-ion battery. When the battery’s energy is depleted, the 1.4L engine activates, generating electricity to power the Volt for several hundred additional miles until its battery is recharged. 

1.4L Turbo details

At 100 horsepower per liter, the new turbocharged 1.4L has the power of a larger engine but retains the efficiency of a small-displacement four-cylinder in most driving conditions.

“Because of the turbocharger’s on-demand power and responsiveness, it’s like having two engines in the same vehicle – one for power and one for fuel economy,” said Stephens. “It’s truly the best of both worlds.”

The 1.4L’s turbocharger is integrated within the exhaust manifold, for reduced weight and greater packaging flexibility in smaller vehicles. A reinforced crankshaft and stronger connecting rods are unique, delivering additional strength to support the engine’s pressurized, high-rpm performance.

Estimated power ratings for the 1.4L Turbo will be 140 horsepower (104 kW) with a torque rating of 148 lb.-ft. (200 Nm).

In addition to the Chevrolet Cruze, GM will introduce the 1.4L turbo in the U.S. in two additional GM models in 2011. 

Global engine family

GM’s small four-cylinder gasoline engines include displacements of 1.0L, 1.2L and 1.4L. The engines were designed with fuel efficiency in mind, including technology such as full variable valve timing that optimizes power and fuel efficiency across the rpm band.

More importantly, torque for these engines – the pulling power that is felt when accelerating from a stop – is generated at lower rpm, for strong, off-the-line launches and confident acceleration at all speeds. Supporting powertrain features, such as torque converter design and transmission gearing, accentuate engine power and contribute further to the feeling of performance.

All engines in the family have premium design elements that contribute to world-class smoothness and durability, including:

• Dual overhead camshafts
• Roller-finger follower valvetrain
• Chain-driven camshafts
• Flow-controlled oil pump
• Piston-cooling oil jets
• Thermal management

The engines also incorporate numerous mass-reducing features, including a cast iron block with a hollow frame structure, hollow-cast camshafts, and on non-turbo engines, crankshafts with hollow-core main bearing journals and connecting rod journals.

Contacts:

Susan Garavaglia
GM Powertrain Communications
Phone: 248-857-4368
Mobile: 313-378-9335
E-mail: susan.garavaglia@gm.com

Tom Read
GM Powertrain Communications
Phone: 248-857-4006
E-mail: tom.read@gm.com

“Revealing the production version of the Chevy Volt is a great way to open our second century,” said Rick Wagoner, GM Chairman and CEO. “The Volt is symbolic of GM’s strong commitment to the future … just the kind of technology innovation that our industry needs to respond to today’s and tomorrow’s energy and environmental challenges.”

Form follows function

The design of the Chevrolet Volt production car has evolved from the original concept that was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Because aerodynamics plays a key role in maximizing driving range, GM designers created an aerodynamically efficient design for the production vehicle. Many of the design cues from the concept vehicle endure in the production Volt, including the closed front grille, athletic stance, rear design graphics, outside rearview mirrors and more. The Volt’s rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille are functional, enabling air to move easily around the car. In the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler allow the air to flow off and away quickly. An aggressive rake on the windshield and back glass help reduce turbulence and drag.

Working closely with GM aerodynamicists to shape the Volt, design and engineering teams developed one of the most aerodynamic vehicles in GM’s history. They spent hundreds of hours with the Volt in GM’s wind tunnel, testing and re-testing parts such as the front and rear quarter panels, rear spoiler, rockers and side mirrors. Aerodynamic improvements enabled GM to reach the Volt’s target of driving up to 40 miles (based on EPA city cycle) without using gasoline or producing emissions.

Inside, the Volt offers the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a four-passenger sedan, and it delivers them in a variety of interior color, lighting and trim options unlike any offered before on a Chevrolet sedan. Modern controls and attractive materials, two informational displays, and a touch-sensitive infotainment center with integrated shifter distinguish the Volt’s interior from other vehicles in the market.

Some of Volt’s interior technological features include:

• Driver-configurable, liquid crystal instrument display
• Standard seven-inch touch screen vehicle information display
• Touch screen-style climate and infotainment controls
• Optional navigation system with onboard hard drive for maps and music storage
• Standard Bluetooth for cellular phone and USB/Bluetooth for music streaming

New era in automotive transportation

The Chevrolet Volt is leading a new era of electrification of the automobile by creating a new class of vehicle known as the Extended-Range Electric Vehicle, or E-REV. 

The Volt uses electricity to move the wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to 40 miles, the Volt is powered only by electricity stored in its 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. When the battery’s energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-powered engine generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the Volt’s electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range of the Volt for several hundred additional miles, until the vehicle’s battery can be charged. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Volt eliminates “range anxiety,” giving the confidence and peace of mind that the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery.

The Chevrolet Volt can be plugged either into a standard household 120v outlet or use 240v for charging. The vehicle’s intelligent charging technology enables the Volt’s battery to be charged in less than three hours on a 240v outlet or about eight hours on a 120v outlet. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted. At a cost of about 80 cents per day (10 cents per kWh) for a full charge that will deliver up to 40 miles of electric driving, GM estimates that the Volt will be less expensive to recharge than purchasing a cup of your favorite coffee. Charging the Volt about once daily will consume less electric energy annually than the average home’s refrigerator and freezer units.

Charge out of driving

The Chevrolet Volt offers spirited driving performance in a remarkably quiet interior. More than 220 lithium-ion cells contained within the Volt’s battery pack provide ample power. The Volt’s electric drive unit delivers the equivalent of 150 horsepower, 273 lb-ft. (370 Nm) of instant torque, and a top speed of 100 miles per hour. The lack of engine noise, combined with special sound-deadening materials, make the Chevrolet Volt an extremely quiet vehicle to drive.

GM estimates that the Volt will cost about two cents per mile to drive while under battery power compared to 12 cents per mile using gasoline priced at $3.60 per gallon. For an average driver who drives 40 miles per day (or 15,000 miles per year), this amounts to a cost savings of $1,500 annually. Using peak electric rates, GM estimates that an electrically driven mile in a Chevy Volt will be about one-sixth of the cost of a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle. The cost savings are even greater when charging during off-peak hours, when electric rates are cheaper.

The Chevrolet Volt is expected to be built at GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck manufacturing facility, subject to GM successfully negotiating satisfactory government incentives. Production is scheduled to begin late 2010 for models in the United States. Pricing has not been announced. Visit media.gm.com/volt for more information.

Contacts:

Dave Darovitz
Manager, Chevrolet Volt and E-REV Communications
Phone: 586-596-0871
E-mail: david.darovitz@gm.com

Rob Peterson
Manager, Electric Vehicle Communications
Phone: 313-402-6326
E-mail: robert.d.peterson@gm.com

Terry Rhadigan
Director, Chevrolet Communications
Phone: 313-667-9181
E-mail: terry.rhadigan@gm.com

Carolyn Normandin
Manager, Chevrolet Communications
Phone: 313-378-4539
E-mail: carolyn.normandin@gm.com

Karla Coleman
Manager, Design Communications
Phone: 313-618-1897
E-mail: karla.1.coleman@gm.com