- German automaker Opel is releasing what it claims is the world's first all-electric rally car.
- It's a modified version of the Europe-only Opel Corsa-e, which itself is the electric version of the Corsa.
- The Corsa-e is part of Opel's plan to electrifying every model they offer by 2024.
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German car manufacturer Opel has made what it claims is the world's first all-electric rally car, which is based on the carmaker's first electric vehicle.
The Corsa-e is the first time the automaker is offering a battery-electric version of the Corsa, one of its most popular models.
"It is no coincidence that our first pure electric model of the new generation is a Corsa, our most popular nameplate and one of the best-selling cars in Europe", Michael Lohscheller told journalists at a press conference earlier this year in Rüsselsheim, Germany announcing the company's electrification strategy.
"The Corsa-e not only makes electric mobility more practical and convenient but also more accessible."
The rally car version features a lightweight body, integrated roll-cage, and underbody protection for the engine and transmission. There's also an electric fire extinguisher, quick releases for the hood and hatchback, and regenerative braking capabilities to increase safety.
Opel plans on making 15 of the rally cars, specifically for the 2020 to 2021 ADAC Opel e-Rally Cup, according to Roadshow. The electric vehicle rally cup, which is the first of its kind, brings together around 100 young drivers from 18 countries to race with electric drives, according to President ADAC Sport Hermann Tomczyk in a prepared statement.
Opel already has plans to electrify more models, including what is set to be the company's first plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive, the Grandland X Hybrid4. The automaker plans to have an electrified version of all of their car models by 2024, according to Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller in a prepared statement.
Take a look at the world's first all-electric rally car: