Green News: Opel Corsa & Agila To Get Start/Stop Technology

This ecoFLEX technology next will be extended to the Astra range starting with the 1.3 CDTI as part of the Start/Stop rollout. By the end of 2011, all major Opel carlines will offer this CO2-saving innovation.

With the introduction of the Start/Stop technology Opel continues to strive towards its goal in lowering fuel consumption and emissions. The brand is committed to working on a range of innovations that can reduce and ultimately displace oil dependency, minimize CO2 emissions and encourage energy diversity.

Start/Stop technology is most advantageous for city driving, where the Agila and Corsa are particularly suited. The principle is simple: An engine which is not running cannot consume fuel. Instead of idling at a traffic light or train crossing, the engine will automatically stop when the driver engages the neutral gear and releases the clutch pedal. When the traffic light turns green, drivers simply press the clutch pedal to restart the engine, shift into first gear and take off. Naturally, the heating performance, power steering and brake performance is maintained to keep occupants safe and comfortable even while the engine is temporarily off.

By eliminating idling time, engines emit less greenhouse gases and, importantly, create less noise. The Corsa 1.3 CDTI 75 hp (190Nm/55 kW) with optional Start/Stop requires only 4.0 l/100 km and emits 105 grams CO2, 6.25 percent less than the same variant without the technology in the combined cycle. Owners will see the greatest savings in city driving. In the urban cycle, the Corsa with Start/Stop emits 10.6 percent less CO2 than the Corsa without this eco-friendly technology. In the urban cycle, for the Corsa uses 4.8 l/100 km, compared with 5.3 l/100 km without Start/Stop. In the combined cycle, the Corsa requires only 4.0 liters of diesel per 100 km.

Credits: wilswong