Is a Chevy Spark an Electric Car Find Out Here

The Chevy Spark is *not* a fully electric car, but it was available as the Spark EV in select markets from 2013 to 2016—a compact, battery-powered version offering 82 miles of range. While the standard Spark uses a gasoline engine, the EV model proves Chevrolet once embraced urban electric mobility before shifting focus to newer EVs like the Bolt.

Key Takeaways

• Not fully electric: The Chevy Spark is a gas-powered car, not an EV.
• No EV model: Chevrolet discontinued the Spark EV in 2016; no electric version exists today.
• Affordable alternative: Consider the Bolt EV for Chevy’s budget-friendly electric option.
• Check labels: Always verify model details—Spark and Spark EV are different.
• Future outlook: Chevy focuses on new EVs; Spark may not return as electric.
• Efficiency matters: Spark offers good MPG, but EVs beat it in long-term savings.

The Chevy Spark: A Closer Look at Its Powertrain Options

When it comes to compact, affordable, and fuel-efficient vehicles, the Chevrolet Spark has long been a popular choice for urban drivers and first-time car buyers. With its small footprint, nimble handling, and budget-friendly price tag, the Spark has carved out a niche in the subcompact car segment. However, as the automotive industry rapidly shifts toward electrification, many drivers are asking: Is a Chevy Spark an electric car? This question is more relevant than ever, especially as automakers like Chevrolet roll out new electric models such as the Bolt EV and the upcoming Equinox EV.

The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. While the Chevy Spark has been associated with efficiency and innovation, its powertrain history reveals a mix of traditional and forward-thinking technologies. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various generations of the Spark, dissect its engine and electric options, compare it to true electric vehicles (EVs), and help you understand whether the Spark qualifies as an electric car—or if it’s something else entirely. Whether you’re a city dweller looking for a low-cost commuter or an eco-conscious driver considering your first EV, this article will give you the clarity you need.

Understanding the Chevy Spark: Generations and Powertrain Evolution

To determine whether the Chevy Spark is an electric car, we must first understand its history and how its powertrain has evolved over the years. The Spark has gone through several generations since its North American debut in 2013, and each iteration has brought changes in engine technology, efficiency, and even hybrid or electric considerations.

First and Second Generations (2013–2015): The Gas-Only Era

The first generation of the Chevy Spark, introduced in 2013 for the U.S. market, was exclusively powered by a 1.2L 4-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produced around 84 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT (continuously variable transmission), both designed to maximize fuel economy.

During this period, the Spark was marketed as a fuel-efficient city car, not an electric vehicle. It achieved EPA-estimated ratings of up to 30 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, which were impressive for its class. However, it relied entirely on internal combustion and had no electric-only mode. There was no hybrid or battery-electric variant offered during these early years.

Tip: If you’re considering a used Spark from 2013–2015, expect a purely gasoline-powered experience. While efficient, it is not an electric car by any definition.

Third Generation (2016–2022): A Shift Toward Efficiency and Technology

The third-generation Spark (introduced in 2016) brought significant updates, including a redesigned exterior, improved interior materials, and enhanced tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Under the hood, the engine remained the same 1.4L 4-cylinder (a slight displacement increase from the earlier 1.2L), producing 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque.

Despite the improvements, the Spark still used a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) with no hybrid or plug-in electric option. However, Chevrolet began to position the Spark as a smart, connected, and efficient urban vehicle, aligning it with the growing trend toward sustainable mobility—even if it wasn’t fully electric.

Notably, during this time, Chevrolet was developing the Bolt EV, its first mass-market electric car. This led to some confusion among consumers, as the Spark and Bolt EV were sometimes grouped together in discussions about Chevrolet’s electrified future—even though the Spark itself remained gas-powered.

Discontinuation and the End of an Era (2022)

Chevrolet announced the discontinuation of the Spark in North America after the 2022 model year. The decision was influenced by several factors:

• Shifting consumer demand toward SUVs and crossovers
• Chevrolet’s strategic pivot toward electric vehicles (EVs)
• Increasing regulatory pressure for lower emissions
• Competition from more advanced subcompact EVs and hybrids

The final Spark models were still powered by the 1.4L gasoline engine, with no electric variant ever produced for the U.S. market. While other global markets (such as China) saw limited electric versions of the Spark, these were not imported or sold in North America.

Did Chevrolet Ever Make an Electric Spark?

This is a critical question: Did Chevrolet ever produce a fully electric version of the Spark? The answer requires a nuanced understanding of regional markets and experimental models.

Global Electric Spark: The SAIC-GM-Wuling Collaboration

While the U.S. never received an electric Spark, Chevrolet’s parent company, General Motors, did produce an all-electric version of the Spark in China through its joint venture with SAIC Motor and Wuling (SAIC-GM-Wuling). This vehicle, known as the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV (and sometimes marketed under the Baojun brand), was inspired by the Spark’s compact design but was not a direct rebadge.

