Chevy Shows off an Electric Spark
Building on the successful launch of its first modern-day mini-car, Chevrolet is now preparing to introduce an all-electric version that can dash from 0-60 in less than 8 seconds and recharge (to 80 percent capacity) in about 20 minutes. The 2014 Chevy Spark EV will make its public debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show, but the brand recently showed it off to the media at the GM Electrification Experience in San Francisco. The Spark EV is expected to “provide an EV range [that’s] among the best in the business,” according to General Motors.
But in the mind’s of customers of Chevrolet WI, there’s a lot more to the little car than just its efficiency.
“What we think customers will enjoy most is how fun the Spark EV is to drive,” said Chuck Russell, chief engineer for the car. “It’s seamless and power is available at every stage of the drive. This will help us to provide an exciting option for those customers who are looking for an EV that’s as much fun to drive as it is environmentally responsible.”
The key difference-maker here? An advanced powertrain that blends an oil-cooled permanent-magnet motor—capable of 130 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of instant torque—with a +20kWh lithium-ion battery pack that has undergone more than 200,000 hours of testing and carries eight-year/100,000-mile warranty protection from General Motors. And note: Both the Spark EV’s motor and drive unit will be built here in the United States, making the vehicle the first of its kind in which these components have been made in America.
According to Chevrolet Illinois, the 2014 Chevy Spark EV is scheduled to launch next summer in California markets, with further details likely to be revealed during the car’s introduction in Los Angeles.
“The Spark EV … demonstrate[s] Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering the advanced technologies that today’s consumers will be eager to adopt and truly value,” added Chris Perry, vice president of Global Marketing for Chevy.
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