Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2013 Chevy Volt getting battery-conservation mode, lane-departure warning]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/2013-chevy-volt-battery-conservation-mode-lane-departure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/2013-chevy-volt-battery-conservation-mode-lane-departure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/2013-chevy-volt-battery-conservation-mode-lane-departure/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

chevy volt

One more driving mode, one less color.

That's the crux of the changes in store for the 2013 Chevrolet Volt extended-range plug-in electric vehicle. Changes for the 2013 model year will include a driving mode that lets drivers force the car into gas-powered, extended-range mode in situations where it's most advantageous to switch out of EV-only mode, GM Inside News reports.

Drivers can choose the Volt's "EV Hold Mode" in certain cases, such as when the route consists of a bunch of highway driving prior to city driving, according to the publication. Switching over to extended-range mode, in which the gas-powered on-board generator is used, would be better in that situation because high speeds drain a plug-in's battery charge a lot more rapidly than city driving. "EV Hold Mode" is standard on the Volt's European sister vehicle, the Opel Ampera. The closest that U.S. drivers can do with today's Volt is engage "Mountain Mode."

Additionally, the Volt will eschew its black roof and trunk backing and will go to body colors for those parts of the car for 2013. Other improvements include a lane-departure warning system that's becoming commonplace on many U.S. vehicles.

GM released details of the 2013 Volt following the model's most successful sales month since its late-2010 debut. The automaker sold 2,289 Volts in March, a monthly record that is more than three times higher than figures from a year earlier. The Volt missed the 10,000-unit target set by GM for 2011, moving just 7,671 units last year.

2013 Chevy Volt getting battery-conservation mode, lane-departure warning originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 chevrolet voltamperachevroletEV holdev hold modegeneral motorsmodeopelplug-in hybridvoltWed, 18 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20217615/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/18/2013-chevy-volt-battery-conservation-mode-lane-departure/20217615/article-detail.xml 20217615 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2011-chevrolet-volt-628j_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2011-chevrolet-volt-628j.jpg <![CDATA[Bob Lutz wins push-up contest on <em>The Colbert Report</em>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/bob-lutz-wins-push-up-contest-on-the-colbert-report/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/bob-lutz-wins-push-up-contest-on-the-colbert-report/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/bob-lutz-wins-push-up-contest-on-the-colbert-report/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bob Lutz takes on Stephen Colbert in a push-up contest

Former General Motors Vice Chairman Bob Lutz went bicep-to-bicep with "America's ballsiest pundit," Stephen Colbert, last night - and came out ahead. Ostensibly, Lutz was on Colbert to talk about his new book, Car Guys Vs. Bean Counters, but as one might expect, the discussion veered into Mitt Romney vs. President Obama territory pretty quickly.

The actual car industry part of the discussion, though, revealed more potential good news for the Chevrolet Volt, the car that Lutz is obviously trying to make his legacy and called "a huge success." Sure, Colbert talked about what his friends over at Fox News have been saying, but Lutz responded by predicting that sales would be "about 3,000 a month from here on out." This would not only set a new record (Volt sales for March 2012 were 2,289, the highest so far) but would also put GM's plug-in car into the 36,000-a-year range. That's commendable, but still not where GM CEO Dan Akerson said last December things would be this year. Of course, Akerson's 60,000 number could have included the Opel Ampera and its Vauxhall twin. In any case, things are looking up for the Volt, and that's something Lutz is more than happy to tell Colbert or anyone else. Watch the video - including an impromptu push-up contest between the two - right now by scrolling below.

Continue reading Bob Lutz wins push-up contest on The Colbert Report

Bob Lutz wins push-up contest on The Colbert Report originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet voltamperabob lutzchevroletchevy voltcolbertcolbert reportlutzstephen colbertvideovoltTue, 10 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20212216/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/bob-lutz-wins-push-up-contest-on-the-colbert-report/20212216/article-detail.xml 20212216 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/lutz-vs-colbert-push-ups_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/lutz-vs-colbert-push-ups.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

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

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

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

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

Watch the video after the jump.

