New Opel Rocks-e revealed as Citroen Ami-based micro EV
The Opel Rocks-e is a German-bound Citroen Ami derivative with tweaked styling and increased range
This is the new Opel Rocks-e - Opel’s own take on the all-electric Citroen Ami microcar, which will launch soon in Germany and in other European markets in 2022. However, it won’t make it to the UK as a Vauxhall.
The Rocks-e shares its mechanicals with the Ami, using a single 8bhp electric motor on the front axle, powered by a 5.5kWh battery that can be fully charged in three and a half hours. This powers the Rocks-e to a top speed of 28mph, but interestingly, quoted range is 47 miles - three miles up on the Ami. The Rocks-e weighs in at 471kg, compared to the Ami’s 485kg, which may explain the range discrepancy.
The increased range could also be a result of the Opel’s subtly restyled body, with less aerodynamic drag than the Citroen. The Rocks-e uses slightly reshaped front and rear bumpers, and its front and rear lights are more smoothly integrated into the body, employing the ‘Vizor’ design seen on the latest Opel and Vauxhall models.
The sills have been resculpted, and the Rocks-e is fitted with a set of low drag, ‘cross’ design wheels. The Rocks-e seats two, and shares its diminutive dimensions with the Citroen counterpart, at 2.41 metres long and 1.39 metres wide.
Like the Ami, the main draw of the Rocks-e is that it’s actually classed as a quadricycle, thanks to its low mass and modest top speed. That means that it can be driven by those who don’t yet have a full driving licence in markets with quadricycle legality. For instance, it can be driven in Germany from the age of 15, by those who hold a light motor vehicle licence.
Opel hasn’t revealed exact pricing details for the Rocks-e, but suggests that a monthly leasing plan will come in at around the same cost as a monthly public transport ticket. Orders will open in Germany this autumn.
Citroen has not yet confirmed a UK launch of the Ami, but is currently taking expressions of interest from potential British buyers ahead of a possible launch.
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