Opel has been at the forefront of electrifying rallying with the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup “powered by GSe” and the Opel Corsa Rally Electric since 2021. The innovative mobile charging infrastructure for this electric rally cup is a testament to Opel’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency in motorsport. The new system, set to debut in the 2025 rally season, is designed to meet the high demands of rallying while minimizing environmental impact.
The sustainable charging concept features individual charging stations for each rally car, equipped with a 160-kilowatt-hour storage unit powered by a standard low-voltage power supply. This eliminates the need for a transformer connected to the public medium-voltage grid, reducing costs and effort. Opel ensures that 100% of the electricity used comes from renewable sources, aligning with the ethos of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup.
One of the key advantages of the new mobile charging infrastructure is its efficiency in recharging the Corsa Rally Electric’s 216 battery cells, enabling the cars to reach 80% capacity in less than 25 minutes. This quick turnaround time ensures that the rally cars are ready for the next stage promptly, allowing teams to continue service work on the vehicles during charging breaks.
The flexibility of the infrastructure is a game-changer for the rally circuit, as it can be easily transported to different venues across Europe. The compact design of the system allows it to fit on two articulated lorries, making it highly mobile and adaptable to various rally environments. Setting up and dismantling the infrastructure is a quick process, requiring just one day, thanks to its modular and user-friendly design.
Jörg Schrott, Head of Opel Motorsport, highlights the meticulous selection process involved in choosing the optimal charging infrastructure for the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup. The new system, operating at low voltage, eliminates the need for a dedicated transformer, streamlining setup and reducing overall costs. Despite the advancements in the charging system, the user experience for teams remains seamless, ensuring a consistent and fair playing field for all participants.
Opel’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in motorsport is evident in the development of this cutting-edge mobile charging infrastructure. As the automotive industry continues to embrace electrification, solutions like the one implemented in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup set a new standard for eco-conscious racing practices.
