Electric cars are all about offering a green alternative to fossil fuel-powered models (though, this is debatable if you consider where electricity comes from), but Chevrolet's newly developed Spark EV that was introduced ahead of its world premiere at the LA Auto Show this month, doesn't lack in performance, at least not on paper. The 2014 Spark EV is driven by an oil-cooled, permanent magnet motor that according to GM's own words, "produces at least 100 kW", which is equal to 134hp or 136PS, and a massive instantaneous torque of around 400 lb.-ft. (542Nm!) with the coaxial drive unit.
Combined with the small footprint of the Spark, this results to a 0-60mph (96km/h) acceleration time less of than eight seconds, always according to GM.
“When our team set out to develop the propulsion system for Spark EV, we knew we had to provide surprising fun-to-drive acceleration with maximum efficiency,” said Spark EV Chief Engineer Chuck Russell.
“What we think customers will enjoy most is how fun Spark EV is to drive; it’s seamless and power is available at every stage of the drive,” Russell added. “This will help us to provide an exciting option for those customers who are looking for an EV that’s as much fun to drive as it is environmentally responsible.”
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