The powertrain of the Chevrolet Spark EV began Job One today at GM Baltimore Operations facility in White Marsh, Maryland. The permanent magnet motor features a unique design for precise power delivery, and will produce 130 hp (100 kW) and 400 lb-ft of torque (that’s more than a Ferrari 458 Italia) to deliver acceleration of less than 8 seconds from 0 to 60 mph.
Initially, the Spark EV will be sold in California and Oregon this summer with sales eventually expanding to Canada, Europe and South Korea.
The Baltimore facility also produces A1000 transmissions for heavy duty pickup trucks along with the electric motors and drivetrains for the Chevrolet Spark EV. It has been landfill free since 2007, recycling 100% of all waste. They had a 1.2 MW roof mounted solar array installed in May 2011 and received certification for their Wildlife Habitat in June 2011. A new facility has been built on the campus to house manufacturing for production of the electric motor, which is work brought up from Mexico.
Comments
Glad to hear! Hope to see more and more EVs built in USA in the next few years.
Do you think we’ll see GM roll out something like the motors in the VIA conversions? THAT’S power, gotta have a big battery but whoa dude 400 hp (but less torque than the Spark motor?).
Will this eventually be available in all the US and has anyone heard anything about the range?
“work brought up from Mexico” is the best news!
I still prefer the dual-quad , blown 454 I built based on a 1970 z/28.
A big gas engine is old technology, like using a mechanical calculator! An electric motor can outrun a gas engine on a drag strip, and make less noise and no pollution. This electric Spark will be a big, fun surprise for small car drivers.
David, I think we are all curious to hear what the range is, hopefully Leaf beating… If GM brings it with the Range could be a great buy…
How can I get one in Virginia?