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Electric Opel Astra Test Drive

A successful Union by Philippe Lacroix

With the aim of producing all-electric models by 2028, Opel launches its new Astra in a completely
clean and noise-free mode. The starting price is €40,990.

Under duress, Opel embarks on a crusade to
offer a complete range of vehicles without
a single combustion engine within the
next five years – a challenge imposed by
the Stellantis Group, formed in 2021, of
which the German origin brand is a part.
However, since its acquisition by Peugeot in
2017, Opel has managed to retain a kind of
dual nationality, keeping its own distinctive
personality while benefiting from French
technology. The new 100% electric version
of the Astra is a perfect example of this. It
is built on the same platform as the Peugeot
308, sharing the same mechanical system.
The result is remarkable road performance
with an ideal balance between road holding
and comfortable handling. It is manufactured
in Russelsheim, Germany alongside the DS4,
and reflets the precision associated with
German engineering.

The 156 Horsepower and a Fine Balance
Under the hood of the Astra Electric is a
156 HP (115 kW) electric motor generating a
maximum and immediate torque of 270 Nm.
Despite a substantial 1,679 kg curb weight, it
remains notably lighter than its competitors,
and this contributes to the car's performance,
accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 9.2
seconds, with a top speed of 170 km/h. Three
driving modes are available - Eco, Normal and
Sport - to adapt to the environment (city, road
or freeway) and ... to the remaining range.
Energy is stored in a 54-kWh lithium-ion battery
located in the floor, so no space in the cabin
is wasted. The trunk retains its generous kW DC rapid recharging point. What's more, metres long, 1.86 metres wide and 1.49 m
352-litre volume, expanding to an impressive the standard electric Astra comes with an high, the Astra is captivating with its fluid,
1,268 litres with the rear seats folded down. 11 kW three-phase on-board charger that well-balanced lines, 18-inch alloy wheels and
A lowered centre of gravity further enhances can be connected at home to a wallbox. The two-tone paint and carbon black roof, and its
the car’s road holding capabilities, providing regenerative braking system also recovers exterior mirror caps.
a more stable driving experience. energy. In fact, the 418 km range is best Inside, the all-digital dashboard, designed as a
achieved in city driving in eco mode, while single large screen, stands out for its simplicity
A range of more than 400 km! on the motorway it's best to expect 250 km, and functionality. Unlike that of the 308, it is
The particularly compact, weight-optimised but using the sports mode, which offers the bound to win unanimous approval.
battery pack enables a range of up to 418 km agility needed for safe travel. Finally, the list of driving assistance systems
(theoretically). The Astra's direct competition ranges from front collision alert with automatic
does better ... but with a bigger battery. The Seductive lines emergency braking and pedestrian detection,
trade-off is a shorter recharging time, around From an aesthetic point of view, its French to front and rear parking assistance as well
30% to reach 80% battery capacity at a 100 affiliation has done wonders for it. Being 4.37 as a 360-degree camera.

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