Euro volts in 2012

GENERAL Motors will build Opel- and Vauxhall-branded versions of the Chevrolet Volt in the United States for export to Europe in 2012, according to GM Europe president Carl-Peter Forster.

Speaking to German industry journal Automobilwoche, and providing a clue to the source, timing and pricing possibilities for Australia, Mr Forster said the initial production source would be GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck plant and that these first-generation “E-Flex” versions would be based on the compact class but carry “a substantial surcharge … up to 10,000 Euros ($A16,400) more than a comparable model with a conventional powertrain”.

Having said that, Mr Forster emphasised the significant cost savings to consumers based on current fuel prices – and that the purchase price should fall “dramatically” as production volumes rise.

A source familiar with GM’s plans said the Opel electric vehicle would essentially be the Volt with different styling.