Opel Combo Electric Life 50 kWh

Overview

The 2024 Opel Combo-e, in its 50 kWh configuration, is a super practical all-electric minivan, though sadly, it was never officially sold Stateside and production has now ceased. Think of it as Europe's answer to a compact, zero-emissions people-and-cargo hauler, perfect for families or businesses needing versatility. Its key draws are the available seven-seat layout and a focus on utility over outright frills. As it wasn't offered in the US, official pricing isn't available, but it aimed for affordability in its home markets. It's a straightforward EV choice for those prioritizing space.

What's New for 2024?

For its final 2024 model year run, the Combo-e received a nifty refresh! Most noticeably, it got the sharp 'Opel Vizor' front-end, giving it a more modern family look, aligning it with Opel's newer passenger cars. This update also brought new headlight designs. Inside, depending on the spec, you might find upgraded infotainment systems with larger screens, enhancing the tech appeal slightly before it bowed out of production. These were the key changes making the last batch of these vans a bit more polished.

Design & Exterior

The Opel Combo-e 50 kWh sports a classic, no-nonsense minivan silhouette – it’s all about maximizing interior space! The 2024 refresh gave it a sleeker 'Vizor' grille and updated headlights, adding a touch of modern flair to its boxy, utilitarian charm. Practical sliding rear doors make access a breeze, especially in tight spots. Dimension-wise, it measures up at 173.3 inches long, 75.6 inches wide (mirrors folded, we reckon!), and stands 72.5 inches tall, making it relatively compact and city-friendly for a van. It's built for function, but the update helps!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Combo-e 50 kWh, and you'll find a cabin built for durability and practicality, with seating for five or even seven! Materials are robust, ready for family or work. For gear, there's 20.2 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to 75.1 cubic feet with seats folded, and it can even tow up to 1653 lbs. No frunk, though. Tech-wise, later models boast improved infotainment, likely with a 10-inch touchscreen, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep everyone connected and entertained on the go.

Performance & Driving Experience

Under the hood (well, floor actually!), the Combo-e 50 kWh packs a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor driving the front wheels. It delivers 100 kW, that's about 134 horsepower, and a useful 192 lb-ft of torque right from a standstill. This translates to a 0-60 mph dash in around 11.3 seconds and a top speed of 84 mph – not lightning quick, but perfectly adequate for city scoots. Expect a smooth, quiet ride typical of EVs, with predictable handling. Regenerative braking helps claw back some energy.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Combo-e 50 kWh uses a 46.3 kWh usable battery pack. Green Cars Compare estimates a real-world range of around 145 miles, with an efficiency of about 3.13 mi/kWh – decent for a van of this type. For charging, its 7.4 kW standard AC on-board charger can top it up fully in roughly 6.5 hours at home. Out and about, it supports DC fast charging up to 100 kW, meaning a 10-80% boost could take around 30 minutes. For the US, it would use a CCS Type 1 port.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While specific NHTSA ratings aren't available as it wasn't sold in the US, the Combo-e achieved a respectable 4-star rating from Euro NCAP. For peace of mind, it typically came equipped with a suite of driver aids. Expect features like automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and cruise control to be part of the package, though some more advanced systems might have been optional extras depending on the exact European specification. It’s got the basics covered to keep you and your crew safe.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

If the Opel Combo-e 50 kWh had made it to the US, you'd likely be looking at a fairly standard EV warranty package. Think a basic vehicle warranty around 3 years/36,000 miles, with the crucial battery pack covered for 8 years/100,000 miles against major degradation. Powertrain components would probably fall under a similar 5-year/60,000-mile coverage. Complimentary maintenance isn't usually a big Stellantis offering in the US for its European-rooted brands, but EV maintenance is generally lower anyway, focusing on tires, brakes, and cabin filters.