VAUXHALL LAUNCHES ITS FIRST PLUG-IN HYBRID

Vauxhall has confirmed details of its latest model, the plug-in hybrid Grandland X Hybrid4.

The Grandland X Hybrid4 is Vauxhall’s first- ever plugin hybrid and, says the brand, marks the latest step in its journey towards electrification.

The P HE V version of the mid-sized crossover features a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and two electric motors which offer a total system output of 296bhp. The Hybrid4 comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive as standard.

Official figures put economy at 128mpg, with CO2 emissions of 49g/km and the 13.2kwh battery is capable of providing up to 30 miles of pure electric run

ning.

The Grandland X Hybrid4 comes with a 3.3kw on-board charger, with an optional 6.6kw version also available. Vauxhall will also offer devices for fast charging at public stations, as well as wallboxes at home. With a 7.4kw wallbox, customers can fully charge the battery in less than two hours.

As standard the Grandland X Hybrid4 features the new Vauxhall Connect telematics service which includes live navigation with real-time traffic information, as well as the ability to check key vehicle data via an app. It also comes with a trip planner, which suggests the best routes based on the car’s remaining range and highlights the location of charging stations along the way.

Pricing is still to be announced but the Grandland X Hybrid4 goes on sale this year and will be joined in Vauxhall’s electrified line -up later this year by the fully battery electric version of the next-generation Corsa. This will be followed by the new Vivaro Life MPV, new Vivaro LCV and the successor to the Mokka X – all of which will feature a fully electric version.