Voltec-powered 2012 Opel Ampera to surface in Geneva

Voltec-powered 2012 Opel Ampera to surface in Geneva

Opel Ampera, the long-awaited plug-in hybrid vehicle motivated by GM’s Voltec technology currently employed in the Chevy Volt PHEV, will be officially unveiled at the 2009 international motor show in Geneva.

In its press release, GM effectively confirmed that its first European PHEV will feature the Voltec propulsion technology that lets the compact four-seater travel around 60 kilometers (37 miles) on electric power alone.

2012 Opel Ampera (rear view)

For longer distances, the car’s on-board lithium-ion batteries may be recharged on the go with electricity generated by a small-displacement internal combustion engine.

Given that an average European driver travels less than 50km on a normal day, the batteries will usually be recharged by a standard 230v power outlet.

It is expected, that first lot of Opel Ampera will be assembled in the United States, but later the PHEV’s production will be moved to one of GM’s assembly facilities in Germany.

Photos: GM/Opel

See also: Volt-based Opel Ampera PHEV will conquer Europe in 2011