Opel Astra Electric: A Familiar Powertrain with Some Drawbacks
Opel has unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the Opel Astra Electric, which features the well-known powertrain found in several other Stellantis products. With a 156 hp electric motor, a 54 kWh battery, and a maximum charging speed of 100 kW, the Astra Electric offers a smooth and powerful driving experience.
The Astra Electric shares its powertrain with models such as the DS 3, the Opel Corsa Electric, and the Peugeot e-308. This uniformity in Stellantis’ model range is becoming more apparent. Interestingly, both the Astra Electric and the Peugeot e-308 come in a station wagon variant, which is particularly appealing for the Netherlands market.
One impressive feat achieved by Opel’s developers is the relatively light weight of the Astra Electric. Weighing in at 1679 kilograms, it is comparable to a plug-in hybrid. This is thanks to the positioning of the battery under the rear seat, which allows for a generous 70 liters of trunk space. The hatchback variant offers between 352 and 1268 liters of luggage capacity, while the Touring Sports model provides 516 to 1533 liters of space.
However, there are some drawbacks to the Astra Electric. Opel claims to have kept the seating position low in the front, despite the second part of the battery pack being located under the front seats. However, some reviewers have found that the driver’s seat does not go down far enough, resulting in a higher seating position that may not be ideal for everyone.
Another area where the Astra Electric falls slightly short is in the quality of materials used in the interior. When compared to the Peugeot 308, Opel’s position within the Stellantis hierarchy becomes evident. The materials in the 308 are visibly more beautiful, giving it a slight edge in terms of perceived luxury.
Nevertheless, the Astra Electric does not disappoint when it comes to standard equipment. It comes equipped with LED headlights with high beam assist, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, two digital screens, and automatic air conditioning.
Overall, the Opel Astra Electric receives positive feedback for its smooth powertrain and spacious interior. However, it does not set a new standard with its Stellantis technology. For those interested, the Sports Tourer variant of the Astra Electric may be the most appealing option.
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How does the Opel Astra Electric’s powertrain compare to other Stellantis vehicles in terms of power output and torque?
DS 3 offer the same power output and torque, suggesting that Stellantis is integrating its powertrain technology across multiple brands.
One of the key advantages of the Opel Astra Electric is its range. With a full charge, the Astra Electric can travel up to 330 km (205 miles) on a single charge, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer trips. The 54 kWh battery allows for efficient energy consumption and reduces the need for frequent charging. Additionally, the Astra Electric supports fast charging, with a maximum charging speed of 100 kW, allowing for quick top-ups when needed.
In terms of driving experience, the Astra Electric provides a smooth and powerful ride. The 156 hp electric motor delivers instant torque, ensuring quick acceleration and responsive handling. The power delivery is consistent and controlled, providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
However, there are some drawbacks to the Opel Astra Electric. One of the notable downsides is the lack of a dedicated charging network. While the Astra Electric supports fast charging, the availability of high-power charging stations can be limited in some areas. This can potentially result in longer charging times and inconvenience for owners who rely on public charging infrastructure.
Another downside is the limited interior space compared to its traditional combustion engine counterpart. The Astra Electric’s battery pack takes up valuable space, reducing the overall storage capacity. This can be a drawback for those seeking a practical and spacious vehicle.
Overall, the Opel Astra Electric offers a familiar powertrain found in other Stellantis products, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience. Its range and fast-charging capabilities make it suitable for daily use and longer trips. However, the lack of a dedicated charging network and limited interior space are some drawbacks to consider. Nonetheless, it’s a step in the right direction for Opel and Stellantis in their journey towards sustainable mobility.
“The Opel Astra Electric seems to be a promising addition to Stellantis’ electric lineup. Its powertrain and features show great potential in terms of efficiency and performance. Looking forward to seeing how it fares in the competitive electric vehicle market!”
The Opel Astra Electric from Stellantis proves to be a promising addition to the electric vehicle lineup. With its efficient powertrain and impressive features, it offers a practical and sustainable driving experience.