Published November 5, 2012
By Philippe Crowe
GM’s Volt and its derivatives are piling up the honors on the other side of the pond.
The Volt’s British version, the Ampera, has been honored as Green Vehicle of the Year by fleet decision-makers at the British 2012 Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO) Awards.
The awards are voted online exclusively by the ACFO membership. GM explained this award is highly-prized because it reflects the day-to-day operational experience and expertise of fleet decision-makers.
It is noteworthy that fleet decision makers do not buy a car on feelings, but on hard facts and numbers.
“Fleet decision-makers are reliant on motor manufacturers to deliver vehicles that are cost effective to operate, safe, reliable and environmentally-friendly and supplier companies to provide a first class service,” said Julie Jenner ACFO chairman. “The Ampera’s revolutionary technology was clearly very popular with our ACFO members and on their behalf I congratulate Vauxhall in bringing such a cutting-edge vehicle to market.”
This prize is the latest in a long line of over 40 top awards for the Ampera, which include the current European Car of the Year, What Car? Green Car of the Year and Top Gear magazine’s Green Car of the Year.
“We are delighted that the Ampera has won the Green Vehicle of the Year,” said Maurice Howkins, Vauxhall’s fleet sales customer relationship director. “It’s great news for Vauxhall that the revolutionary Ampera and its cutting edge technology have been recognized by the ACFO.”
The Ampera arrived in UK showrooms in May this year. It has in the UK a real-world battery range of between 25-50 miles, after which a small range-extender motor intervenes to provide up to an additional 300-plus mile range.
Pricing in the UK starts at £29,995 ($48,055), including a £5,000 ($8,010) government grant.
