Opel Ampera-e range calculator

The range calculator that Opel made for the Ampera-e uses the WLTP test cycle, which is very useful not only for Opel Ampera-e’s potential buyers, but also for the Chevrolet Bolt EV – since it’s essentially the same car.

Opel is one of the first automakers to adopt the WLTP cycle (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure). This test cycle is very similar to the one used by the EPA in the USA, which provides realistic range and efficiency figures, unlike the figures provided by the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle).

Let’s see how this new test cycle is performed.

WLTC driving cycle for a Class 3 vehicle

WLTC Class 3 test cycle

Now that you know how the WLTP is performed, let’s see how does the Opel Ampera-e behave.

Did you noticed anything strange?

The range while driving at low speeds and extremely low temperatures depends a lot if you use the heater or not. With the heater off you get to do 463 km, however if you turn it on you’ll only achieve 167 km, which is 296 km (64 %) less.

This is the reason why I think that for extremely cold places, like Canada or Norway, maybe the Chevrolet Bolt EV/Opel Ampera-e isn’t the best electric car. However, if you can get through the winter by using just the heated seats, this is a great car.

If you do use the heater, you might go further if you drive faster, so that the heater is on for the less time possible. This wouldn’t happen in a Renault Zoe – as you can see in its online range calculator -, since it has an efficient heat pump.

I’m confident that GM will introduce a much more efficient heater (heat pump) to its electric car in the 2018 model year.

What do you think? Are the more than 4.000 people who already ordered this electric car in Norway aware of how much inefficient its heater is?! A 64 % drop in range is no joke…