Continue reading Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera

Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 opel ampera2012 opel amperaamperaopeltranslogicTue, 27 Mar 2012 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202021/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/20202021/article-detail.xml 20202021 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-opel-ampera-video-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-opel-ampera-video-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt sister car Opel Ampera gets 7,000 pre-orders, may hit 2012 sales target]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Opel Ampera - Maroon

Found in translation?

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

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

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

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

Chevy Volt sister car Opel Ampera gets 7,000 pre-orders, may hit 2012 sales target originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet volt2012 opel amperaamperachevroletchevy voltelectric vehicleeuropeopelopel amperaplug-in hybridvoltThu, 22 Mar 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20199215/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/22/volt-sister-car-opel-ampera-gets-7-000-pre-orders-may-hit-2012/20199215/article-detail.xml 20199215 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperacar of the yearchevroleteuropean car of the yeareuropean car of the year 2012general motorsgenevageneva 2012gmopelvauxhallvoltMon, 05 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/20186013/article-detail.xml 20186013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Ampera delayed over Chevy Volt battery fears]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



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

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

Opel Ampera delayed over Chevy Volt battery fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet volt2012 opel amperaamperachevroletchevrolet voltdelayNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsaopelopel amperaopel ampera delayvoltvolt batteryMon, 12 Dec 2011 16:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20126314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/opel-ampera-delayed-over-chevy-volt-battery-fears/20126314/article-detail.xml 20126314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/opel-ampera-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/opel-ampera-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lured in by Opel Ampera tech, BMW seeks deal with GM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Frank Weber with the Chevrolet Volt

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

Beyond that, Spiegel reports that Stephen Girsky, GM's board member in charge of strategy, has started discussions with BMW on "far-reaching joint projects." For his part, BMW chairman Dr. Norbert Reithofer previously went on record saying the German automaker was open to the idea of selling engines to other companies so long as such a move - like the recent agreement BMW made with Fisker Automotive - wouldn't strengthen a direct competitor's position or damage BMW's reputation.

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

Dow Jones says neither General Motors nor BMW were immediately available for comment on this alleged deal.

Lured in by Opel Ampera tech, BMW seeks deal with GM originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperabmwbmw gmdiesel enginegeneral motorsgmopel amperavoltMon, 12 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20039995/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/12/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/20039995/article-detail.xml 20039995 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/zz618f17c2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/zz618f17c2.jpg <![CDATA[GM takes issue with VW chairman Winterkorn's statements about Opel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/gm-takes-issue-with-vw-chairman-winterkorns-statements-about-op/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/gm-takes-issue-with-vw-chairman-winterkorns-statements-about-op/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/gm-takes-issue-with-vw-chairman-winterkorns-statements-about-op/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Opel Emblem

Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn has apparently ruffled some feathers at General Motors. The American automaker took the time to release a scornful statement about the VW executive's comments toward the beleaguered Eureopean brand, Opel. Apparently, Winterkorn took the time to comment on what he believes the brand faces in the near future while speaking with Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, fuelling speculation that Opel is in dire straits and that a sale may be on the horizon. GM shot back by saying that VW is simply nervous about the launch of the Ampera in Europe, and that the automaker is simply trying to sabotage the Opel recovery.

Them's fightin' words.

GM says that due to the strong positive response that the Ampera has garnered so far, the company is now planning to crank out an additional Ampera models to satiate demand. Additionally, the statement makes it clear that Opel is an important part of the GM flock and that the brand isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Hit the jump to check out the official statement for yourself.

