Right now, there is a strong focus on affordable electric cars that offer plenty of space for under 200,000 DKK. This has become the standard for what consumers expect from a budget-friendly EV today. We are seeing more and more small electric cars arriving in Europe, with even more on the way from China. This makes it particularly interesting to take a closer look at a new small EV from American automaker Chevrolet.
Not the Spark We Remember
The name is Spark, which will likely bring back memories for many. Chevrolet previously sold a small city car with the same name in Europe about a decade ago. Back then, it was the brand’s attempt at offering an affordable car for the Danish market. However, the second generation of the model never made it to Europe, as General Motors withdrew Chevrolet from the continent following its bankruptcy in 2013. Instead, its sibling model, the Opel Karl, was sold in Europe.
The new model is called the Spark EV, but it is no longer a traditional small car. Instead, it’s a compact crossover. However, it is not an entirely new model but rather a rebadged version of the Chinese Baojun Yep Plus. This is not the first time Chinese models have been rebranded for other markets, but it is interesting to see Chevrolet adopting this strategy. The Spark EV measures just under 4 meters in length and 1.7 meters in width.
One of its most exciting features is its increased ground clearance, which sets it apart from many other cars in the same price range—though exact figures have not yet been revealed. The design has some resemblance to the rugged Suzuki Jimny, but unlike the Jimny, the Spark EV is exclusively available with rear-wheel drive.
We Hope for a European Debut!
The battery has a capacity of 41.9 kWh, providing a range of 401 km according to the Chinese CLTC measurement method. The electric motor delivers 102 hp, offering reasonable performance for city driving, though the Spark EV is certainly no sports car.
Inside, the Spark EV features a modern interior with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, similar to what is found in many newer electric vehicles. Safety equipment also looks promising, as the car is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including an automatic emergency braking system developed by drone manufacturer DJI. The car also features cameras placed around the vehicle to enhance safety.
Right now, the Chevrolet Spark EV is intended only for the Brazilian market, but there is hope for a European launch. Chevrolet has previously hinted at its desire to re-enter the European EV market, something we have already seen with Cadillac. In the past, Chevrolet sold the Volt in Europe, and today, they also offer the larger Equinox EV, which is built in the USA.
It would therefore make perfect sense for Chevrolet to bring the new Spark EV and other electric vehicles to the European market in the near future. For the Spark EV to succeed in Europe, its price would need to be well below 200,000 DKK—not to mention ensuring healthy profit margins.
