Comments on: Chevrolet Spark EV Details Released

By: Van

Van — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 05:14:00 +0000

Assuming 80% of 20 KWh, that is 16 Kwh available for range. A fast DC charger (48kw) would recharge the 16 in 20 minutes. So assuming 16 Kwh, and getting 3.5 miles per kwh, the maximum range would be 56 miles. Thus with the AC or heater working the real world range is about 50 miles. Anyone can claim higher numbers. like the Leaf claimed 100 but the EPA said 75, and some folks in Phoenix are getting less than 50.

To repeat this very simple truth, an EV needs at least 40 kwh to be a viable vehicle. This 20 plus kwh vehicle has too short an actual range.

But the 40 kwh Tesla costs $50,000. So we need the next generation battery to make EV's viable. For now, its hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.

By: Volume Van

Volume Van — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 04:42:27 +0000

http://www.technologyreview.com/news/507566/general-motors-raises-its-ante-on-electric-cars/

Seems its battery weights 560 lbs, for a small car like Spark this should give a range of atleast 120 miles since Leaf’s 600 lb battery powers it for 100 miles.

Pricing is very important, if its anywhere closer to 30 K, then for sure, people will go for much bigger C-Max Plugin which has 20 mile range without range anxiety. Mitsubishi’s MIEV is not selling well at 30 K.

But we can appreciate that GM has chosen the smallest 4 seater vehicle for EV. This should be good for many families since they have only 1 or 2 children.

By: scolas

scolas — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 03:22:12 +0000

Where did you see that the range is only 50 miles? I didn't see any reference to range other than "EV range among the best in the segment." In the video at 1:48 it shows a gauge showing 50 miles left, but it was not fully charged. The trip meter showed 12 miles so if accurate would suggest a range of only 62 likes, which is still way too low for anything other than a city car in my opinion. The 20 minute quick charge looks good.

Of course it doesn't look like a car I'd want to be in for too long a time anyway.

By: Shines

Shines — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 18:59:44 +0000

Maybe 50 miles is OK for in city and daily commutes. I’d hate to take a trip longer than 100 miles having to make stops every 50 miles to recharge. The Spark doesn’t look like it would be much fun on the freeway.

By: Van

Van — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:10:52 +0000

A 50 mile range is only about 1/3 of what is needed to make an EV viable.