Continue reading GM takes issue with VW chairman Winterkorn's statements about Opel

GM takes issue with VW chairman Winterkorn's statements about Opel originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperageneral motorsgmmartin winterkornopelopel amperawinterkornThu, 14 Jul 2011 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19991538/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/14/gm-takes-issue-with-vw-chairman-winterkorns-statements-about-op/19991538/article-detail.xml 19991538 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/opel-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/opel-630.jpg <![CDATA[GM adding 2,500 jobs at Detroit-Hamtramck plant for Malibu and Impala [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/gm-adding-2-500-jobs-at-detroit-hamtramck-plant-for-malibu-and-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/gm-adding-2-500-jobs-at-detroit-hamtramck-plant-for-malibu-and-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/gm-adding-2-500-jobs-at-detroit-hamtramck-plant-for-malibu-and-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GM Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly
GM Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors has announced that it will add two shifts and 2,500 jobs (both hourly and salaried) at its Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant. Currently, the facility builds the Chevrolet Volt and its European cousin, the Opel Ampera, but GM is expanding this plant's capability to handle the production of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, as well as the next-generation Impala sedan.

According to GM, most of the 2,500 new jobs will be filled by laid-off UAW members.

This latest move means that GM has invested $190 million in the Detroit-Hamtramck facility since April 2010. Last year, The General announced a $121M investment to support next-generation Malibu production, and now, an additional $69 million is being pumped into the plant for tooling and equipment that will be used on the future Impala.

GM's efforts at Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly follow the investments that the company has recently made in other states, including the Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky, as well as facilities in Toledo, Ohio; Flint and Bay City, Michigan. Follow the jump for GM's official press release, as well as a video of a Chevy Volt being produced at the Detroit-Hamtramck facility.

Continue reading GM adding 2,500 jobs at Detroit-Hamtramck plant for Malibu and Impala [w/video]

GM adding 2,500 jobs at Detroit-Hamtramck plant for Malibu and Impala [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 May 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperachevroletdetroit hamtramck assemblygeneral motorsgmhamtramckimpalamalibuvoltWed, 25 May 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19949712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/25/gm-adding-2-500-jobs-at-detroit-hamtramck-plant-for-malibu-and-i/19949712/article-detail.xml 19949712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/05-detroit-hamtramck-assembly630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/05-detroit-hamtramck-assembly630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: GM readying Buick Ampera]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/report-gm-readying-buick-ampera/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/report-gm-readying-buick-ampera/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/report-gm-readying-buick-ampera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera
2012 Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a new report from Bloomberg, General Motors is working on a Buick-badged version of its Opel Ampera plug-in hybrid, Europe's mechanical twin to the Chevrolet Volt. The car hasn't received final approval yet, as GM still isn't sure it can get buyers to justify in inevitable premium over the $41,000 pre-incentive Volt.

To make a Buick version more marketable, the General may attempt to take measures to extend the car's all-electric range, like using lighter materials, but that may be a higher level of investment than the program calls for. That said, any Ampera with a waterfall grille will probably require a few more creature comforts and better interior materials to command Buick's typically higher pricepoint.

If General Motors can figure out how to build and sell an Buick Volt/Ampera, the car will probably arrive in 2013 as a 2014 model. For now, range and performance will likely be pretty similar to the Volt.


Gallery: 2012 Opel Ampera: Geneva 2011


Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Bloomberg]

Report: GM readying Buick Ampera originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperabuickbuick amperabuick voltchevroletchevrolet voltgeneral motorsopelopel amperaphevvoltWed, 30 Mar 2011 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19897834/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/30/report-gm-readying-buick-ampera/19897834/article-detail.xml 19897834 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/opel-ampera-geneva-1301519477_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/opel-ampera-geneva-1301519477.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2011: 2012 Opel Ampera set to electrify Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/2012-opel-ampera-geneva-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/2012-opel-ampera-geneva-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/2012-opel-ampera-geneva-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera
2012 Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just as the first round of Chevrolet Volts are hitting the streets of the United States, Europe's own version of the electrified sedan makes its debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. General Motors took the wraps off the 2012 Opel Ampera, a sedan that wears more aggressively styled body panels than its Chevy cousin. It's pretty slick, and when you consider the technology that exists underneath that shapely sheetmetal, Europe should be pleasantly surprised.

