Another Los Angeles International Auto Show debutant is the electric version of the Holden Barina Spark (Chevrolet Spark in North America).
GM says the Chevrolet Spark’s electric motor will deliver 99kW/542Nm. Incredibly that is considerably more than Holden Barina Spark’s current 59kW/107Nm 1.2-litre petrol engine – in fact the torque of the electric version is five times that of the petrol-powered model.
However all the electric-power goodies add more than 200kgs to the weight of the Chevrolet Spark.
Battery range is around 100kms – 120kms making the Chevrolet Spark electric comparable to say Nissan’s Leaf. GM says the Spark will be capable of both regular home charging and a DC fast-charge.
Externally, the Chevrolet Spark gains the same sort of aerodynamic aids we’re accustomed to with electric vehicles – active grille shutters, smoother front and rear ends, underbody panel and a rear spoiler.
And the suspension needed a complete overhaul for the extra weight and also the battery pack storage area. This is most noticeable at the rear (where the battery pack is housed) with the Chevrolet Spark adopting a new rear axle and torsion beam. Front suspension springs and dampers have been beefed-up.
No word yet from Holden on any Australian plans, but the Chevrolet Spark EV will be rolling down the same GM assembly line in South Korea which produces Barina Spark for our market.
