2009 Geneva Auto Show: Opel Ampera

Like the Volt, the Ampera is a five-door hatchback. It sits on the same Delta 2 global compact architecture. The production version of the Ampera is due in late 2010 or early 2011 and is expected be marketed in Europe under the Opel and Vauxhall brands.

Ampera uses GM's Voltec (formerly E-Flex) hybrid electric driveline. Opel says the car can travel up to 38 miles on a single charge from its lithium-ion battery pack, which can be charged from a standard European 230-volt outlet. Once the battery pack is exhausted, electricity for the motor is generated from a small internal-combustion engine.

While body panels appear to be similar between the Volt and the Ampera, the Opel features a unique front fascia with styling cues derived from the new Insignia.

Inside Line says: The beauty of GM's Voltec architecture is that it can accommodate either a small gasoline or diesel engine as a range extender. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent