2012 Geneva: Opel Ampera, Chevrolet Volt win European Car of the Year 2012 award

Opel Ampera / Chevrolet Volt

A group of 59 judges voted on the European “Car of the Year 2012” at the Geneva Motor Show, marking the first occasion that the decision was made at the event.

Winning the award this year is the Opel Ampera and the Chevrolet Volt electric models with 330 points, beating out the Ford Focus’ 256 and the Volkswagen Up’s 281 points.

There to receive the award was Chevrolet President and Managing Director for Europe Susan Docherty and Opel/Vauxhall CEO Karl-Fredrich Stracke.

A total of 35 entries, leading up to seven finalists, met the criteria to be considered, which includes comfort, performance, design, efficiency and technological innovation.

“Our car demonstrates that electric driving can be fun and reliable without ever compromising the owners’ lifestyle,” Docherty said. “It is a proud moment for us and an honor to receive this award from Europe’s leading jury of automotive journalists.”

Both models are powered by a 16kWh lithium ion battery, charging a 11kW/150hp electric motor, with plenty of emissions-free electric mode driving available.

This win adds to a collection of awards that the Volt and the Ampera models have built up, such as the “North American Car of the Year 2011” award, 5 stars from Euro NCAP, which is the most available, and the “World Green Car of the Year 2011” awards.

2012 Geneva Motor Show

All Photos Copyright egmCarTech © Omar Rana.

– By: Alexandra Koken