Opel will discontinue the Ampera after the launch of the redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Volt, according to two people familiar with the plans cited by Autonews Europe. The next-generation Chevrolet Volt is expected to launch during the second half of 2015.
The main reason for the Ampera’s demise are its slow sales. Despite being named the European Car of the Year in 2012 together with the Volt, the Ampera has been a commercial failure. In 2013, Opel sold 3,184 Amperas, 40 percent less than in 2012. Sales have continued to fall dramatically this year, with Opel selling just 332 Amperas in the first five months, down 67 percent compared to the same period in 2013.
The sad reality for Opel is that it managed to sell just 46 Amperas in its home market of Germany, while Ferrari has sold nearly twice as many F12 Berlinetta supercars (83 units) during the same period! To make matters worse, the Chevrolet Volt is also sold in Europe, taking potential sales from the Ampera, essentially a rebadged Volt.
GM has offered significant discounts lately to make the Ampera more appealing to customers, but results have been disappointing.
In spring 2013, the automaker first suggested the Ampera could be discontinued, as then-Vice Chairman Steve Girsky expressed frustration about the plug-in hybrid’ lukewarm reception in Europe.
“All the governments in Europe said, ‘We want EVs, we want EVs.’ We show up with one, and where is everybody?” Girsky rhetorically asked at the time. GM didn’t comment on future product plans.
By Dan Mihalascu
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