The Opel Zafira Life M 75 kWh Electric is a battery electric minivan produced from September 2020 to July 2024. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira Life represents a significant offering in the European market, catering to families and those requiring spacious, versatile transportation. It’s part of the broader trend towards electric multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in Europe, offering a zero-emission alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel-powered vans. The “Life” designation emphasizes its focus on passenger comfort and practicality, distinguishing it from commercial van variants.
Opel Zafira Life M: An Overview
The Zafira Life M is positioned as a people-carrier, designed to accommodate up to nine passengers depending on the configuration. It competes with other large MPVs like the Volkswagen Multivan and Mercedes-Benz V-Class, offering a compelling blend of space, practicality, and now, electric propulsion. The 75 kWh variant, producing 136 horsepower, is a key model within the Zafira Life range, balancing range and performance for everyday use. Its introduction marked Opel’s commitment to electrification and providing sustainable mobility solutions for larger families and businesses.
Engine & Performance
The Zafira Life M 75 kWh Electric is powered by a single electric motor, located transversely at the front axle. This motor delivers 136 horsepower (Hp) and 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) of torque. The powertrain utilizes a 75 kWh lithium-ion battery pack positioned under the floor, providing a gross capacity sufficient for a WLTP-certified all-electric range of 329 km (204.43 miles). Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 12.6 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 130 km/h (80.78 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 15.7 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.2 kg/Nm. Energy consumption is rated at 24.4-27.3 kWh per 100 km (39.27 – 43.94 kWh per 100 miles), translating to 86-77 MPGe and a consumption rate of 4.1 – 3.7 km/kWh (2.5 – 2.3 mi/kWh). The drivetrain is front-wheel drive, utilizing a single-speed automatic transmission.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira Life M is a five-door minivan characterized by its boxy, functional design. This shape maximizes interior space and practicality. The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, with a length of 4956 mm (195.12 in.), a width of 2010 mm (79.13 in.) with mirrors folded, and a height of 1890 mm (74.41 in.). The wheelbase measures 3275 mm (128.94 in.). The interior is designed for flexibility, with seating configurations accommodating between eight and nine passengers. Key features include a spacious cabin, sliding rear doors for easy access, and a large cargo area when seats are folded or removed. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and a robust chassis designed for passenger protection. While not boasting cutting-edge luxury features, the Zafira Life M prioritizes practicality and comfort for long journeys and family transport. The vehicle’s kerb weight ranges from 2140 to 2258 kg (4717.89 – 4978.04 lbs.), with a maximum permissible weight of 3100 kg (6834.33 lbs.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira Life |
| Generation | Zafira Life M |
| Type (Engine) | 75 kWh (136 Hp) Electric |
| Start of production | September, 2020 |
| End of production | July, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 130 km/h (80.78 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 75 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 329 km (204.43 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 24.4-27.3 kWh/100 km |
| Electric motor power | 136 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | ZK01 |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 136 Hp |
| System torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2140-2258 kg (4717.89 – 4978.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3100 kg (6834.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 842-960 kg (1856.29 – 2116.44 lbs.) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4956 mm (195.12 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2010 mm (79.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2204 mm (86.77 in.) |
| Height | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3275 mm (128.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
The Opel Zafira Life M 75 kWh Electric represents a practical and increasingly popular choice for families and businesses seeking a spacious, zero-emission vehicle in the European market. Its combination of ample space, reasonable range, and electric powertrain makes it a compelling alternative to traditional MPVs.
