THE Vauxhall Ampera has been named both Green Car of the Year 2011 and also top alternative-fuel car in a leading honours list.
And despite the car not going on sale until next year, this is not the first time the Ampera has scooped a top award from What Car? – in 2009 it was given the magazine’s Green Technology award.
Judges chief Chas Hallett said: “The Vauxhall Ampera represents a massive step for alternative-fuel cars. It offers all the benefits of owning an electric vehicle with virtually none of the drawbacks.
“It gives motorists the ability to dramatically reduce their emissions without changing their lifestyle, which is exactly what green cars need to do.”
Drivers can expect between 25-50 miles of zero-tailpipe emissions motoring, yet thanks to the Ampera’s range-extender generator, it can be driven for up to 310 miles without having to re-charge the battery or refill the fuel tank.
“The Ampera takes Vauxhall into a new era,” said Vauxhall boss Duncan Aldred. “It can genuinely be considered a car that can perform a full range of family duties, with its four-seats and five-door body.
“Yet its 100mph performance and brisk acceleration mean that it can hold its own in the cut and thrust of everyday motoring, unlike many EVs currently on sale.”
The Kia Picanto 1.0 1 Air was named top green supermini, while the award for best green small family car went to Volkswagen for the Golf Bluemotion.
Ford’s Mondeo picked up the green family car prize, and the BMW 3 Series 318d was named best green executive car. Renault’s Scénic picked up the award for best green MPV.
SUVs continue to be popular with consumers, and the green SUV award went to Peugeot for the 3008 2.0 HDi Hybrid4, the world’s first production diesel hybrid.
The British built Mini 1.6D Cooper picked up the fun car award, and in the process proved that being green doesn’t mean waving goodbye to driving enjoyment.