Chevrolet Spark Lineup to Include Electric Version

An electric version of the Chevrolet Spark will be available in select U.S. cities and global markets starting in 2013. Chevrolet made the announcement during the unveiling of the mini, five-door, four-passenger hatchback in Detroit. More details on the Spark, including the all-electric version, will be released at next month's Los Angeles Auto Show. So far, only California has been named as a rollout market.

“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.”

The Chevrolet Spark is 14 inches shorter than the recently launched Chevrolet Sonic. It’s three feet longer than the Smart Fortwo and four inches longer than the Fiat 500. In the United States and Canada, the Spark will be powered by a 1.2L four-cylinder engine that delivers 83 horsepower. The standard transmission is a five-speed manual. An automatic transmission will be available.