Chevrolet Spark EV set for European debut at Geneva Motor Show

February 14, 2013: The Chevrolet Spark EV, an all-electric small hatchback, will be showcased at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

Reputedly powered by the most advanced electric motor and battery system General Motors has ever built, the Spark EV is claimed to set the performance benchmark for electric city cars.

The Spark EV’s electric motor produces a useful 128bhp and a substantial 542 Nm of torque. This allows the Chevrolet to go from 0-100kph in 8.5 seconds. Power is sourced from a lithium-ion battery system that features active liquid cooling and heating to optimise its capacity and life.

GM says the sophisticated technology of its battery pack will enable the Spark EV to achieve an electric range that is among the best in its class. The battery pack has been engineered to enable both regular alternate current (AC) and direct current (DC) fast charging which allows the car to be charged to 80 percent in 20 minutes.

Susan Docherty, president and managing director of Chevrolet andCadillac Europe, said: "Just like the Volt, this nimble battery-powered vehicle is a proof point for Chevrolet’s ingenuity in delivering smart mobility solutions."

Inside the Spark features a pair of seven-inch full colour LCD screens, one which functions as the instrument cluster and the other as the interface for the Spark’s media systems and climate control.

Chevrolet's Spark EV will also feature GM's MyLink system, allowing drivers to connect smartphones to the car for music playback, internet connectivity and navigation. A rearview camera is also fitted as standard.

The Spark EV is predicted to cost less than $32,500 (Rs 17.5 lakh) in the US before incentives. It will also be sold in selected European countries that have a growing EV market.