Plug-in hybrids are the next big wave in automotive technology, as the slew of concepts being released in anticipation of the Frankfurt auto show attest. Yesterday, Volvo announced its ReCharge plug-in hybrid concept. Today, it’s Opel’s turn to join the ranks.
The Opel E-Flex shares some technology and a similar frame with the Chevy Volt, although the E-Flex uses a diesel motor to charge the batteries. Range on battery power alone is expected to be in the neighborhood of 100km (62mi). Combined range is an impressive 775km (480mi). Once the lithium-ion batteries are sufficiently depleted, the diesel motor will kick in to top them up.
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