The Baojun E100 and E200 models—often referred to as “Chinese Spark EVs”—featured:

<
• Electric motors producing 39–41 horsepower

<

• Lithium-ion battery packs (9.3–26.5 kWh)
• Range of 100–125 miles (EPA equivalent)

<

• Top speed of 62–75 mph

These vehicles were extremely popular in China due to their low cost (often under $5,000 USD), small size, and suitability for city driving. However, they were not sold under the Chevrolet nameplate in the U.S. and were built on different platforms with different safety and emissions standards.

Important: If you’re researching an “electric Chevy Spark,” be cautious. Most listings or articles referencing an EV version are discussing Chinese-market models that were never officially imported or sold by Chevrolet in North America.

GM’s Electrification Strategy: Why No U.S. Spark EV?

General Motors’ electrification roadmap has focused on larger, more profitable vehicles and dedicated EV platforms. The Ultium platform, introduced in 2020, supports the Cadillac Lyriq, GMC Hummer EV, and upcoming Chevrolet Equinox EV and Silverado EV. These vehicles offer long ranges (250–400+ miles), fast charging, and advanced tech—features that a small city car like the Spark wouldn’t support without a complete redesign.

Additionally, GM chose to discontinue the Spark and replace it in its lineup with the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV, which are true electric vehicles. The Bolt EV, for example, offers:

• 259-mile EPA-estimated range
• 200 horsepower electric motor
• DC fast charging capability
• Regenerative braking and one-pedal driving

This strategic shift makes it clear that GM saw the Bolt EV, not a Spark EV, as the natural successor to the Spark’s urban commuter role—but with full electrification.

Comparing the Chevy Spark to True Electric Vehicles

To further clarify whether the Spark is an electric car, let’s compare it directly to a real EV: the Chevrolet Bolt EV. This side-by-side analysis highlights the fundamental differences between a gasoline-powered subcompact and a purpose-built electric vehicle.

Powertrain and Drivetrain

The Chevy Spark relies on a 1.4L 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a traditional transmission. It burns fuel, produces emissions, and requires regular oil changes, tune-ups, and exhaust system maintenance.

In contrast, the Bolt EV uses a single electric motor powered by a 65 kWh lithium-ion battery. It has:

• Zero tailpipe emissions
• No transmission (direct drive)
• Instant torque delivery (266 lb-ft at 0 rpm)
• Regenerative braking to recharge the battery

This fundamental difference means the Spark cannot be classified as an electric car, even if it’s efficient.

Charging vs. Refueling

The Spark refuels at gas stations, taking about 12–15 minutes to fill a 9.2-gallon tank. It requires no special infrastructure at home.

The Bolt EV, however, must be charged. Options include:

• Level 1 (120V): ~5 miles of range per hour
• Level 2 (240V): ~25 miles of range per hour
• DC Fast Charging (100 kW): 100 miles in ~30 minutes

Tip: If you live in an apartment or lack access to home charging, owning an EV like the Bolt EV requires planning. The Spark, by contrast, is much more flexible in this regard.

Environmental Impact and Efficiency

While the Spark is fuel-efficient (30–39 mpg), it still emits CO₂ and other pollutants. The Bolt EV produces zero emissions during operation. Even when accounting for electricity generation, EVs typically have a lower lifetime carbon footprint than gasoline cars.

According to the EPA, the Bolt EV has a “Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas Rating” of 10/10, while the Spark scores 7/10. This reflects the Spark’s efficiency but also its fossil fuel dependency.

Cost of Ownership

Here’s a breakdown of long-term costs:

Cost Factor	Chevy Spark (Gas)	Chevy Bolt EV (Electric)
Initial Purchase Price (Used, 2022)	$8,000–$12,000	$15,000–$20,000
Fuel/Electricity Cost (Annual, 12,000 miles)	$1,000–$1,300	$600–$800
Maintenance (Oil, Filters, etc.)	$400–$600/year	$200–$300/year
Federal Tax Credit (New)	$0	Up to $7,500 (if eligible)
Home Charging Installation	$0	$500–$1,500 (Level 2 charger)

While the Spark has a lower upfront cost, the Bolt EV offers lower operating and maintenance costs over time, especially with incentives.

Common Misconceptions About the Chevy Spark and Electrification

Despite the facts, several myths persist about the Chevy Spark and its electric capabilities. Let’s address the most common misconceptions to set the record straight.

Myth #1: “The Spark Is a Hybrid or Plug-In”

Some consumers mistakenly believe the Spark has a hybrid or plug-in hybrid version because of its small size and efficiency. However, no hybrid or plug-in hybrid Spark was ever sold in North America. The Spark was always a gasoline-only vehicle.

Unlike the Toyota Prius or Honda Insight, which combine gas engines with electric motors, the Spark has no electric drive component. It cannot run on battery power alone, even for short distances.

