What's the news?
Chevrolet has revealed the all-electric version of its Spark supermini at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Building on Chevrolet's prominent EV sales in America, the supermini is set to capture even more than the 50 per cent market share Chevrolet already has for electric vehicles - according to its maker.
Exterior
The basic shape mimics that of the petrol-powered model; however, the designers have moulded a more aerodynamic shape, which Chevrolet says adds 2.5 miles to the car's range. One of these changes includes blocking off the car's radiator; although we're not so sure this has been done in the most elegant way possible. Five colours are available from launch; and alloy wheels are an option.
Interior
In place of the traditional dials, Chevrolet has fitted two seven-inch LCD screens to display the car's vital information; including a gauge displaying remaining range based on factors such as driving style and weather conditions.
Also included is Chevrolet's MyLink radio that works with a range of smartphones. Apps have also been made exclusively for the system; including full satellite navigation and global internet radio. The car also works with Apple's 'Siri', allowing voice command for those with the latest iPhones.
Mechanicals
A newly developed electric motor and battery system gives the Spark EV 130hp and a fairly incredible 542Nm of torque to play with. Being electric, all the torque is available immediately, and 0-62mph takes less than eight seconds. The 20kWh battery is said to provide the best range in the segment; although Chevrolet neglected to mention what that range actually is.
To aid charging, the Spark is fitted with an SAE Combo DC Fast Charger. This allows the battery to be charged by 80 per cent in just 20 minutes. After 200,000 hours of testing, Chevrolet says the battery is extremely reliable; and as such each one comes with an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.
Anything else?
The Chevrolet Spark EV is set to go on sale next summer. Prices in the US will start at under $25,000 (about £16,000), and plans for sale in Europe have yet to be released.
James Giddings - 28 Nov 2012
