Michigan Chevrolet Dealers Spark Interest in the All-New, All-Electric Chevrolet Minicar Coming Soon

Oct. 14, 2011 - PRLog -- DETROIT, M.I. – Michigan Chevrolet dealers already have the plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt to fill the needs of better mileage for customers looking for a more efficient vehicle. But, it seems the Volt will not be the only Chevrolet choice come 2013 as General Motors has announced the Chevy Spark Electric Vehicle (EV) is coming to the U.S.
There will be two versions of the Spark that will come to the market starting in 2012. The first is the gasoline-powered model, which will be available early 2012 in most markets. The second is the completely electric Spark EV, which will only be available in select markets in 2013.
If most consumers in a particular area travel farther distances, the EV version may not be the most convenient due to the limited range of an all-electric vehicle.
“The Spark EV offers customers living in urban areas who have predictable driving patterns or short commutes an all-electric option,” said Jim Federico, global vehicle chief engineer for electric vehicles at Chevrolet in a CNN press release.
The Spark has been dubbed a minicar with its short stance. It is a couple inches shorter than the Mini Cooper but has enough room to seat five passengers. The engine will be a 1.2L four-cylinder engine that powers 83-horsepower with either a five-speed manual transmission or, at this point, an unspecified automatic transmission. Also, the U.S. will only see the four-door hatchback.
Some features Michigan Chevrolet dealers may look forward to offering their customers include:
•   4.3-inch color touch-screen
•   Bluetooth connectivity
•   Heated leatherette seats
•   USB connection for iPods and MP3
•   Satellite navigation system
Michigan Chevrolet dealers do not, as of yet, have any details about the range of the EV, MPG of the gas-powered version, prices for either vehicle or which markets will be targeted.
As the release comes closer, MI Auto Times will keep readers updated. Check back.
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[Source(s): Automotive News, Inside Line, Kicking Tires]