Is the Chevy Spark an Electric Car Find Out Here

The Chevy Spark is *not* a fully electric car, but it does offer a discontinued all-electric version (2014–2016) for eco-conscious drivers. While the current models run on gasoline, the Spark EV remains a rare budget-friendly EV option in the used market. Discover if its limited range and quirky charm fit your needs!

Key Takeaways

• Chevy Spark is not fully electric: It offers a gas-powered engine only.
• No EV version available: GM discontinued the Spark EV in 2016.
• Affordable urban car: Ideal for city driving with great fuel economy.
• Small but efficient: 1.4L engine delivers 38 MPG highway.
• Tech features included: Touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto standard.
• Consider Bolt EV instead: Chevy’s current electric option for eco-conscious buyers.

Is the Chevy Spark an Electric Car? Find Out Here

The automotive world is buzzing with excitement over electric vehicles (EVs), and for good reason. With rising fuel costs, environmental concerns, and rapid advancements in battery technology, more drivers are considering a switch to electric. Among the sea of compact cars and EVs, one model that often sparks curiosity—pun intended—is the Chevy Spark. This pint-sized hatchback has been a popular choice for urban drivers and budget-conscious buyers for years. But is the Chevy Spark an electric car? If you’ve found yourself asking this question, you’re not alone.

When you think of Chevrolet’s electric offerings, the Chevy Bolt EV and Bolt EUV likely come to mind. But the Spark? That’s a different story. The Chevy Spark has a long history as a gasoline-powered subcompact, but its name and compact size often lead to confusion. Is it an EV? Was it ever offered with an electric powertrain? And if not, why does it seem so similar in spirit to electric city cars? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the truth about the Chevy Spark—its history, powertrain options, performance, and how it compares to true electric vehicles. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer, an eco-conscious commuter, or just curious about Chevrolet’s lineup, this article will give you the facts you need to make an informed decision.

Understanding the Chevy Spark: A Brief History

Origins and Evolution of the Spark

The Chevy Spark first debuted in the U.S. market in 2013 as a 2014 model, replacing the aging Aveo. It was designed as a budget-friendly subcompact hatchback, targeting city dwellers, college students, and anyone looking for a low-cost, fuel-efficient vehicle. Built on the GM Gamma II platform, the Spark was originally sourced from GM’s Daewoo division in South Korea, later shifting production to Mexico to reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency.

Over the years, the Spark evolved with updated styling, improved tech features, and better safety ratings. The second generation (2016–2019) introduced a more modern interior, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a slightly more powerful engine. The third generation (2020–2022) brought sharper exterior lines, enhanced infotainment, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like forward collision alert and lane departure warning—rare features in this price segment.

Why the Confusion About Electric Versions?

Despite being a gas-powered car, the Spark has often been mistaken for an EV for several reasons:

• Compact Size: Its small footprint (just 144 inches long) makes it ideal for city driving—similar to EVs designed for urban environments.
• Efficiency Focus: With EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, it appeals to drivers seeking low running costs.
• Name Association: The word “Spark” evokes electricity, leading many to assume it’s electric.
• Market Positioning: Chevrolet has heavily promoted EVs like the Bolt, and the Spark’s discontinuation in 2022 coincided with the Bolt’s expansion, creating a narrative gap.

However, despite these similarities, the Spark has never been offered as a fully electric vehicle in North America. But that doesn’t mean Chevrolet didn’t explore electric variants elsewhere—more on that later.

Chevy Spark Powertrain: Gasoline Only (With a Twist)

The Standard Gasoline Engine

From 2014 to 2022, every Chevy Spark sold in the U.S. and Canada came equipped with a 1.4L I4 Ecotec gasoline engine producing 98 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), depending on the model year and trim.

While modest in power, the engine was tuned for efficiency and low-end torque—perfect for stop-and-go city driving. For example, in urban traffic, the Spark could accelerate from 0 to 30 mph in just over 5 seconds, making it surprisingly nimble at low speeds. However, highway merging and passing required careful planning due to the engine’s limited output.

Fuel economy was a standout feature. According to the EPA, the 2022 Chevy Spark achieved:

• 30 mpg city
• 38 mpg highway
• 33 mpg combined

For a car priced under $15,000 (in its final years), this made the Spark one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid, non-electric vehicles on the market.

No Electric Version in North America—But What About Elsewhere?

Here’s where things get interesting. While the U.S. and Canadian markets never received an electric Spark, Chevrolet did produce an all-electric version for select global markets, most notably in South Korea and China.

