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Opel Ampera: the electric car with a petrol generator, what you need to know
The Opel Ampera is a plug-in hybrid produced between 2011 and 2015 that runs on electricity, with a petrol engine-generator extending the range when the battery runs out. We look at how the Ampera works, who it suits in the used market, and what to check before buying.
Ampera in brief
The Ampera is a four-seater hatchback whose wheels are always driven by an electric motor. A fully charged battery allows for several tens of kilometres on electric power alone, and when it runs out, the petrol engine kicks in, generating electricity and allowing you to continue driving.
This system is ideal for those who commute short distances in the city but occasionally need to travel further. If you can charge the car at home, most journeys can be completed without using petrol.
Who is this technology for?
The Ampera is designed for those who need an electric car without range anxiety. It's an unusual choice in the used market because there aren't many of these cars, and the technology is more complex than that of conventional cars.
Buyers should understand that the Ampera is neither a classic hybrid nor a classic electric car – it's a unique solution with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Engines and battery
The car is powered by an electric motor, with the power source being a high-voltage lithium-ion battery and an approximately 1.4-litre petrol engine acting as a generator. You can travel several tens of kilometres on electric power alone, and with the petrol engine included, several hundred.
This car doesn't have a traditional gearbox – it uses a special transmission, making for smooth and quiet driving. It can be charged from a standard household socket or a charging station.
What to check when buying a used Ampera
The most important thing is the condition of the high-voltage battery. Ask to see how many kilometres the car can actually travel on electric power alone, and compare it with previous data. A significant difference may indicate a degraded battery.
Check if the charging system works, if the cable and socket are undamaged, and if the car charges to full capacity. Ask if any manufacturer recalls or software updates have been carried out.
Also, ask about servicing: not all garages work on these types of cars, and repairs can be expensive. Before buying, it's worth finding out where maintenance is carried out.
Variants
Names and equipment vary by market and year, so the general variants by equipment level are listed below.
Bazinė
2011–2015The base version with standard equipment.
- Electric motor and petrol generator
- Often – air conditioning and cruise control
- Often – lightweight alloy wheels
Pilnos įrangos
2011–2015Version with enhanced comfort and safety features.
- Often – leather interior and heated seats
- Often – navigation and rear-view camera
- Often — additional assistance systems
Comparing variants
| Bazinė | Pilnos įrangos | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For daily city driving | For comfort and longer journeys |
| Wheels (most often) | 16–17 inch | 17 inch |
| Interior | More basic | More luxurious, with leather |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the base version will suffice if the battery is in good condition. The fully equipped variant is worth choosing for the added comfort.
Pros
- Can only travel short distances on electric power
- No range anxiety thanks to the petrol generator
- Quiet and smooth driving
- Low running costs for daily city driving
Cons
- Complex technology and few specialist services
- Battery degradation can be expensive
- Only four seats
Frequently asked questions
How does the Opel Ampera work?
The wheels are always driven by the electric motor. Initially, battery energy is used, and once that's depleted, the petrol engine kicks in to generate electricity.
Does the Ampera need to be charged every time?
Not necessarily, as the car can run on the petrol generator, but then you lose the main advantage – economical electric driving.
What to look out for when buying?
First and foremost – the condition of the battery and the true electric range, as well as the service history and any manufacturer recalls.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
