Chevrolet’s new electric supermini, the Spark EV is to make its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month.
Already available in the US from this summer, the new fully-electric car will launch in selected European markets from next year.
It will be the first time the production-ready model has been seen in Europe and will give electric car fans the chance to size the Spark EV against the growing range of competition in the electric supermini sector, including the Nissan LEAF and Renault ZOE.
What we already know about the electric version of Chevrolet’s Spark hatchback is that it will be fitted with 20-kWh lithium ion battery and a 130 hp electric motor, producing 542 Nm of torque and will have a 0-62mph time of around 8.5 seconds.
Chevrolet also promises a best in class driving range, although doesn’t say exactly what it will be, but expect at least 120 miles per charge.
The car will be compatible with both regular alternate current (AC) and direct current (DC) fast charging. DC fast charging will allow the car to recharge up to 80 per cent of its capacity in approximately 20 minutes while AC recharging requires between 6 and 8 hours, using a 230V outlet.
"The Spark EV is a fun-to-drive zero-emission city car with intelligent connectivity. We believe it will resonate particularly in some of Europe's most technologically advanced markets," says Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. "Just like Volt, this nimble battery-powered vehicle is a proof point for Chevrolet’s ingenuity in delivering smart mobility solutions."
The Spark EV with Chevrolet’s MyLink connected radio technology as standard, which allows users to connect compatible smartphones to the radio with its high resolution touch screen. Chevrolet MyLink will support a number of select apps which will allow users to navigate using their smartphone, and listen to radio stations around the world through the internet. A rear-view camera will provide assistance when the car is in reverse.
The model will be at the Geneva Motor Show from the 7-17 March 2013, when we expect to find out more about its driving range and exact market availability.
Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.
Faye Sunderland
February 13, 2013
Filed under: Chevrolet
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