Opel Ampera - the future of electric cum hybrids?

While many car makers are busy working on their hybrids and other fuel efficient technologies such as engine Stop/Start, GM have been quietly perfecting their own version of hybrid technology.

GM's Ampera works on the concept of using the gasoline engine to power the batteries instead of powering the wheels directly. This essentially is a far more efficient way than the typical Hybrids used by Toyota and other manufacturers. When the gasoline engine is used to drive the wheels and the battery recharging is done during braking this means that the charging duration is very short as cars spend more time accelerating than braking. The Ampera's technology is at least 50% more efficient in usage of fuel than other hybrids. The Ampera also produces a healthy 370Nm of torque which makes it very lively to drive.

For electric / hybrid cars the focus is more on torque rather than horsepower as electric motors produce near instant torque which is good for getting off line and is able to over come weight without much difficulty. With the on-board range extended generator the Ampera can offer a range of up to 500km which is far better than a normal electric car. This reduces the range anxiety problem faced by many electric car owners.

Ampera also uses the current Lithium-ion battery which is also more efficient and more compact than the Nickel Metal Hydride batteries used in the Toyota Prius. The Ampera can be charge at home in 6 hour using a 240V 10Amp household plug.

The Ampera is definitely the right direction in terms of electric / hybrid car development. It is not ugly compared to other hybrids or electric cars and offers decent driving range.