Opel adds stop/start technology to Corsa, Astra ecoFLEX models

2011 Opel Corsa

Press Release

* Ready to go: World premiere of Ampera production car
* Lounge On Wheels: Vision of next-generation Zafira
* More frugal than ever: Start/Stop further improves ecoFLEX range's efficiency
* Redesigned: New Antara and Corsa debut in 2011

Rüsselsheim. The series production model of Opel's revolutionary extended-range electric vehicle, the Ampera, will make its grand premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show (March 3-13). First deliveries will be made before the end of this year. With this, Opel makes good on its promise to be the first manufacturer to make this highly innovative technology available in Europe.

Fair visitors will also get a glimpse into the future of Opel's next-generation Zafira: The Zafira Tourer Concept brings on-board flexibility to a new level of sophistication and comfort, showcasing how an elegant Lounge On Wheels could look.

More of Opel's future as a leader in sustainable mobility will also be displayed with the latest low-emission ecoFLEX models. Entering the market in early 2011, the re-worked Corsa and Antara will also be featured at the Opel booth.

Opel Ampera production car – e-mobility within drivers' grasp

Keeping the promises it made in the last years, Opel will continue being a trendsetter with the market introduction of the Ampera by the end of this year. The production model of the Opel Ampera that will debut at the Geneva Motor Show does not deviate from the targets set during the development phase while its bold design remains very close to that of the early concept cars.

The Opel Ampera extended-range electric vehicle will be the first electric car in Europe suitable for everyday driving: it gives drivers the peace of mind that they won't be stranded due to a flat battery. With its unique electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration and high levels of refinement, the five-door Ampera seats four passengers and offers ample trunk space. It is powered by electricity at all times and speeds. For the first 40 - 80 kilometers, power is supplied by the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Ampera moves free of gas and tailpipe-emissions.

Independent research found that about 80 percent of Europeans drive less than 60 kilometers per day, so the Ampera would easily meet their requirements. When the Ampera's battery runs low, it can be recharged in about four hours at 230V by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard outlet. Because the battery can be recharged quickly, most Amperas are likely to be driven in battery mode all the time. If a longer trip is required, the gasoline-fueled engine/generator can seamlessly extend the total driving range to more than 500 kilometers on a full tank. This range-extending technology makes the Ampera the first practical car with worry-free electric driving. The extremely quiet 111 kW/150 hp electric motor delivers 370 meters torque from a standstill. It accelerates the Ampera from zero to 100 km/h in around nine seconds and enables a maximum speed of 161 km/h.

Zafira Tourer Concept: A Lounge On Wheels

In , Opel will also present the vision of what a new generation of its larger monocab, the segment-defining Zafira, could look like. Dubbed a "Lounge On Wheels", the Zafira Tourer Concept features an airy and bright interior executed in high quality. "We've applied the lounge concept to a motor vehicle," says Mark Adams, Vice President Opel/Vauxhall Design. "A lounge is a place you want to escape to and relax, a place where you really want to be. We wanted to offer the same feeling in a monocab and make it the lounge you want to spend time in."

All in true Zafira fashion, Opel's new concept car offers highest possible cabin flexibility to meet most needs for space, with a great emphasis on rear passenger seats. The cabin is also generously glazed to invite light, enhance the feeling of wellness and a peaceful openness to the outside world.

The spacious and sophisticated lounge-style interior is embraced by an elegant, sculptured and dynamic exterior, featuring a new, bold face that integrates a dramatic wing shaped headlamp that creates a very dynamic look.

The Zafira Tourer Concept brings Insignia ambition, quality and innovative technologies to the monocab segment. It is designed to ensure that every journey is pleasant, safe and relaxing for all aboard.

Opel ecoFLEX family: More efficiency thanks to Start/Stop technology deployment

Opel stands for sustainable and practical mobility without compromising on driving fun. Opel ecoFLEX models enable low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions without skimping on performance or dynamic driving – all at an affordable price.

The new ecoFLEX family displayed in features two major novelties:

* The Corsa 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX now combines its 70 kW/95 hp powertrain with Start/Stop technology, offering combined fuel consumption of 3.5 liters per 100 km and emitting just 94 g/km CO2 .

* Start/Stop technology is also available in the new version of the Opel Astra 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX (70 kW/95 hp). In the 5-door hatchback, it reduces CO2 emissions from 109 to just 104 g/km and combined fuel consumption from 4.1 liters to 3.9 liters per 100 km. While the 5-door hatchback is available with and without the Start/Stop system, the new Sports Tourer 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX has it as standard (fuel consumption 4.1 l/100 km, emissions 109 g/km CO2).

With the deployment of Start/Stop technology all through the model range, Opel has taken another major step towards its goal of lowering fuel consumption and emissions.

Start/Stop technology is now available in the Opel Agila, Corsa and Astra. Before the end of 2011, it will also be offered in the Meriva, Zafira and Insignia.

Starting 2011 – the new face of Opel Antara and Opel Corsa

Starting in the spring of 2011 with accentuated exterior design, new engines, newly tuned chassis and an upgraded interior, the re-designed Opel Antara combines sporty off-road flair with high utility value and urban chic. The fully re-worked engine line-up consists of two new 2.2 CDTI units with 120 kW/163 hp and 135 kW/184 hp, and a new 2.4 ECOTEC gasoline variant with 123 kW/167 hp. All engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards and guarantee improved driving performance with significantly reduced consumption and emissions. The two available transmissions – a six-speed manual and an automatic – have also been completely newly developed. Refinements to the chassis and active safety include improvements to the ABS system and the standard fitting of Hill Start Assist (HSA) which prevents roll-back when driving away on grades.

Following the overhaul of everything under its skin in 2010 – engine line-up, chassis and steering system – the Opel Corsa gets a new wardrobe in 2011. A redesigned face lends it a sportier, expressive look; new exterior colors and interior ambiances as well as a great offer of individualized, sporty versions make it more attractive than ever. The new multimedia infotainment system called "TOUCH & CONNECT" features a color touch screen, full navigation coverage for 28 European countries, Bluetooth, iPod and USB connections at a very competitive price. The 70 kW/95 hp ecoFLEX 1.3 CDTI version now equipped with Start/Stop technology benefits from 8.7% lower fuel consumption in the urban cycle. Overall, it only requires 3.5 liters per 100 km and emits just 94 g/km CO2.