Vauxhall has pulled the covers off the all-electric version of the next generation Corsa.
Called the Corsa-e, this reveal comes a day after leaked images of the new model surfaced on an online forum.
For now, this is just the all-electric version of the supermini, which comes with a much bolder new look that’s hardly noticeable next to the car it replaces. The lower roof line offers a much sportier look than before, and the Corsa-e’s matrix LED headlights are also a first for the sector.
The British brand is also promising a more involving driving experience behind the wheel.
But it’s the propulsion which is the biggest difference – as its Vauxhall’s first electric model (not sister brand Opel’s, though) – which features the same powertrain as the new Peugeot e-208.
The Corsa-e’s powertrain produces 134bhp and 260Nm of torque – enough to take it from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds. Its motor is paired to a 50kWh lithium-ion battery that delivers a 205-mile electric range, which Vauxhall says can be extended by up to 40 per cent in Eco mode. That takes the range up to an impressive 287 miles.
An 11kW on-board charger is also included as standard, which allows the Corsa’s batteries to be charged to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes using a rapid charger.
Vauxhall is promising a new premium edge from its supermini, with a large 10-inch touchscreen available with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and wireless smartphone charging.
A seven-inch touchscreen will be included as standard, which also comes with Vauxhall Connect. This offers real-time traffic data, as well as a direct connection to a breakdown service and emergency services if the airbags are activated.
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Multiple safety assists are also offered – such as more traditional autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist, but also adaptive cruise control and blind-spot assist, which are rarely seen on superminis of this size
The Corsa-e’s reveal follows on from last week’s unveiling of the Grandland X PHEV as Vauxhall looks ahead to its 2024 goal to offer an electrified version of each of its models. A Mokka X crossover EV and all-electric Vivaro van will be unveiled in 2020.
Order books for the new Corsa-e will open in a few weeks, followed by the more conventional petrol version.
