Chevrolet Killed the Spark EV and No One Noticed

The manufacturer will shift its focus to the new Bolt EV.

byCaleb Jacobs|
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As a new model is ushered in, the Spark EV makes its exit. According to The Detroit News, GM actually ceased manufacturing of the small electric car last summer, ending the model's three year run. The tiny auto did its part by paving the way for the new Bolt EV which is set to be a big success for the company. Thanks to this decision, Chevrolet should be able to keep up with Bolt production to give the Tesla Model 3 a real run for its money.

While it may have been necessary for the brand, Chevrolet's Spark EV wasn't a sales success. It sold only 7,400 models during its lifetime which only started to come to fruition as EVs became "cool". The incremental amount of units moved surely lead GM to this decision, though it wasn't all for nothing. “We’re excited to build on the great experience of our electrification program, including Spark EV, to introduce the first affordable, long range electric vehicle, the Bolt EV,”  said one Chevrolet spokesperson to The Detroit News.

The Spark EV's quirkiness did, however, make it likable. It didn't provide the most luxury or slot-car handling, but it did feature 400 lb. ft. of torque from the electric motor. This was a laughable figure that caught the attention of many journalists and professionals in the industry, bringing the little car to light. Since the introduction of the Spark model range, it's served a niche market that was charming, though not for everyone.

When comparing the Bolt EV to the Spark EV, it's clear to see why Chevrolet decided to move in this direction. The Spark EV provided owners with around 82 miles of driving range between charges, a modest number for the era; however, the Bolt EV takes that number and multiplies it. Chevrolet's newest all-electric auto will be capable of 238 miles on a single charge, giving it great value at the $36,620 price point.

Chevrolet continues on their path to producing one of the most surprising cars to come out of Detroit in awhile. Whereas we once expected all of the hype to come out of the California based Tesla, Chevrolet has stolen some of their thunder by releasing the Bolt EV prior to the Model 3's summer debut. They owe a big "thanks" to the Spark EV that made it all possible.

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