Vauxhall’s EV line-up been boosted with the arrival of the electric Astra and Astra Sports Tourer. The arrival of the battery-powered duo takes Vauxhall’s all-electric portfolio to six cars as it looks to offer an EV-only range by 2028.

The arrival of the electric Astra is a major milestone for the brand

The arrival of the fully electric Astra, which touches down in the UK in 2023, means there are now four powertrain options in the range: electric, plug-in hybrid, petrol and diesel. Vauxhall is hoping that the spread of options will add to the appeal of the Astra as it battles against new entrants to the sector.

The electric powertrain will be common across the standard Astra and the Sports Tourer, which is the first fully electric estate model from Vauxhall. That means both models are powered by a 156hp electric motor, which works alongside a 54kWh battery pack. The result is 270Nm of torque, a theoretical driving range of 258 miles (WLTP) and a top speed of 105mph.

Like other electric models in the Vauxhall lineup, the electric Astra supports up to 100kW DC rapid charging, with an 80% charge taking just 30 minutes. Three driving modes are available – Eco, Normal and Sport – to suit different driving styles or requirements.

Space-wise, the Sports Tourer Electric’s luggage figures are identical to the PHEV version of the car. That means a total of 516 litres with the rear seats up and 1,553 litres when folded flat. This is possible thanks to the battery pack – which comprises 102 cells housed in 17 modules – being located in the underbody of the car.

“The Astra going electric is a big milestone for both our popular family car as well as for the Vauxhall brand as we move towards our commitment of only offering fully electric cars and vans from 2028,” said James Taylor, Vauxhall’s managing director. “Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric will offer everyday practicality, comfort and locally emission-free driving pleasure combined with the innovative technology and bold and pure design language that Vauxhall is known for.”

Specific UK pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the start of sales for both models. Order books for the standard Astra Electric will open in early 2023 with deliveries anticipated from June 2023. For the Sports Tourer the dates are shifted slightly, with orders beginning in the summer and deliveries commencing towards the end of the year.