The future of cars is undoubtedly electric, but price is still a barrier to entry for many.
General Motors has confirmed plans to build an “affordable” electric car, set for production in 2017.
The vehicle will be a five-seater, and will be manufactured by Opel, the company’s European division.
It’s set to be named the Ampera-e, and will be very similar to the existing Chevrolet Bolt, currently pegged for the USA.
The announcement – first reported by Reuters – was made by GM CEO Mary Barra, who said:
“Like its twin, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, the Ampera-e promises to transform the electric vehicle market in Europe as the first EV that combines long range at an affordable price.”
2017 Chevrolet Bolt interior
Related: Apple Car
According to the report, the Ampera-e will offer “a greater electric range than the vast majority of electric vehicles currently available in Europe”.
GM also noted that pricing details would be provided at a later date.
Check out our interview with Ford on the future of driverless cars:
Would you be tempted by an “affordable” electric vehicle? Let us know in the comments.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.