The Chevy Spark EV was launched in 2013 in South Korea and later in select U.S. states (California, Oregon, and Maryland) as a limited lease-only model from 2014 to 2016. This version featured:

• A 105-hp electric motor
• 19.4 kWh lithium-ion battery
• EPA-estimated range of 82 miles
• DC fast charging capability (80% in 20 minutes)

Why was it so limited? The Spark EV was a compliance car—designed to help GM meet California’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) regulations. It was never intended for mass-market adoption in the U.S. Sales were capped, and after 2016, it was quietly discontinued. As of 2024, there are no plans to revive the Spark EV in North America.

Tip: If you’re interested in a used Spark EV, check listings in California or Oregon. These models are rare but can be found on platforms like CarGurus or EV-specific forums. However, battery degradation after 7–8 years may affect range, so always get a pre-purchase battery health inspection.

Chevy Spark vs. True Electric Vehicles: Key Differences

Performance and Driving Experience

The gasoline-powered Chevy Spark offers a fun, light, and agile driving experience, especially in tight city environments. Its small turning radius (just 33.5 feet) makes parking and U-turns a breeze. However, it lacks the instant torque and smooth acceleration of electric vehicles.

In contrast, the Chevy Bolt EV (a true electric car) delivers 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque—more than double the Spark’s output. This results in a 0–60 mph time of around 6.5 seconds, compared to the Spark’s 10+ seconds. The Bolt also features regenerative braking, one-pedal driving, and a quieter cabin due to the absence of engine noise.

Example: Imagine driving through downtown Chicago during rush hour. The Spark handles stoplights and narrow streets well, but the Bolt’s instant torque lets you dart into gaps in traffic with confidence, while its regenerative braking reduces wear on the pads and improves energy efficiency.

Charging vs. Refueling

This is the most significant difference. The gasoline Spark requires:

• Frequent trips to gas stations
• Exposure to fluctuating fuel prices
• Oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other ICE maintenance

An EV like the Bolt or Spark EV (when available) offers:

• Overnight home charging (Level 1 or Level 2)
• Lower “fuel” costs (electricity is cheaper per mile than gasoline)
• Fewer moving parts = less maintenance
• Access to public charging networks (e.g., ChargePoint, Electrify America)

Tip: Use the U.S. Department of Energy’s eGallon tool to compare fueling costs. For example, driving 15,000 miles annually, the Spark costs about $1,200/year in gas, while the Bolt costs around $600/year in electricity (varies by state).

Environmental Impact

Even though the Spark is fuel-efficient, it still emits CO2 and other pollutants. Over its lifetime, a gasoline Spark produces approximately 40–50 tons of CO2 emissions (including manufacturing and driving).

An EV like the Bolt, even when charged on a grid with fossil fuels, produces about 20–30 tons of CO2 over the same period. In regions with clean energy (e.g., Washington state, California), that number drops to 10–15 tons. As grids get greener, EVs become even cleaner.

Why Chevrolet Discontinued the Spark (And What’s Next)

The End of the Line for the Spark

In April 2022, Chevrolet announced the discontinuation of the Spark after the 2022 model year. The reasons were multifaceted:

• Declining Subcompact Sales: U.S. consumers shifted toward SUVs and trucks. Subcompacts like the Spark, Fiat 500, and Toyota Yaris saw sales drop by over 60% from 2015 to 2022.
• Focus on Electrification: GM committed to launching 30+ EVs globally by 2025, including the Bolt EUV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV. The Spark no longer fit the brand’s future vision.
• Platform Limitations: The Spark’s Gamma II platform wasn’t designed for EV integration. Updating it would have been costly.

Interestingly, the Spark’s production line in Mexico was repurposed for EV components, signaling GM’s shift toward electrification.

Chevrolet’s Electric Future: The Bolt and Beyond

With the Spark gone, Chevrolet’s entry-level EV is now the 2024 Chevy Bolt EV (starting at $26,500 after federal tax credits). Key improvements over the old Spark EV include:

• 259-mile range (vs. 82 miles)
• Faster DC charging (100 miles in 30 minutes)
• Modern infotainment with 10.2-inch touchscreen
• Advanced safety features (Super Cruise available on higher trims)

Looking ahead, Chevrolet plans to launch the Equinox EV (starting at $30,000) and Silverado EV (work truck and retail versions), further expanding its EV portfolio. While the Spark won’t return, its spirit of affordability and urban practicality lives on in these new models.

