The Vauxhall Ampera is a plug-in extended-range electric vehicle featuring a 1,398 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine acting solely as a generator. It operates in series hybrid configuration, with no mechanical connection to the wheels. The electric drive unit delivers 111 kW (150 PS) and 370 Nm of torque, while the auxiliary petrol engine produces 63 kW (86 PS) to recharge the 16 kWh lithium-ion battery when depleted.
Based on the Chevrolet Volt platform and sold exclusively as the Ampera in the UK from 2011 to 2015, the vehicle was engineered for zero-emission urban commuting with extended-range capability for longer trips. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise combustion control and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is degradation of the battery thermal management system, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑12‑067. This issue stems from coolant pump wear in the battery cooling loop, potentially leading to reduced electric range and power-limiting events. From 2013, revised coolant pump assemblies and updated thermal control software were introduced.
All production years (2011–2015) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8821).
The Vauxhall Ampera uses a 1,398 cc inline‑four petrol engine as a range extender in a series hybrid system (2011–2015). The engine never drives the wheels directly but powers a generator to recharge the 16 kWh lithium-ion traction battery. The electric motor delivers 111 kW and 370 Nm for propulsion, enabling up to 40 miles of zero-emission range. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban EV usability with long-distance flexibility.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,398 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output (engine) | 63 kW (86 PS) | |
| Electric motor output | 111 kW (150 PS), 370 Nm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch ME17.8.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-loop: engine + battery thermal management | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Traction battery | 16 kWh lithium-ion, liquid-cooled |
The range-extender engine operates only under specific conditions (low battery, high demand), resulting in low annual petrol usage for urban drivers. However, infrequent engine use can lead to stale fuel and carbon buildup—Vauxhall recommends running the engine periodically via 'Hold' mode. The dual-loop cooling system requires GM dexos1 (5W-30) oil and specific coolant for the battery loop. Battery thermal management is critical: degraded coolant pumps (pre-2013) may trigger power-limiting. Post-2013 models feature updated pumps per TSB‑12‑067, improving long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall TSB‑12‑067). Meets ACEA A5/B5 but with OEM-specific additive package.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2011–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8821).
Power Ratings: Electric motor output measured under SAE J1349 standards (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V32300). Engine output is generator-only and not used for propulsion.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V32100, V32101, V32102, TSB‑12‑067
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8821)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Ampera was sold as a standalone model in the UK with no direct platform siblings, though it shares its Voltec extended-range architecture with the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera. This vehicle featured a unique transverse powertrain layout with the petrol range extender mounted alongside the electric drive unit. From 2013, the updated coolant pump and thermal management software per TSB‑12‑067 created minor hardware revisions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Ampera is identified by its unique body style and badging—no engine code is stamped on the block as the petrol unit is a non-propulsive auxiliary. The 8th VIN digit is 'E' for extended-range electric. Under the hood, look for the 1.4L engine with no drive belts to wheels and dual coolant reservoirs (engine and battery loops). Critical differentiation: Ampera uses a series hybrid system—unlike parallel hybrids (e.g., Toyota)—where the engine only generates electricity. Battery coolant pump part numbers differ pre/post TSB‑12‑067—verify via production date on pump housing.
The Ampera's primary reliability risk is battery coolant pump failure in pre-2013 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate vehicles. Vauxhall internal data from 2014 indicated a measurable uptick in thermal-related power-limiting events in early production units, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures due to the vehicle’s low engine runtime. Infrequent engine use and improper coolant maintenance accelerate pump degradation, making periodic system checks critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2012–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL AMPERA.
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