Vauxhall Corsa F e 50 kWh (136 Hp)

Introduction to the Vauxhall Corsa F e 50 kWh (136 Hp)

The Vauxhall Corsa F e 50 kWh (136 Hp) represents a significant milestone in the storied history of the Vauxhall Corsa, marking the model’s first foray into the fully electric vehicle (BEV) market. Launched in June 2019 as part of the sixth-generation Corsa (Corsa F), this electric variant quickly established itself as a key player in the competitive European B-segment, or supermini class. While Vauxhall is a British brand, historically a subsidiary of General Motors and more recently part of the PSA Group (now Stellantis), the Corsa F shares its fundamental platform and electric powertrain with its European sibling, the Opel Corsa-e, and other Stellantis electric models like the Peugeot e-208.

The Corsa has long been a staple on European roads, renowned for its compact dimensions, practicality, and affordability. With the Corsa F e, Vauxhall aimed to retain these core attributes while embracing the burgeoning demand for zero-emission transportation. This electric hatchback offered consumers a familiar package with a modern twist, providing a compelling blend of everyday usability, respectable range, and spirited performance, all wrapped in a contemporary design. Produced until July 2023, the Corsa F e played a crucial role in Vauxhall’s electrification strategy, democratizing electric mobility for a wider audience in its primary markets.

The Vauxhall Corsa F e 50 kWh (136 Hp): Powertrain and Performance

At the heart of the Vauxhall Corsa F e 50 kWh (136 Hp) lies a robust and efficient all-electric powertrain architecture (BEV). This setup features a single electric motor strategically placed on the front axle, driving the front wheels. This synchronous electric motor delivers a potent 136 horsepower (Hp) and an impressive 191.77 lb.-ft. of instant torque. The immediate availability of this torque is a hallmark of electric vehicles, providing brisk acceleration and a responsive driving experience, particularly beneficial in urban environments.

Powering this motor is a sophisticated Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery pack with a gross capacity of 50 kWh, of which 46 kWh is usable. This battery operates at a voltage of 394.2 V and weighs a substantial 771.62 lbs., strategically positioned below the floor and under the rear and front seats to optimize weight distribution and maintain a low center of gravity. This placement not only contributes to the vehicle’s stable handling characteristics but also maximizes interior passenger and cargo space.

Performance figures for the Corsa F e are quite respectable for its class. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 7.6 seconds, making it feel agile and capable in daily driving scenarios. Its maximum speed is electronically limited to 93.21 mph, a common practice for electric vehicles to optimize efficiency and range. Speaking of range, the Corsa F e boasts an all-electric range (WLTP) of 208.78 miles, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys without frequent recharging anxieties. The single-gear automatic transmission ensures a smooth and seamless power delivery, characteristic of modern electric vehicles, further enhancing the driving comfort and simplicity.

Design and Features

The Vauxhall Corsa F e maintains the familiar and appealing aesthetic of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, adopting a practical and stylish 5-door hatchback body type. Designed to accommodate five occupants comfortably, the Corsa F generation introduced a more dynamic and modern design language compared to its predecessors, characterized by sharper lines, a more assertive front fascia, and contemporary lighting signatures. Its compact dimensions make it highly maneuverable in congested city streets and easy to park, with a length of 159.84 inches, a width of 69.49 inches (77.17 inches including mirrors), and a height of 56.42 inches. The wheelbase measures 99.92 inches, contributing to a stable ride quality.

Inside, the Corsa F e prioritizes practicality and modern connectivity. While specific interior features were trim-dependent, the electric variant typically offered digital instrumentation, a central touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a range of driver-assistance technologies. The strategic placement of the battery pack ensures that interior space is minimally compromised. The trunk offers a respectable minimum volume of 10.91 cubic feet, which can be expanded significantly to 39.48 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, providing ample versatility for groceries, luggage, or larger items.

In terms of chassis and safety, the Corsa F e is well-equipped. It features ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping power and control. The steering system utilizes an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, offering light and precise handling, which is particularly advantageous for urban driving and parking maneuvers, reflected in its tight minimum turning circle of 35.1 feet. The vehicle rode on either 195/55 R16 or 205/45 R17 tires, paired with 6.5J x 16 or 7J x 17 wheel rims, respectively, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. Modern safety features, standard across the Corsa F range, included multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems, making it a safe and reliable option for families and individuals alike.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Vauxhall Corsa F e 50 kWh (136 Hp) carved out a significant niche for itself in the European automotive landscape, particularly within the burgeoning electric vehicle segment. Its introduction marked a pivotal moment for Vauxhall, signaling the brand’s serious commitment to electrification and providing a mainstream, accessible electric option to its loyal customer base. The Corsa F e quickly gained a reputation as a practical, no-nonsense electric car, perfectly suited for the demands of urban and suburban driving in markets like the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Its blend of a familiar form factor, competitive electric range, and responsive performance made it an attractive proposition for those transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles to EVs.

In its primary markets, the Corsa F e faced stiff competition from a growing array of electric superminis and compact hatchbacks. Key rivals included the Renault Zoe, which had a head start in the segment, as well as its platform siblings, the Peugeot e-208 and the Opel Corsa-e. Other competitors emerged over its production run, such as the MINI Electric, Fiat 500e, and later, more budget-friendly options like the MG4 EV. Despite this robust competition, the Corsa F e held its own, leveraging the Corsa’s established brand recognition and Vauxhall’s extensive dealer network.

The historical significance of the Corsa F e lies in its role as a trailblazer for Vauxhall. It was not merely an electric variant; it was a statement of intent, demonstrating that electric mobility could be integrated into popular, volume-selling models without sacrificing practicality or affordability. By sharing its platform and powertrain with other Stellantis (then PSA) EVs, it also showcased the benefits of modular electric vehicle architectures, allowing for economies of scale and faster development cycles. This strategic move helped accelerate the adoption of EVs in Europe by offering a familiar and trusted nameplate in an electric format.

The Corsa F e’s success paved the way for future electric models from Vauxhall and its parent company, Stellantis. It helped to normalize electric driving, proving that a compact hatchback could offer a compelling electric experience for everyday use. Its legacy is one of successful transition, demonstrating how an iconic model could evolve to meet modern environmental demands and consumer preferences, thus contributing significantly to the broader shift towards sustainable transportation. While it may not have been sold in the United States, its impact on the European market and its contribution to the global automotive industry’s electrification efforts are undeniable.