Should You Buy a Used Chevy Spark or Go Electric?

Pros and Cons of the Gasoline Spark

Pros:

• Low upfront cost (used models: $8,000–$12,000)
• Excellent fuel economy
• Easy to park and maneuver
• Low insurance rates (due to small size and value)

Cons:

• Noisy engine at highway speeds
• Limited cargo space (11.4 cu ft)
• Basic interior materials
• No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on pre-2016 models
• Not future-proof (rising gas prices, emissions regulations)

When to Consider a True EV Instead

You should strongly consider an electric car if:

• You drive mostly in cities or within 150 miles daily
• You have access to home or workplace charging
• You want to save money on fuel and maintenance
• You care about reducing your carbon footprint
• You qualify for federal or state EV tax credits (up to $7,500)

For example, a 2020–2022 Bolt EV (used, ~$20,000) offers more space, better tech, and lower running costs than a used Spark—even though it costs more upfront. Over 5 years, the Bolt could save you $3,000–$5,000 in fuel and maintenance.

Data Table: Chevy Spark vs. Chevy Bolt EV (2022 Models)

Feature	Chevy Spark (Gas)	Chevy Bolt EV (Electric)
Powertrain	1.4L I4 Gasoline	Electric Motor (200 hp)
Transmission	5-Speed Manual or CVT	Single-Speed Reduction Gear
Range	330 miles (tank)	259 miles (battery)
Fuel/Energy Cost (15k mi/year)	~$1,200 (gas)	~$600 (electricity)
0–60 mph	10.5 seconds	6.5 seconds
CO2 Emissions (annual)	4.6 tons	1.8 tons (U.S. grid average)
Maintenance Cost (5-year avg.)	$4,200	$2,800
Starting MSRP (2022)	$14,595	$31,500
Tax Credit Eligible	No	Yes (up to $7,500)

Final Verdict: Is the Chevy Spark an Electric Car?

To answer the question directly: No, the Chevy Spark is not an electric car—at least not in the way most people think. The standard Spark sold in North America from 2014 to 2022 was a gasoline-powered subcompact designed for affordability and city driving. While Chevrolet did produce a limited-run Spark EV for select markets, it was never a mainstream offering and is no longer available.

That said, the Spark’s legacy is more nuanced. It was a gateway to Chevrolet’s electric future. Its compact size, urban focus, and low cost mirrored the values that EVs now champion—efficiency, simplicity, and accessibility. By discontinuing the Spark, Chevrolet made a clear statement: the future is electric, and the Bolt, Equinox EV, and other models are the new entry points for eco-conscious drivers.

If you’re deciding between a used Spark and a true EV, consider your driving habits, budget, and long-term goals. For short commutes and tight parking spots, a used Spark can still be a smart, low-cost choice. But if you’re ready to embrace the future—lower emissions, lower running costs, and a smoother driving experience—there’s no better time to go electric. The Chevy Spark may be gone, but its spirit lives on in Chevrolet’s growing fleet of EVs.

So, is the Chevy Spark an electric car? Not anymore. But in spirit? It was always sparking the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Chevy Spark an electric car?

The Chevy Spark is **not** a fully electric car. It was offered as a gasoline-powered subcompact until 2022, but GM has since shifted focus to EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and upcoming Equinox EV.

Does the Chevy Spark have an electric version?

No, Chevrolet never produced an official electric variant of the Spark. While some third parties have converted Sparks to EVs, it was only sold with a 1.4L gasoline engine during its production run.

What kind of fuel does the Chevy Spark use?

The Chevy Spark runs exclusively on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). Its 1.4L 4-cylinder engine delivers 98 horsepower, averaging 30-38 MPG combined, depending on the model year.

Why do people think the Chevy Spark is an electric car?

Confusion often arises because the Spark was discontinued just as Chevrolet launched its “EVs for Everyone” campaign. The car’s compact size and eco-friendly branding also led to assumptions about electrification.

Is the Chevy Spark being replaced by an EV?

Chevrolet hasn’t confirmed a direct Spark EV replacement, but the automaker plans to expand its EV lineup with affordable models like the Equinox EV ($30K starting price) by 2025.

Can I convert my Chevy Spark to an electric car?

Yes, some specialty shops offer EV conversion kits for the Spark, but costs ($10K-$20K) and technical complexity make it rare. Factory EVs like the Bolt remain a more practical choice.