Myth #2: “It’s the Same as the Bolt EV”

While both are small, affordable Chevrolets, the Spark and Bolt EV are fundamentally different:

• The Spark is a gasoline-powered ICE vehicle
• The Bolt EV is a battery-electric vehicle (BEV)
• They share no mechanical components
• They were built on different platforms

Calling the Spark an electric car because it’s from the same brand as the Bolt is like calling a diesel truck an electric car because Ford makes the F-150 Lightning.

Myth #3: “You Can Convert a Spark to Electric”

While it’s technically possible to convert a gasoline car to electric (known as a “conversion EV”), this is:

• Expensive ($10,000–$20,000+)
• Time-consuming (weeks to months)
• Not street-legal in all states without certification
• Often less reliable than factory-built EVs

Tip: If you want an electric car, it’s better to buy a factory-built EV like the Bolt EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, or Nissan Leaf. Conversions are best left to enthusiasts and specialists.

Myth #4: “The Spark Was Discontinued Because It Was Outdated”

While the Spark was discontinued, it wasn’t due to obsolescence alone. It was a strategic decision by GM to phase out small ICE cars and focus on EVs. The Spark served its purpose as an affordable city car, but the future is electric—and GM wants to lead that charge.

Should You Buy a Chevy Spark Today? Alternatives to Consider

If you’re in the market for a small, efficient car, the Chevy Spark may still be appealing—especially as a used vehicle. But is it the right choice in 2024 and beyond? Let’s evaluate.

Pros of Buying a Used Chevy Spark

• Low purchase price: Used Sparks can be found for under $10,000
• Excellent fuel economy: Saves money at the pump
• Compact size: Ideal for city parking and tight spaces
• Low insurance costs: Small cars are cheaper to insure

Cons and Considerations

• Not electric: No emissions-free driving
• Limited safety features: No standard advanced driver aids (e.g., AEB, lane keep)
• Short range: Only 300–350 miles per tank
• Discontinued model: Fewer parts and service support over time

Electric Alternatives to the Spark

If you want the Spark’s size and affordability but with electric power, consider these options:

• Chevrolet Bolt EV: 259-mile range, starting under $27,000 (new), or $15,000+ (used)
• Nissan Leaf: 149–212 miles, affordable used models
• Hyundai Kona Electric: 258-mile range, more premium interior
• Mini Cooper SE: 110-mile range, fun driving dynamics

Tip: Look for federal and state EV incentives—many offer $2,000–$7,500 in tax credits or rebates for used EVs, making them competitive with gas cars.

Conclusion: Is a Chevy Spark an Electric Car? The Final Answer

After a thorough exploration of the Chevy Spark’s history, powertrain, and place in the market, the answer is clear: No, the Chevy Spark is not an electric car. It has always been a gasoline-powered internal combustion vehicle, with no hybrid, plug-in, or battery-electric version ever sold in North America.

While the Spark was innovative for its time—offering great fuel economy, modern tech, and an affordable price—it does not meet the definition of an electric vehicle. True EVs, like the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan Leaf, or Tesla Model 3, run entirely on electricity, produce zero emissions, and require charging instead of refueling.

That said, the Spark’s legacy lives on. Its role as an affordable city car has been passed to the Bolt EV and other emerging EVs. For drivers who want the Spark’s compact size, low cost, and urban-friendly design—but with the benefits of electrification—there are now excellent electric alternatives available.

If you’re asking “Is a Chevy Spark an electric car?” because you care about sustainability, cost savings, and the future of mobility, the answer should guide your next purchase: Look beyond the Spark. Embrace the electric era. With falling prices, expanding charging networks, and growing incentives, now is the perfect time to make the switch to a true electric vehicle. The road ahead is electric—and it’s waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Chevy Spark an electric car?

The Chevy Spark is not a fully electric car. While Chevrolet previously offered the Spark EV in select markets (2013-2016), the current-generation Spark is only available with a gasoline-powered 1.4L 4-cylinder engine.

What was the Chevy Spark EV?

The Spark EV was Chevrolet’s short-lived electric version of the Spark, produced from 2013-2016. It featured a 19 kWh battery pack and 140-mile range, but was discontinued due to low demand and Chevrolet’s shift toward newer EVs like the Bolt.

Does the current Chevy Spark have an electric motor?

No, the current Chevy Spark (2016-present) uses a traditional 1.4L gasoline engine producing 98 horsepower. It lacks any hybrid or electric powertrain components found in modern EVs.

Is the Chevy Spark a hybrid or electric car?

The Spark is neither a hybrid nor an electric car. It’s a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle with no electric-only driving mode or regenerative braking features common in EVs.

Why was the Chevy Spark EV discontinued?

Chevrolet discontinued the Spark EV after 2016 due to limited sales and the introduction of the longer-range Chevrolet Bolt EV. The Bolt’s superior 238-mile range made the Spark EV obsolete in GM’s electric car lineup.

Can you convert a Chevy Spark to an electric car?

While technically possible through aftermarket EV conversion kits, converting a gasoline Spark to electric is expensive and complex. For most buyers, purchasing a purpose-built electric car would be more cost-effective and reliable.