October 12, 2011

GM to Produce Chevrolet Spark All-Electric Vehicle

DETROIT – General Motors’ Chevrolet division announced it will produce an all-electric version of the Chevrolet Spark mini-car, the Spark EV. It will be sold in limited quantities in select U.S. and global markets starting in 2013, including California, according to GM.

“The Spark EV offers customers living in urban areas who have predictable driving patterns or short commutes an all-electric option,” said Jim Federico, global vehicle chief engineer for electric vehicles at Chevrolet. “It complements Chevrolet’s growing range of electrified vehicles, including the Volt extended-range EV and the 2013 Malibu Eco with eAssist technology.”

Feedback from participants in Chevrolet’s electric vehicle demonstration fleets in Shanghai (Sail EV), Korea (Cruze EV), and India (Beat EV) are being incorporated into the Spark EV, General Motors stated.

“Our global demo fleets continue to provide insight into the needs of electric vehicle customers living in urban environments,” said Federico. “The Spark EV is another step in Chevrolet’s plan to provide customers with a variety of electrification solutions to address the lifestyle and transportation needs of people around the world.”

A123 Systems will supply the advanced nanophosphate lithium-ion battery packs that will power the Spark EV. GM said details on specific markets, range, quantities, and pricing will be announced later.