Vauxhall has launched its new electric Corsa GSE, marking the brand's first electric hot hatch. This model is also noted as the most powerful production Corsa ever and the fastest accelerating Vauxhall currently available.
The Corsa GSE is powered by a 281hp electric motor combined with a 51kWh (usable) battery pack, driving the front axle via a Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds when in Sport mode, which deploys the full 281hp and 254lb ft of torque.
Cosmetic alterations on the Corsa GSE include a deeper front splitter, bespoke front and rear bumpers, a black roof, a rear spoiler, and gloss black wheelarch extensions. It also features 18-inch alloy wheels that pay tribute to the classic Vauxhall Nova GTE.
The chassis of the Corsa GSE has been extensively tested at the Nurburgring, resulting in a specific setup. The suspension is lowered by 24mm at the front and 11mm at the rear, with stiffer springs, a widened track, and new shock absorbers. Braking is handled by Alcon-supplied four-piston calipers and 355mm discs on the front axle.
Inside, the Corsa GSE features high-backed sports seats with Alcantara and cloth upholstery, yellow seatbelts, and a flat-bottomed heated steering wheel with Alcantara trim. The 10-inch central touchscreen now includes performance data.
The Corsa GSE has an officially tested range of 220 miles with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 tyres can be specified at no extra cost, increasing the potential range by 12 miles. The vehicle supports DC rapid-charging speeds of up to 100kW, allowing the battery to be replenished in approximately 30 minutes.