Opel's electric Mokka is in for a big improvement in its performance in the new year, with a new battery and electric motor that push its claimed range over the 400km mark. Opel has also changed its name from Mokka-e to Mokka Electric to mark the change.
Bigger, 54kWh battery
Up till now, the Mokka has used a 50kWh (45kWh useable) battery and a 136hp (100kW) electric motor, which gave it a claimed range of 338km (and a realistic range of between 250-280km in the real world). Now, that's changing thanks to a new battery with 54kWh capacity (51KWh of which is useable) and a 156hp electric motor which push its range to a claimed 406km.
That's assuming, of course, that you can match the claimed 15.6kWh/100km electric economy figure, but to help you with that, there's a new standard-fit heat-pump heating system which should be a boon for efficiency. As before, the battery's maximum charging speed at a rapid DC public charging station is 100kW. A charge-up to 80 per cent power takes around 30 minutes.
More powerful, more efficient
Florian Huettl, Opel CEO, said: "'e' becomes 'Electric'. With the new suffix, we underline that the Opel Mokka offers even more electric driving fun. It is an electric vehicle that is unparalleled in its segment. Ever since it was launched, our extraordinary compact SUV has impressed people with its bold and pure design, individual character and proven suitability for everyday use. And with a new electric drive and larger battery, we are now making the Mokka Electric even more powerful, even more efficient, and better. That is the Opel approach to well thought-out 'Greenovation'."
Mokka Electric drivers can choose between the three driving modes Eco, Normal and Sport, and obviously, it's in Eco mode that the vehicle is most energy-efficient in favour of the overall range. There's also a 'B' mode for the transmission, which ramps up the regenerative braking and the myOpel app, which can be used to program the pre-conditioning by remote control, "ensuring a cosy atmosphere right from the start, especially during the colder months of the year."
All-electric brand by 2028
According to Opel, "The Mokka Electric with more power and a longer range is another example of how Opel is consistently pushing ahead with its electric offensive. Twelve electrified Opel models are already available today, including a range of light commercial vehicles. By 2024, the manufacturer will also offer every model in an electrified version. And by 2028, Opel will become an all-electric brand in Europe."