Research Study at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2010 Show
22 September 2010
The Opel Vivaro e-Concept.
At the IAA Commercial Vehicles Fair in Hannover (23-30 September 2010), Opel will unveil a research project on a Vivaro e-Concept, an electric van with up to 400 kilometers (249 miles) extended range. The e-Concept is conceived to have 5.0 cubic meter storage capacity able to carry 750 kilograms (1,600 lbs) of load.
The 111 kW electric motor in the Vivaro e-Concept propulsion system delivers 370 N·m (273 lb-ft) of torque and would offer 100 kilometers (62 miles) pure electric driving range.
We would like to test the acceptance of our advanced propulsion technology by showing the Vivaro e-Concept to the commercial vehicle specialists attending the show. We are convinced that we will get a fantastic reaction from the people who use such vehicles on a daily basis: Electric mobility will allow them to travel in city areas which are now off-limits to petrol and diesel-powered vehicles and the range-extender technology makes it possible to use an electric van for normal routine business.
—Chris Lacey, Executive Director, International Operations Opel/Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles
On longer, regional hauls or shuttle services, the range-extender switches on, extending the total driving range to more than 400 kilometers. Engineers foresee the Vivaro e-Concept as capable of driving permanently with engine and electric motor propulsion, enabling drivers to reach distant destinations.
Opel engineers have mounted the batteries, which can be re-charged on a standard household 230-volt outlet under the floor of the Vivaro e-Concept. There, the lithium ion battery modules are protected from the weather. At the same time the modules provide a low center of gravity for good handling characteristics, protecting especially from crosswind influence.
The e-Concept is envisioned to be capable of meeting the typical daily needs of inner city delivery transport fully electrically.
At this point in time there’s no plans for production in the future. We have an important task to do, which is to conclude the research we are undertaking, have a look at that research and then determine the right configuration for any vehicle in the future...We know we have the technology. Now we’re just looking at the right application and right configuration of that technology before making any plans on future production.
—Chris Lacey
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