The Vauxhall Ampera-e is a fully electric vehicle powered by a 150 kW permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor and a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Produced between 2017 and 2019, it delivers 201 PS (150 kW) and 360 Nm of torque instantly from 0 rpm, providing brisk acceleration and seamless urban and highway performance without gear shifts or emissions.
Based on the Chevrolet Bolt EV platform and sold exclusively as the Ampera-e in Europe, the vehicle was engineered for zero-emission commuting with a certified WLTP range of up to 423 km. Emissions compliance is inherent to its all-electric design, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP EV standards across all production years.
One documented concern is battery thermal management degradation in high-ambient climates, which can reduce usable capacity over time. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TIS 18‑09‑07, is linked to sustained DC fast charging above 45 °C ambient temperature. Vauxhall recommended limiting frequent high-power charging in hot conditions to preserve long-term battery health.
All production years 2017–2019 meet Euro 6d-TEMP EV standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7210).
The Vauxhall Ampera-e is a fully electric vehicle featuring a 150 kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor and 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (2017–2019). It delivers instant torque and smooth acceleration with no tailpipe emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP EV standards, it prioritises range efficiency, regenerative braking, and DC fast-charging capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Motor type | Permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor | |
| Peak power | 150 kW (201 PS) | |
| Peak torque | 360 Nm (available from 0 rpm) | |
| Battery capacity | 60 kWh (usable: ~57 kWh) | |
| Battery chemistry | Lithium-ion NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) | |
| Drive type | Front-wheel drive | |
| Transmission | Single-speed reduction gear (7.05:1) | |
| Charging (AC) | Up to 7.4 kW (Type 2, 32A single-phase) | |
| Charging (DC) | Up to 50 kW (CCS Combo 2) | |
| WLTP range | Up to 423 km | |
| 0–100 km/h | 7.3 seconds | |
| Top speed | 150 km/h (electronically limited) | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled battery and power electronics | |
| Regenerative braking | Adjustable via steering-wheel paddles (up to 0.2g decel) | |
| Curb weight | 1,615 kg |
The Ampera-e offers strong acceleration and class-leading range but requires careful thermal management of the battery pack to preserve longevity. Vauxhall recommends avoiding repeated DC fast charging above 45 °C ambient temperature, as this accelerates cell degradation per TIS 18‑09‑07. The single-speed gearbox requires no fluid changes, but the reduction gear oil should be inspected every 100,000 km. Regenerative braking reduces mechanical brake wear, but periodic inspection of brake fluid and pads is still required due to moisture absorption and infrequent use.
Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions; certified under Euro 6d-TEMP EV (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7210).
Battery Specs: 60 kWh NMC lithium-ion pack with liquid cooling (Vauxhall TIS Doc. AMP‑B1001).
Range Ratings: WLTP combined range up to 423 km (VCA certification). Real-world range varies with climate, speed, and load.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AMP‑B1001, AMP‑C1002, TIS 18‑09‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7210)
UNECE Regulation No 100 (Electric Vehicle Safety)
The Vauxhall Ampera-e was sold as a standalone all-electric hatchback from 2017 to 2019 and shares its platform, powertrain, and battery architecture with the Chevrolet Bolt EV under GM's global EV strategy. No mechanical variants exist—only one trim level was offered in the UK and Europe. All units feature identical motor, inverter, and battery configurations, with minor regional differences in software calibration. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Ampera-e is identified by its model badge and VIN. The 8th VIN digit is 'E' for electric powertrain (Vauxhall TIS AMP‑ID01). Unlike hybrids, there is no internal combustion engine—only an electric motor mounted transversely under the bonnet. The CCS Combo 2 charge port is located on the front left fender. Battery serial number is visible under the rear seat and matches the pack label in the boot. All Ampera-e units use the same LG Chem battery modules (part #96984327); no sub-variants exist within the production run.
The Ampera-e is mechanically simple but faces battery longevity concerns under high-heat fast-charging conditions. Vauxhall internal data from 2019 indicated a measurable decline in usable capacity for vehicles routinely DC-charged in southern European climates, while UK DVSA records show minimal drivetrain failures due to the absence of combustion components. The primary reliability focus is on battery thermal management and inverter cooling system integrity.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2017–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL AMPERA-E.
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