Opel is currently conducting durability tests for its Corsa e-Rally Cup, the first-ever battery electric rally car, at Dudenhofen Test Centre, Germany.

"Both cars are covering as many miles as possible, in order to gather the maximum amount of data at an early stage. There is no experience of an electric rally car that we could turn to, so initially we had to rely on calculations and simulations. These are being gradually replaced with real data. Other focuses are on loads and temperature management of the battery, as well as adapting the software. I am pleased to report that our programme is going smoothly", said Opel Motorsport Director, Jorg Schrott. 

The engineers at Opel Motorsport will turn to the speed of the 134bhp electric rally car in the second phase of development. "With a brand cup car, it is important that the performance remains constant and accessible under all conditions. The equipment should guarantee equal opportunity for all participants”, said Jorg Schrott.

As soon as development of the Corsa-e Rally has been completed, a reference car will be built that will also serve as the template for customer vehicles. Around 20 examples are expected to be built for the 2020/21 season, and up to 15 will be delivered to customers in mid-2020 - in time for the first test event in July.

The Corsa-e Rally has the same battery as the production Corsa-e. The 50kWh energy storage capacity enables a range of 336km according to the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure.