Opel showcases the strength and reliability of the Opel Corsa Rally Electric in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup. After three seasons, it is evident that electric rallying is not only feasible but also efficient and competitive.
Why It Matters
Electric vehicles (EVs) in rallying signifies a shift towards a more sustainable motorsport. The successful adoption and positive response to the world’s first electric one-make rally cup underscore the potential for EVs in high-performance sectors.
Key Points
- Opel Corsa Rally Electric vehicles, with a power of 100 kW/136 hp, have proven to be robust, fast, and reliable in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup.
- The current season features participants from seven nations, with rallies hosted in five countries. More countries are showing interest for participation in 2024.
- On performance, these electric cars often match the stage times of Rally5 cars, even with less power. Specifically, at the Rallye Vosges Grand-Est, the Corsa Rally Electric lagged by only two seconds per kilometre compared to higher powered Rally4 cars.
- Key components like the battery, DC inverter, and electric motor have shown exceptional reliability throughout the tests and events. Notably, the high-voltage battery showcased a remaining storage capacity of 96% even after rigorous use, debunking speculations of frequent replacements.
- Since its introduction, the Corsa Rally Electric has seen numerous advancements, including modifications to transmission, reinforced drive shafts, and software updates for optimized battery management.
- The charging infrastructure, developed in collaboration between ADAC and Opel, ensures efficient and seamless charging, even under varied rally conditions.
Bottom Line
The success and continuous development of the Opel Corsa Rally Electric in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup demonstrates the promising future of electric vehicles in competitive motorsport. Beyond just feasibility, the electric rally offers a thrilling experience for participants and spectators alike.
