The Vauxhall Ampera isn’t available to drive yet but that hasn’t stopped it from being named Green Car of the Year at last night’s What Car? Green Awards ceremony.
What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett said: “The Vauxhall Ampera represents a massive step for alternative-fuel cars. It offers all the benefits of owning an electric vehicle with virtually none of the drawbacks. It gives motorists the ability to dramatically reduce their emissions without changing their lifestyle, which is exactly what green cars need to do.”
Understandably pleased with the win, Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall MD commented:
“The Ampera takes Vauxhall into a new era. It can genuinely be considered a car that can perform a full range of family duties, with its four-seats and five-door body. Yet its 100mph performance and brisk acceleration mean that it can hold its own in the cut and thrust of everyday motoring, unlike many EVs currently on sale.”
Order books for the 40g/km CO2 emitting car are set to open by the end of 2011, with UK buyers able to reserve one of the first build slots for just £150.
Other winners included the brand new Kia Picanto, with its impressive 1.0 litre petrol engine getting praise for its ultra low NOx emissions.
Full list of winners:
- Supermini – Kia Picanto 1.0 1 Air
- Small Family Car – Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI Bluemotion
- Family Car – Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi
- Executive Car – BMW 318d ES
- MPV – Renault Grand Scenic 1.6 dCI
- Alternative Fuel Car – Vauxhall Ampera
- SUV – Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4
- Fun Car – MINI Cooper D
- Overall – Vauxhall Ampera
