AHEAD OF the opening of the Geneva Motor Show this week, Opel’s Ampera has been voted European Car of the Year 2012
The award was announced on the eve of the press day as executives gathered in the Swiss city for what has become the most important annual motor show in Europe.
In keeping with the green theme at most auto shows these days, the Ampera runs solely on electric power for up to 80kms and thereafter on electricity generated from an on-board 1.4-litre petrol engine. It goes on sale in Ireland this autumn.
Prices for the Ampera are expected to be relatively high in Ireland – €40,000 – and while it’s not expected to sell in large volumes it will overcome the fears of some potential electric car buyers of being stranded once the charge runs out.
The biggest talking point at the show will be how the big brands tackle the problem of over-capacity in Europe.
To follow the Geneva motor show live visit: irishtimes.com/motorsfor regular blogs throughout the day