Pricing, however, is a bit steep. GM has set the Ampera's base price at €42,900, which includes Europe's steep Value Added Tax, and that translates to roughly $60,000 based on current exchange rates. Still, Opel says that it already has about 1,000 orders placed for the sedan across the continent, and with Voltec engineering on tap, hopefully the Ampera will make as big of a splash in Europe as the Volt has here in America.


Gallery: 2012 Opel Ampera: Geneva 2011


Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Geneva 2011: 2012 Opel Ampera set to electrify Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 opel amperaamperagenevageneva 2011geneva motor showopelWed, 02 Mar 2011 05:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19863554/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/02/2012-opel-ampera-geneva-2011/19863554/article-detail.xml 19863554 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/opel-ampera-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/opel-ampera-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Production Opel Ampera revealed ahead of Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/production-opel-ampera-revealed-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/production-opel-ampera-revealed-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/production-opel-ampera-revealed-ahead-of-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Production-ready Opel Ampera - Click above to view high-res image

Opel is bringing the Ampera to Geneva, and the extended-range electric hybrid is finally arriving in production form. This ready-for-public-consumption Ampera stays remarkably true to the concept we've been eyeballing since 2009.

The Opel Ampera wears more aggressive body panels than its more conservative Chevrolet Volt cousin. The headlights flow down into the running lights, while the front and rear fascias appear downright sporty. Tucked into the rubber, the production-ready flower-pattern wheels mirror the design of the concept vehicle, yet they aren't quite as show car exotic.

Opel notes that it has taken in over 1,000 reservations for the Ampera across Europe. The automaker put out a call to the public and around 400 "ePioneers" raised their hands to test early versions of the Ampera. When it goes on sale later this year, it will be priced at €42,900 in most European markets (that's just shy of $60,000 USD, but it includes Europe's costly Value Added Tax, which adds about 20 percent to the purchase price).

The Opel Ampera will take the stage under the Geneva Motor Show lights and we'll be on hand to give you a deeper visual dive. For now, click on the above image to view a high-res version, and click past the jump to read the press release.

[Source: Opel]

Continue reading Production Opel Ampera revealed ahead of Geneva

Production Opel Ampera revealed ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show2012 opel amperaamperachevrolet voltgeneral motorsgeneva 2011geneva motor showgmopelopel amperaMon, 28 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19861435/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/28/production-opel-ampera-revealed-ahead-of-geneva/19861435/article-detail.xml 19861435 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/2012-opel-ampera-main_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/2012-opel-ampera-main.jpg <![CDATA[Report: GM may let Euro drivers switch Opel Ampera to gas power to save batteries]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/08/report-gm-may-let-euro-drivers-switch-opel-ampera-to-gas-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/08/report-gm-may-let-euro-drivers-switch-opel-ampera-to-gas-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/08/report-gm-may-let-euro-drivers-switch-opel-ampera-to-gas-power/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt made major media waves when it was first revealed that its engine could power the drive wheels independently under certain circumstances. According to a report from HeadlineAuto in the UK, though, General Motors' European division is actually considering adding a switch for the Opel Ampera (the Volt's more attractive European cousin) that would allow the driver to control how the drivetrain operates.

For instance, when driving longer distances, such as when traveling from city to city, the driver could potentially switch the car into its so-called charge sustaining mode so that the gasoline-powered engine would run constantly in order to maintain a full charge of the battery. Then, after the speeds slow back down and the driver re-enters an urban area, the car could be put back into its normal battery-first mode.

At this point, this report appears to be little more than speculation based on statements made by GM's Lars Peter Thiesen, who is overseeing the process of tuning the Opel Ampera for the European market. There's currently no reason to believe that GM would make such a modification to the U.S.-spec Volt.


Gallery: Opel Ampera


[HeadlineAuto UK - sub. req.]

