Vauxhall confirms 2013 city car

Vauxhall will start building a Ford Ka rivalling city car from 2013 after today confirming a €90m factory investment.

It will make the new sub-Corsa model in Eastern Germany.

The launch model will use a conventional high-economy petrol or diesel engine range. Vauxhall has, however, said a zero-emission battery-electric version could follow.

Currently, the production plant builds the three-door Corsa. This volume will be moved to the sister Corsa plant in Spain, suggesting the firm has strong sales aims for the new city car.

“This new product will be an important element in our growth strategy,” said Vauxhall Opel CEO Nick Reilly. It is not the only model on the cards, either.

“Along with other new vehicles, such as the upcoming electric Ampera, a sporty coupe and a small SUV, we will significantly expand our product line-up in the future and offer customer choices in several more segments.”

Vauxhall has in the past shown the Trixx concept city pictured here at motor shows; the new model is expected to use styling elements from this vehicle, as the brand seeks a younger, more ‘lifestyle’ buyer than the current Agila.