English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Opel Ampera-e: electric car, battery and what to know when buying
Opel Ampera-e — the all-electric hatchback produced from 2017 to 2019 with a large battery and impressive range. We look at how it differs from the previous Ampera, what advantages it offers, and what to check before buying a used one.
Ampera-e in brief
The Ampera-e is a five-door electric hatchback with a design similar to the Chevrolet Bolt. Unlike the previous Ampera, it doesn't have an internal combustion engine—it's powered solely by electricity.
It stands out with its high roofline, spacious interior for its class, and long range compared to other electric cars of its time. It's rare in the used market, as few were sold in Europe.
How it differs from the Ampera
The original Ampera (2011–2015) was a plug-in hybrid with a petrol generator, while the Ampera-e is a pure electric vehicle with a significantly larger battery and longer range. They're fundamentally different cars, with the only similarity being their name.
If you need a car without fuel and have convenient charging options, the Ampera-e is a much more sensible choice. If you often drive long distances without charging opportunities, it's crucial to plan your routes in advance.
Engine, battery, and charging
The car is powered by a single electric motor with around 200 hp, and energy is supplied by a roughly 60 kWh high-voltage battery. The real-world range depends on the time of year, driving speed, and battery condition.
This car doesn't have a traditional gearbox – it uses a simple single-speed transmission, making for smooth and quiet driving. It can be charged from a household socket, a standard charging station, or a fast-charging station.
What to check when buying a used Ampera-e
The most important thing is the battery condition. Ask for a battery health check and compare the real range with the initial one. If possible, have diagnostics done at an authorized or specialized service center.
Check the charging system: the socket, cable, and whether the car charges both slowly and quickly. Ask if the manufacturer's recall work and software updates have been done.
Test all the electronics: multimedia, sensors, climate control. Also, consider where you can get service work done, as not all service centers work on these types of cars.
Versions
The Ampera-e was sold in limited numbers in Europe, and the equipment choices depended on the market. General information is provided below.
Bazinė
2017–2019The base electric version with a rich standard equipment package.
- Often includes navigation and a rear-view camera
- Often includes heated seats and steering wheel
- Fast-charging capability
Ampera-e vs Ampera comparison
| Ampera-e | Ampera (2011–2015) | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Pure electric vehicle | Electric with petrol generator |
| Battery | Around 60 kWh | Around 16 kWh |
| Range on electric only | A few hundred kilometres | A few dozen kilometres |
| Who it suits | For daily commuting and long-distance driving | For city driving and longer journeys without charging |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€ |
If you have a convenient charging spot, the Ampera-e is a far more versatile choice than the original Ampera. If you frequently drive where charging isn't available, opt for a car with a generator.
Pros
- Large range on electric only
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Spacious interior for its class
- Low running costs
Cons
- Few specialist services required
- Battery degradation can be expensive
- Rare model – limited choice
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ampera-e a hybrid?
No. The Ampera-e is a pure electric vehicle with no petrol engine, so it needs to be charged regularly.
What's the Ampera-e's range?
The theoretical range is several hundred kilometres, but the real-world range depends on the time of year, speed and battery condition.
What to look out for when buying?
First and foremost – the battery condition, charging system and service availability.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
