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…
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 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'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.
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The Ampera offers innovative extended-range capability with generally robust electric drivetrain performance. Early models (2011–2012) had battery coolant pump reliability concerns, but post-2013 revisions improved thermal system durability. With periodic engine use, proper coolant maintenance, and 12V battery care, the vehicle can remain reliable beyond 150,000 km.
Top issues include battery coolant pump failure (pre-2013), stale fuel/carbon buildup from infrequent engine use, 12V auxiliary battery drain, and inverter thermal faults. These are documented in Vauxhall TSB‑12‑067 and service records. Most risks are mitigated with regular system checks and driving habits that engage the range extender periodically.
The Ampera was sold as a standalone model in the UK from 2011 to 2015. It shares its Voltec extended-range architecture with the Opel Ampera and Chevrolet Volt, but no other Vauxhall models used this powertrain. It is Vauxhall’s only series hybrid vehicle to date.
No meaningful tuning is possible. The electric motor and power electronics are tightly integrated with safety and thermal limits. The petrol engine is generator-only and cannot be modified to increase output. Aftermarket modifications are unsupported and may void high-voltage system warranties or certifications.
In EV mode: 0 L/100km for up to 40 miles. In extended-range mode: ~5.0 L/100km (highway) or ~45 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed usage (50% electric) typically achieves 80–120 mpg UK equivalent. Official WLTP figures are not applicable due to pre-2017 certification under NEDC.
Technically yes, but the 1.4L range-extender engine rarely accumulates high mileage and is not used for propulsion. If the timing chain fails, it could cause internal damage, but such failures are extremely rare due to low annual engine runtime in typical usage.
Vauxhall specifies GM dexos1 (SAE 5W‑30) synthetic oil for the range-extender engine. Oil changes should occur every 2 years or 30,000 km—even with low mileage—due to potential fuel dilution and condensation from infrequent use. Using non-dexos1 oil risks sludge and accelerated wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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EUR-Lex
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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