One of the most frequently cited barriers to widespread EV adoption in the U.S. is cost. While many all-electric vehicles are indeed quite expensive, that doesn’t mean they necessarily have to be – just look at the Chevy Spark EUV, an affordable urban runabout expected to start around $12,000 in markets where it will be sold. However, despite its budget-friendly pricing and compact design, the Chevy Spark EUV will not be sold in the U.S. – and here’s why.
For those who may have missed it, GM recently unveiled the Chevy Spark EUV in Mexico, South America, and the Middle East, while also confirming that it will be sold in China under its original name, the Baojun Yep Plus. The small electric crossover boasts rugged styling, an urban-friendly footprint, and a large infotainment touchscreen, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Even an outdoorsy Activ trim is available for those seeking a more rugged aesthetic.
Sounds tempting, no? Unfortunately, if you’re reading this in the U.S., you won’t have a shot at ownership. One reason the Chevy Spark EUV won’t be sold in the U.S. is simple: it was designed and will be built in China. Due to strict U.S. regulations and heavy tariffs on Chinese-built EVs, GM has no plans to bring the Spark EUV stateside. Recent policies, including a massive 100-percent tariff on Chinese-made EVs and new cybersecurity regulations for foreign-manufactured vehicle software, make importing Chinese-built EVs to North America all but impossible.
Even if tariffs weren’t an issue, the Spark EUV’s power and range limitations would make it a tough sell for American consumers. The small electric motor produces just 101 horsepower, a figure typically considered underwhelming in the power-hungry U.S. market. And while it’s good for urban commuting, the Spark EUV’s 224-mile estimated driving range is below the North American industry standard, where GM’s latest EVs offer at least 300 miles per charge and can even be used for road trips, if planned properly.
Last but not least, the Spark EUV likely wasn’t developed to meet strict North American crash test standards.
So, for those interested in this compact, budget-friendly EV crossover, don’t hold your breath – the Chevy Spark EUV will not be sold in the U.S. or Canada. Instead, American buyers will have to look forward to the upcoming 2026 Chevy Bolt EV, which will deliver a more competitive range and feature set for the North American market.
Comments
Car is a joke functionally… but it’s Trump’s fault? LOL
Good. It’s Chinese and looks nothing like a Chevy.
Continuing the out of touch, short-sighted focus that is a trademark of the Barra Regime. There are buyers out there for a boxy, small sport utility that brings back memories of the Suzuki Samurai and the current but unobtanium Suzuki Jimny. But then again, we are dealing with a company that still has no alternative to the popular Ford Maverick; discontinued without replacement Camaro, exploding V8’s, reduced exterior color choices on popular models and this corporate idea that still insists in an all-electric future; while denying the entry level electric buyer a vehicle like this.
FWIW, I’m not an all-electric only fan. Moreso because the electric charging infrastructure is not equal to our gas service stations. But the design and size of this vehicle would have me very interested; as it would former owners of the Samurai or Sidekick.
I agree that there are many buyers who want such a small and useful EV for city driving. That “300 mile range standard” is not tru9e. Most city dwellers never drive over 300 miles in a month. I know because I am one!
This I would buy as a second around town/grocery getter. No need for a gigantic $100k overweight EV Hummer.
Needs the 3.6L
It seams Americans have forgotten China is a communist country. How much do the people get paid an hour that make this vehicle. Do the workers in the plant have any rights? Union protection, an OSIA, retirement plan, Social Security, access to adequate health care…..the right to have as many children as they desire. That’s why it is 13 grand. It’s disgusting that we trade with this country.
These tariffs are designed to strangle the U.S. economy for a very nefarious reason.
I thought GM/Chevrolet were US? BUILD IT HERE. A slightly larger battery and improved chassis for crash protection and BOOM! We’d have our boxy, cheap runabout. GM is too short-sighted and stupid: They finally make something unique and WE can’t have it. I haven’t bought a GM product in decades and it seems I’ll just keep on waiting.