Report: GM may let Euro drivers switch Opel Ampera to gas power to save batteries originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011 opel ampera2012 opel amperaamperachevroletchevyopelvoltWed, 08 Dec 2010 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19750570/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/08/report-gm-may-let-euro-drivers-switch-opel-ampera-to-gas-power/19750570/article-detail.xml 19750570 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Ampera priced from 42,900 euros ($58,718 USD!)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/11/opel-ampera-priced-from-42-900-euros-58-718-usd/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/11/opel-ampera-priced-from-42-900-euros-58-718-usd/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/11/opel-ampera-priced-from-42-900-euros-58-718-usd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

General Motors is ready to begin taking orders for the 2011 Opel Ampera, the European cousin of the Chevrolet Volt. The MSRP has been set at €42,900, which equals roughly $58,718 USD based on current exchange rates, or $18,438 more than a Volt here in the States. Sure, the front end is more aggressive and the wheels are better but is the Ampera nearly $20,000 better than the our all-American electric sedan?

The answer lies with Europe's Value Added Tax, otherwise known as VAT - add German's 19 percent VAT, and the final price becomes €42,900. Take away the VAT and the price is €36,050 or about $49,280, which is a bit closer to the cost of the Volt.

Those interested in purchasing an Opel Ampera can register at Opel-Ampera.com to become "ePioneers." Those brave, electric pioneers will have access to updates on the car, a chance to test drive one and the first opportunity to purchase the Ampera when it goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2011. More information can be found in the press release idling silently after the jump.


Gallery: Opel Ampera


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Opel Ampera priced from 42,900 euros ($58,718 USD!)

Opel Ampera priced from 42,900 euros ($58,718 USD!) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperachevroletChevrolet Voltelectric vehicleeuropegeneral motorshybridopelopel amperaValue Added TaxVATvoltThu, 11 Nov 2010 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19712750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/11/opel-ampera-priced-from-42-900-euros-58-718-usd/19712750/article-detail.xml 19712750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/265053.jpg <![CDATA[GM follows Chrysler into the lifetime warranty business... with Vauxhall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/gm-follows-chrysler-into-the-lifetime-warranty-business-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/gm-follows-chrysler-into-the-lifetime-warranty-business-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/05/gm-follows-chrysler-into-the-lifetime-warranty-business-with/#commentsFiled under: , ,

That's right. General Motors has taken the bold step of offering a lifetime warranty with all new Vauxhall vehicles it sells. Not surprisingly, the warranty is non-transferable and is only good for the first 100,000 miles on the odometer - apparently their definition of 'lifetime' is a bit different from that of Chrysler. Unlike their crosstown rivals, however, the guarantee covers most of the vehicle's major systems, including the engine, transmission, steering, brake and electrical components. Not too shabby. The company is even looking into a way to offer the remainder of the warranty to second owners, which shows a pretty sizable amount of confidence in the company's build quality as of late.

Interestingly enough, we haven't heard a peep about similar programs for Vauxhall's twin, Opel, or any of The General's other deserving children. Here's hoping that GM is using the Vauxhall warranty as a testbed for the rest of the family. Few things help move cars quicker than the peace of mind that comes along with the knowledge that the dealer will take care of any woe you have down the line. Similarly generous warranties have helped both Hyundai and Kia establish themselves here in the States, and they'd probably go a long way towards rebuilding consumer consideration. A bigger and perhaps more interesting question is, will this same guarantee apply to the forthcoming Vauxhall Ampera?

Hit the jump for a look at the official press release. Thanks for the tip, Lesbert!


Gallery: Vauxhall Ampera


[Source: Vauxhall]

Continue reading GM follows Chrysler into the lifetime warranty business... with Vauxhall

GM follows Chrysler into the lifetime warranty business... with Vauxhall originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperaGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMgm warrantyGmWarrantyLifetime WarrantyLifetimeWarrantyVauxhallVauxhall Lifetime Warrantyvauxhall warrantyVauxhallLifetimeWarrantyVauxhallWarrantyThu, 05 Aug 2010 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19582404/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/05/gm-follows-chrysler-into-the-lifetime-warranty-business-with/19582404/article-detail.xml 19582404 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/vauxhall-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/vauxhall-250.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet Volt to be powered by engine at high speeds? Seems unlikely.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/28/chevrolet-volt-to-be-powered-by-engine-at-high-speeds/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/28/chevrolet-volt-to-be-powered-by-engine-at-high-speeds/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/28/chevrolet-volt-to-be-powered-by-engine-at-high-speeds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Opel Ampera - Click above for high-res image gallery

