Chevrolet’s release of their 2014 Spark EV should catch the attention of those living in the city. This all-electric model has a number of advantages going for it such as small size, ease of maneuvering and parking, energy savings, emissions control, quick get-up-and-go, smartphone-linked navigation and affordable price. Besides these great benefits, the Chevy Spark EV is simply fun to drive.
Spark EV Specs
Chevrolet has successfully met one major requirement of electric car wannabe owners… power. Past electric cars have lacked fast acceleration and around town zip, but the Spark meets that criteria with its powerful 105 kW (140 hp) engine that provides gripping torque of 400 pounds per foot.
When you’re ready to roll, the Spark will shoot from 0-60 in approximately eight seconds and its low center of gravity adds to its quick and controllable handling. The Spark EV is only 147 inches long which makes it a great little car for fitting into small parking spaces and maneuvering through tight city streets and touch-and-go traffic.
Mileage
The number one concern with electric cars is how far can you go and what will it save in energy cost. The Spark EV rises to the occasion to meet both of these needs effectively.
The official word from many Chevrolet dealerships is that the Spark will provide owners with 82 miles of travel on one full charge of its 21 kWh lithium ion battery located underneath the back seat. Reports from those who have tested the car reveal that they actually get around 65 miles when it is driven hard and upwards of 95 miles when giving care on accelerating and decelerating. This makes it ideal for those commuting around the city, but lacks range for long trips.
Cost of Operation
Various components of Chevy’s Spark EV have been upgraded and redesigned in order to make it more energy efficient. Smooth air flow is obtained by its upper grill which is sealed and opens automatically when the electric motor requires air. It also has rocker panels, tire deflectors and underbody panels running the full length of the car. The Spark also comes with heavier suspension and heavier, low rolling resistance tires that better handle its power as well as increase mileage by 5-7 percent.
The Spark will travel 100 miles at an electricity cost of between $3 and $4. This equates to a gas engine getting roughly 100 mpg highway or 119 mpg city. If you drove an average of 35 miles a day (half of the battery’s full capacity), you would spend roughly $360 a year in energy costs. This is compared to just over $1238 a year in gas expense for the Spark gasoline model.
Affordable Price
As far as electric cars go, the Chevy Spark EV is quite affordable to own as well as for driving around. You can buy the Spark for just under $20,000 after the federal tax credit of $7,500 for fuel efficient cars. You can also lease the Spark EV for $200 when you sign up for a three-year lease.
GM offers a subsidized price of $500 on a 220V Bosch charging station, although electrician fees are extra. If you opt for the charging station, strongly consider getting the rapid charger feature which will provide you with a full charge in just seven hours. Normal charging from empty to complete capacity takes a full day.
Although this car may not be the best choice for people living in the country, for urban areas it’s hard to beat the Chevy Spark EV’s combination of low cost, fuel savings, and power.
About Author
Addison Appleby is an IT specialist working in Tucson, Arizona. When she’s not working, she loves writing articles about alternative energy, technology, and electric cars.
