The nice thing about the Spark EV’s range estimate is that it actually shows you two other range estimates as well: a maximum (optimistic) figure, as well as a more critical minimum figure, which numerically yells at you: “D’oh! You better not have to go further than this!”

As on all plug-in electric cars, temperate weather (near 20 degrees Celsius) definitely helps range, as does avoiding highways and major uphill routes. The four-seat Spark EV had notably more real-world range than our three-and-a-half year old five-seat Nissan Leaf, which has lost about 15 per cent of its peak battery capacity, and therefore driving range, at just over 41,000 km. But the Leaf is notably larger, wider, more comfortable and with more refined materials inside, with range-saving features such as a heated steering wheel that help cut back on the juice-stealing heating system.

In the U.S., the Spark EV’s starting price was cut in April of this year to US$25,995, which at today’s (early September 2015’s) sinking Canadian dollar translates to just over C$34,000, suddenly making the ’15 Spark EV’s C$31,455 base price look very reasonable. But what’s even more enticing is whether GM Canada will also offer it at lease prices close to the $0 down US$139 per month rate offered at various times in California.

Judging from the experience with similar US$199 deals for the Chevrolet Volt over the past three years, that would be a no. Especially since the Spark EV will likely only be available as a placeholder until the all-electric 2017 Chevrolet Bolt is released, which promises a real 320 km worth of range for about US$30,000 after incentives, and is slated to go on sale by the end of 2016.

Warranty:
3 years/60,000 km; 5 years/160,000 km powertrain; 6 years/160,000 km corrosion perforation; 5 years/160,000 km roadside assistance; 8 years/160,000 km battery

Competitors:
BMW i3
Ford Focus EV
Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Nissan Leaf

In the end, the Spark EV’s pricing will be a major factor in this car’s appeal, or lack of appeal to some. But will buyers appreciate the Spark EV’s charms enough to hold off until the Bolt arrives, or will they be swayed by the Leaf’s increased space and refinement (and rumoured increase in range for this fall). That, really, is the $12,275 question.

Pricing: 2015 Chevrolet Spark EV
Base price (EV): (est.) $31,445
Options: $800 (Option 1 ­ $800: Fast-Charging SAE Combo system)
Freight: $1,600
A/C tax: $0
Price as tested: $33,945

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