The Opel Rocks Electric represents Opel’s forward-thinking approach to urban mobility and electrification within the Stellantis group. This light electric quadricycle is the German brand’s interpretation of the Citroën Ami platform, designed to comply with European L6e regulations, which categorize it as a light four-wheeled vehicle. The focus is clear: make electric mobility affordable, compact, and accessible to a new generation of drivers and urban commuters. It has been refreshed with visual tweaks and marketing updates in 2024 to better fit Opel's modern design DNA.
Compact Dimensions Built for Dense Cities
Key dimensions:
- Length: 2.41 meters
- Width: 1.39 meters (excluding mirrors)
- Height: 1.52 meters
- Weight: 471 kg (including 5.5 kWh battery)
The compact body allows for effortless navigation through narrow European streets and densely packed parking areas. With a turning circle of just 7.20 meters, the Opel Rocks Electric excels in tight maneuvers and short U-turns, making it ideal for last-mile mobility and inner-city errands.
Despite its small footprint, interior space has been optimized by placing the two seats in a staggered configuration. This design not only saves room but also offers better legroom and elbow space for the occupants compared to traditional side-by-side seating.
Electric Performance Tailored for Urban Efficiency
- Motor: 6 kW (peak power)
- Top Speed: 45 km/h (28 mph)
- Drive: Front-wheel drive
- Regulatory Category: L6e – suitable for 15-year-olds in several EU countries
The vehicle’s electric motor provides instant torque and smooth acceleration up to 45 km/h. This speed is legally capped under the L6e classification, aligning with local laws for light quadricycles.
Its electric drivetrain ensures quiet operation, essential in noise-sensitive urban zones. Acceleration is steady, with the vehicle reaching top speed in around 10 seconds, sufficient for navigating city streets and roundabouts.
Reliable Battery, Simple Charging
- Battery: 5.5 kWh lithium-ion
- Range: Up to 75 km (47 miles)
- Charging Time: ~4 hours from a standard 220V socket
- Charging Method: Built-in 3-meter cable with optional Type 2 adapter
The battery capacity fits the daily needs of commuters who travel short distances multiple times a day. The Rocks Electric supports AC home charging only, which keeps manufacturing and ownership costs down. It plugs into any standard wall socket, eliminating the need for specialized infrastructure. Charging from 0–100% takes roughly 4 hours, and Opel provides an optional Type 2 adapter for use with public charging stations.
Real-world range varies depending on terrain, weather, and driving style, but even under heavy usage, the vehicle comfortably completes short commutes, grocery runs, or school pick-ups.
Design: Symmetry with Purpose
The Rocks Electric borrows heavily from the Citroën Ami in structure, but Opel has introduced a sharper “Vizor” front-end design, seen across the current Opel portfolio. The symmetrical exterior body panels—front and rear being interchangeable—keep manufacturing costs low. The driver’s side features a rear-hinged door, while the passenger door is front-hinged, a choice rooted in production efficiency.
Additional features include:
- LED lighting units
- Black plastic wheel arches
- High-contrast color decals (optional)
- Basic alloy-style wheel covers
The color palette and decal options are designed to appeal to a younger, style-conscious demographic. For added personalization, Opel offers limited-edition variants with contrasting roof and side panel accents.
Minimalist Interior, Maximum Use of Space
Inside the cabin, functionality takes precedence. Key highlights:
- Two staggered seats
- Smartphone holder with USB port
- Heater and fan
- Simple dashboard with driving indicator lights
- Large side windows for visibility
- Roof and rear fixed windows
The spartan dashboard layout includes toggle switches for lights, indicators, and fan controls. Instead of an infotainment system, the car integrates a universal smartphone holder. Drivers are expected to use their mobile devices for navigation and media, a cost-saving feature aligned with the minimalist theme.
Storage space is available in front of the passenger footwell and behind the seats. The Rocks Electric offers 63 liters of usable cargo volume—adequate for shopping bags or a backpack.
Accessibility: Designed for Early Drivers and Daily Commuters
One of the defining features of the Rocks Electric is driver eligibility. In many EU countries:
- 15-year-olds can legally drive it with an AM license
- No full car driver’s license is needed
- Insurance and tax requirements are lower than for full-sized EVs
The legal framework and pricing make it appealing to:
- Teenagers and first-time drivers
- Urban workers needing affordable mobility
- Elderly users who want simple transport
- Fleet operators for last-mile logistics or food delivery
This accessibility opens a new demographic niche—young urban users who would otherwise rely on scooters or public transport.
Pricing Strategy and Market Position
- Starting Price: ~€7,990 (≈ $8,500 USD)
- Low running costs
- Minimal maintenance due to fewer moving parts
Opel positions the Rocks Electric as an ultra-affordable entry into electric mobility. In markets like Germany, this price is significantly lower than most used electric cars. Factoring in low insurance premiums, zero fuel costs, and reduced taxes, the total cost of ownership is extremely competitive.
Many cities now subsidize electric vehicles through cash incentives, scrappage schemes, or registration discounts, making the final price potentially even lower for eligible buyers.
Market Comparison: How It Stacks Up
Here’s how the Opel Rocks Electric compares with others in its class:
| Feature | Opel Rocks Electric | Citroën Ami | Renault Twizy 45 | Microlino Lite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 6 kW | 6 kW | 4 kW | 6 kW |
| Battery Capacity | 5.5 kWh | 5.5 kWh | 6.1 kWh | 6–14 kWh |
| Range (est.) | 75 km | 75 km | 100 km | 95–230 km |
| Top Speed | 45 km/h | 45 km/h | 45 km/h | 45 km/h |
| Charging Time | 4 hours | 4 hours | 3.5 hours | 4–6 hours |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Starting Price (USD) | ~$8,500 | ~$8,500 | ~$10,300 | ~$14,000 |
The Opel Rocks Electric matches the Citroen Ami in specs but benefits from Opel’s branding and wider dealer network in some regions. The Twizy 45 offers slightly more range but lacks the enclosed, symmetrical design. The Microlino Lite is more premium, with retro styling and larger range, but comes at a higher price.