Whoa. Color us shocked and awed if this rumor from The Telegraph is accurate. According to the UK paper, General Motors is set to make some drastic changes to the Chevrolet Volt's European Opel Ampera twin. Specifically, the report suggests that the extended-range-electric-vehicle's powertrain is being redesigned so that the gasoline-fueled engine can and will power the wheels under certain high-speed conditions.

If true - and we're filing this firmly in the rumormill folder for now - this change would completely alter the entire ethos of the Volt idea. GM has gone to great pains to ensure that its green halo vehicle can be called an electric vehicle with a range extender, not a hybrid.

Semantics perhaps, but the distinction has been made clear and driven home by The General. Further, we know that the machine is well into its final development phases, and any changes of this magnitude this late in the game would be darn near impossible to implement in time.

The reason cited by The Telegraph for the recalibration is that Europeans require more power during high speed use. We find that explanation highly suspect as well, unless GM of Europe actually believes the Ampera will spend more time than normal on Autobahns in the far-left lane... which we doubt. Consider too that Europeans are known to embrace vehicles with much smaller and less powerful engines than Americans and the report continues failing to add up.

In any case, the report cites Andreas Voight, an Opel project engineer, who is quoted as saying that we can expect an announcement on the matter this autumn. We'll see, and we'll be pestering GM for a comment in the meantime.


Gallery: Opel Ampera


[Source: The Telegraph]

Chevrolet Volt to be powered by engine at high speeds? Seems unlikely. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt2011 volt2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVolt2011Voltamperachevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevy voltChevyVoltgeneral motorsgeneral motors voltGeneralMotorsGeneralMotorsVoltgmgm voltGmVoltopelopel amperaOpelAmperavoltMon, 28 Jun 2010 15:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19534122/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/28/chevrolet-volt-to-be-powered-by-engine-at-high-speeds/19534122/article-detail.xml 19534122 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/opel-ampera_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/opel-ampera.jpg <![CDATA[Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/once-and-for-all-lutz-text-message-reportedly-confirms-cadillac/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/once-and-for-all-lutz-text-message-reportedly-confirms-cadillac/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/17/once-and-for-all-lutz-text-message-reportedly-confirms-cadillac/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2009 Cadillac Converj Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although previously the subject of some early obituaries, it appears that the future of the Cadillac Converj showcar is indeed at a dead-end. According to Automotive News, a production future for the rakish extended-range coupe has been scuttled due to "priorities and the conviction that the Volt and Ampera will use all available capacity for years to come" - that's according to a text message from General Motors vice chairman Bob Lutz.

Lutz, who is himself retiring on May 1, openly championed the Converj, including telling members of the Society of Automotive Analysts that the car would be built after 2012. Prevailing logic also had the well-received 2009 Detroit Auto Show concept getting the green light, if only because affixing a higher-margin Cadillac badge to its flanks would presumably help GM recover some of its massive investment in the E-Rev technology it shared with the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera. However, in a Bloomberg report from earlier this month, some company managers apparently successfully argued that the business case for the Converj could not be made.


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj


Photos by Drew Phillips / Frank Filliponio / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amperabob lutzBobLutzCadillacchevroletchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevy voltChevyVoltConverjConverj conceptConverjConceptE-revextended-rangegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmLutzopel amperaOpelAmperaWed, 17 Mar 2010 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19403282/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/17/once-and-for-all-lutz-text-message-reportedly-confirms-cadillac/19403282/article-detail.xml 19403282 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/cadillacconverjdd_09_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/cadillacconverjdd_09_opt.jpg -1 2