Chevy Spark's life into electric car at Geneva

• Electric version of Spark mini car to be sold in select European markets
• Electric motor produces 130 hp and 542 Nm of torque
• State-of-the art battery enables fast charging in 20 minutes
• Two reconfigurable LCD screens provide enhanced connectivity

Following the global reveal of the Spark Electric Vehicle in Los Angeles last year, Chevrolet's all-new battery-powered mini car will be presented to a European audience for the first time at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The car will be sold in select European markets as of 2014.

The Chevrolet Spark EV is anticipated to set a benchmark in performance for an urban city electric car and is powered by the most advanced electric motor and battery system General Motors has ever built.

"The Spark EV is a fun-to-drive zero-emission city car with intelligent connectivity. We believe it will resonate particularly in some of Europe's most technologically advanced markets," says Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe. "Just like Volt, this nimble battery-powered vehicle is a proof point for Chevrolet’s ingenuity in delivering smart mobility solutions."

Advanced propulsion system key to speedy take-off, competitive range

Its sports-car-like acceleration and smooth, yet instantaneous, torque of 542 Nm make the Spark EV a small car with enjoyable driving dynamics. The heart of the Spark EV's propulsion system is its GM-designed permanent magnet electric motor. It delivers more than 130 hp (100 kW) and will enable 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 8.5 seconds.

The Spark EV will be equipped with a lithium-ion battery system of more than 20 kWh that operates with the help of an active liquid cooling and heating system. Thanks to the sophisticated technology of its battery pack, the Spark EV is expected to achieve an electric range that is among the best in its class.The battery pack has been engineered to enable both regular alternate current (AC) and direct current (DC) fast charging.

DC fast charging will allow the car to recharge up to 80 percent of its capacity in approximately 20 minutes. Moreover, the battery system is capable of handling multiple DC fast charges daily. AC recharging requires between 6 and 8 hours, using a 230V outlet. A charge cord set is standard.

Cutting-edge connectivity makes driving easier and more fun

The Spark EV was designed to look edgy and expressive.Among the most prominent aspects of its stylish interior is a column-mounted instrument cluster that features one of two large seven-inch full-color LCD screens. The other display is located in the center stack and serves as the interface for infotainment, cabin climate controls and energy-efficiency data.

The Spark EV will come with the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio technology as standard, which allows users to connect compatible smartphones to the radio with its high resolution touch screen. Chevrolet MyLink will support a number of select apps which will allow users to navigate using their smartphone, and listen to radio stations around the world through the internet. A rear-view camera will provide assistance when the car is in reverse.

In addition, MyLink users who own a compatible iPhone* (as of 4S) running iOS6 will be able to utilise Siri, an advanced assist system, to perform a number of tasks while they safely keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

* Siri requires Internet access. Siri may not be available in all languages or in all areas, and features may vary by area. Cellular data charges may apply.