Thursday, January 24, 2013

In the flesh: 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV
If you read Subcompact Culture on a regular basis, you know we've talked a decent amount about the Chevrolet Spark and have done a full review on it. One thing we haven't mentioned much is there is an upcoming all-electric version of it coming out.

The Spark EV will initially be sold in California, Oregon, Canada, South Korea, and a few other global markets. And yes, unlike the Honda Fit EV, your only option isn't a lease. You'll be able to buy this little thing.

Chevy is expecting the range to be the best in the entire EV segment, although no specifics have been given. They are saying that the Spark EV will cost under $25,000 after tax incentives, however.

On the outside, the car looks very similar to the gas-powered Spark. Changes include a blocked off top grille, revised mirrors, a revised spoiler, and different wheels.

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV dashboard

On the inside, the Spark EV gets unique fabric and two seven-inch LCD displays that display not only the Uconnect infotainment system on the center stack, but also key vehicle functions, such as speed and charging info for the gauge cluster.

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV motor

While at the 2013 Portland International Auto Show, Chevrolet said they were able to keep costs down on the vehicle since much of the electric system is similar to the Volt, so there wasn't as much R&D needed—it was already developed. Although the car will be assembled in South Korea, the motor and drive unit are built in the USA and will deliver 0-60 jaunts of around eight seconds, making it quite a bit faster than a gas Spark. In fact, the Spark EV will produce 130 horsepower and a massive 400 ft./lbs.  of torque.

The 560 lb. battery is located in the rear of the vehicle and is liquid cooled and warrantied for 100,000 miles. It will also offer first SAE Combo DC Fast Charge system, allowing and 80% charge in 20 minutes. A dedicated 240V charger will recharged the Spark EV in less than seven hours.

We hope to get our mitts on a Spark EV for review as it looks like a very promising small electric vehicle.

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