Vauxhall’s all-new Corsa-e, one of the most hotly-anticipated new cars to go on sale in 2019. As part of the PACE! strategic plan, Vauxhall’s Corsa-e and Grandland X PHEV will lead the British brand’s electric charge this year. Two more all-electric models will follow in 2020, including the successor to the Mokka X SUV and Vivaro van. All models are vital to Vauxhall’s ongoing reduction of CO2.
By 2024, Vauxhall will have an electrified version of every model in its range. A key role is played by the shared multi-energy platforms. They make it possible to offer various propulsion systems on a common platform.
Corsa has been Vauxhall’s best-selling car for many years, and most drivers are familiar with its name and looks. The Corsa-e has 205 mile range that can be extended by up to 40 per cent in Eco mode. The battery can be charged to 80 per cent capacity in 30 minutes at a rapid-charge station.
With 136hp and 260Nm of torque from the electric propulsion system, the Corsa-e sprints from 0-31mph in just 2.8 seconds. The Corsa-e reaches 62mph in just 8.1 seconds.
Corsa-e drivers can choose from three drive modes: Normal, Eco and Sport. In Normal mode, the 50kWh battery allows a driving range of 211 miles according to WLTP. Sport alters responsiveness and delivers more performance, which result in a moderate loss in driving range of around 10 per cent. In “Eco”, the Corsa-e becomes a long-distance runner. All the car’s systems and the electric drive are adjusted for maximum energy efficiency, without significant detrimental effect on comfort. Compared with “Sport”, range is increased by up to 40 per cent.
In order to further improve efficiency, the Corsa-e features a regenerative braking system to recover the energy produced under braking or deceleration. This excess kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and either used immediately or stored in the battery. The driver can choose between two levels. At the lower level, the Corsa-e’s deceleration is similar to the engine-braking of a conventional car. At the highest level of energy recuperation, the drag torque of the electric motor is much higher.
The Corsa-e is as easy to charge as it is to drive. It charges via a cable that can connect to a wallbox or fast charger (and the battery is guaranteed for eight years). The Corsa-e is equipped as standard with an 11kW on-board charger.
The Corsa-e is a pioneer in every way thanks to its advanced technologies, driver assistance systems and connectivity, which are more familiar to premium car drivers.
Numerous camera and radar-based assistance systems enable safer, more relaxed driving. The new Corsa’s infotainment systems up to and including the Multimedia Navi Pro are available with a 10-inch colour touchscreen. They are compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The car has numerous advanced driver assistance systems, which enable safer, more relaxed driving, that are based on camera and optional radar technology.
For example, camera-based automatic emergency braking is activated if a collision threatens at speeds between 3mph and 25mph. Up to 18mph the car can be brought to a standstill. Between 30 and 52mph the car’s speed decreases by up to 13mph. The front camera can identify vehicles and pedestrians.
With Navi as standard, the new Corsa’s infotainment ranges from the Multimedia Radio and Multimedia Navi with 7-inch colour touchscreen, to the top-of-the-range Multimedia Navi Pro with 10-inch colour touchscreen. Angled slightly toward the driver, each system is positioned for optimum ergonomics in the clearly arranged instrument panel.
The Corsa-e also has an “Open & Start” keyless locking and start system (with anti-theft protection) which recognises the driver via a smart device. The engine is switched on a via the start button in the instrument panel.
So the Corsa-e, is packed full of tech and offers a substantial daily mileague range. Assuming a charge overnight, the Corsa-e will help drivers to have greater confidence to embrace a fully electric drive and one that will fit their daily commute and business activities.
