Opel Ampera Wins Alternative Energy Rally Monte Carlo

As we reported on March 19, Opel entered six factory-backed Amperas into the Alternative Energy Rally Monte Carlo. Not only did one of these cars win, but four of them finished in the top 10 out of 130 competitors. Bernard Darniche and Joseph Lambert won the rally. The other Amperas finished in third, seventh and eighth. 

“The Ampera’s success in this versatility contest under very challenging conditions proves its impressive balance between durability and fuel efficiency. This underscores our leadership role in the field of alternative propulsion,” said Opel’s Director E-mobility, Enno Fuchs. 

The 13th Alternative Energy Rally Monte Carlo ran 822km from Annecy-le-Vieux, Clermont Ferrand, France, to Monte Carlo over the course of two days. The second day followed the route of the original Rally Monte Carlo through the French Alps to Monaco. 

Cars must produce less than 115g/km of CO2, and the organizers calculate an equivalency for all of the entrants based on weight and power. 

The Ampera has a maximum electric range of 80km thanks to its 150hp electric motor and 16kWh battery, which is supplemented by a petrol engine to charge the batteries when necessary.