Is Chevy Spark electric or gas?
The Chevy Spark has existed in two distinct forms: a gasoline-powered hatchback and a dedicated electric variant known as the Spark EV. In the United States today, Chevrolet does not sell the Spark as a new gasoline car, and the electric variant is no longer in production.
Two drivetrains, two histories
Here's how the Spark lineup unfolded across its lifetime, with the key differences between the gas-powered Spark and the Spark EV.
Note that details varied by market and year. The gasoline Spark was a conventional subcompact with a small-displacement engine, while the Spark EV used a purpose-built electric drivetrain with a battery pack.
- Gasoline Spark: launched for the 2013 model year as a small city car with a 1.0–1.2 liter engine; widely sold in the U.S. and other markets; production of the gas variant continued through the early 2020s and ended in the U.S. after the 2022 model year.
- Spark EV: a purpose-built electric variant introduced in limited markets around 2013–2016; EPA-rated range of about 82 miles; limited dealer availability and charging infrastructure; production ended earlier than the gasoline version.
Today, the Spark family used two different drivetrains during separate production windows, leading to two distinct ownership experiences and maintenance considerations.
Key differences between Spark gas and Spark EV
Below are the main contrasts shoppers and owners should know, focusing on powertrain, range, charging, emissions, and ownership costs.
- Powertrain and propulsion: The gas Spark uses an internal combustion engine (1.0–1.2 L) with a traditional transmission; the Spark EV uses an electric motor and battery pack, with no exhaust system or conventional engine noise.
- Range and refueling: Gas Spark depends on fuel economy and tank size; Spark EV delivers a fixed electric range (about 82 miles EPA) with charging times depending on the charging method and outlet.
- Emissions and energy source: Gas Spark emits tailpipe pollutants; Spark EV is zero tailpipe emissions but requires electricity from the grid, which may vary in cleanliness by location.
- Cost of ownership and maintenance: EVs typically have lower routine maintenance but may have higher upfront costs and battery-age considerations; gas Spark maintenance includes engine service, fuel, and potential transmission wear.
When shopping, consider battery health for the Spark EV and the condition of the gasoline engine and transmission for the gas Spark, as well as local charging availability for the EV version.
Current status in the U.S. and regional notes
In the United States, Chevrolet discontinued the Spark (gas) after the 2022 model year. The Spark EV, once offered in limited markets, is no longer in production. What remains today is primarily used-market examples, and those vehicles are aging and no longer backed by new-car warranties.
Note that outside the United States and in some markets, the Spark lineup has had different timelines and availability. If you’re shopping abroad, verify current local offerings with a Chevrolet dealer or regional GM site.
Regardless of region, the Spark name has not re-emerged as a major new-entry product for Chevrolet in the compact-hatchback segment in recent years.
Summary
The Chevy Spark has a split history: a gasoline-powered subcompact that was widely sold for nearly a decade, and a small electric variant offered briefly in limited markets. In the U.S., both variants are now retired from new-car sales, making the Spark a chapter in automotive history rather than a current lineup. When evaluating a Spark today, distinguish between gas vs. electric, and weigh age, battery health (for EV), and the availability of charging or service for any used vehicle.
Is the 2013 Chevy Spark electric?
But there's no plug and no problem with fueling the 2013 version of this Chevrolet, because it comes with a gasoline-sipping, internal combustion, four-cylinder engine. (An electric Spark is planned for 2014.)
What fuel does a Chevy Spark use?
Regular unleaded
Fuel & MPG
| Cost to Drive | $174/mo |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Regular unleaded |
| EPA city/highway MPG | 30/38 MPG |
What is the common problem with Chevrolet Spark?
Common Chevy Spark problems include transmission issues (slipping, delays, or noise), engine troubles (stalling, rough idling, or overheating), and electrical problems (like issues with the alarm, dashboard lights, or infotainment system). Other reported concerns involve AC system failures, particularly with the compressor, and steering issues, such as stiffness or noises.
This video explains common problems with the Chevy Spark: 59sNexologyYouTube · Sep 18, 2025
Transmission
- Slipping gears and delays: The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can sometimes slip or be slow to shift.
- Unusual noises: Some owners report noises like humming, especially at certain RPMs.
- Overheating: The transmission can overheat, particularly in hot weather or during long drives.
Engine
- Stalling: The engine may stall, particularly when slowing down or stopping, often due to a faulty idle air control (IAC) valve or a dirty throttle body.
- Rough idle and poor acceleration: Some owners report rough idling and a lack of power, especially at highway speeds.
- Overheating: The engine can also overheat, which may be related to cooling fan performance.
Electrical
- Faulty alarms: The car alarm may go off randomly while parked.
- Dashboard and infotainment issues: Problems with dashboard lights or the infotainment system can occur, often due to faulty wiring or fuses.
- Airbag problems: There have been recalls related to airbag performance and the car's compliance with safety regulations.
This video discusses the issues with Chevy Spark's engine and airbags: 59sNotYourAverageEVYouTube · Dec 27, 2023
Other common problems
- AC system: The AC may not blow cold, frequently due to a faulty compressor or refrigerant leaks.
- Steering: Stiffness or clicking noises can develop from the power steering system.
- Brakes: Issues with the brakes, such as the ABS warning light coming on, have been reported.
How long does it take to charge a 2016 Chevy Spark EV?
approximately 7 hours
Fully charge the battery at each charge event. Using a 240-volt charging station will take approximately 7 hours to charge your Spark EV.
