The Opel Ampera and Chevrolet Volt electric vehicles have been awarded with the title ‘International Engine of the Year Award’ with the best green engine. This is the first time that a range extending powertrain has won the award. 76 leading motoring journalists from 35 countries around the world sit on the judging panel which awards prizes in 12 different categories for excellence in powertrain engineering. Powering the Ampera/Volt is a 16 kWh lithium ion battery which powers the 150hp electric motor. Up to 80 kilometres can be covered in battery mode, whilst the 1.4-litre 86hp petrol engine can extend this range to in excess of 500 kilometres.
