Holden Barina Spark electric debuts

An all-electric Holden Spark - nee Barina Spark - has made its US debut as a production-ready car with plans for sale in North America and across the pond in emission-conscious Europe.

But Australia may not miss out. The Spark EV could become Holden's second electric car - after the Volt that debuts here next year - within three years.

Holden spokesperson Kate Lonsdale says "we haven't dismissed the Spark EV".

"We'll see how it performs in other markets before making a decision. Our focus is on Volt at the moment. We will continue to watch it (Spark EV) before making a decision."

In a statement, Chevrolet says the Spark EV "will be sold in limited quantities in select US and global markets starting in 2013".

Chevrolet's global vehicle chief engineer for electric vehicles, Jim Federico, says the car "offers customers living in urban areas who have predictable driving patterns or short commutes an all-electric option"

"It complements Chevrolet's growing range of electrified vehicles, including the Volt extended-range EV and the 2013 Malibu Eco with eAssist technology."

The Spark EV will use feedback from trial electric vehicles such as the Sail EV in China, the Beat EV in India and Cruze EV in Korea.

"Our global demo fleets continue to provide insight into the needs of electric vehicle customers living in urban environments," says Federico.

"The Spark EV is another step in Chevrolet's plan to provide customers with a variety of electrification solutions to address the lifestyle and transportation needs of people around the world."

The Spark EV will use a nanophosphate lithium-ion battery pack powering an electric motor with a peak power output of  85kW. However, for durability the motor is rated at a sustainable 75kW.

Batteries are from A123 Systems in the US that also supplies similar units for the Fisker Karma electric saloon.

The Spark EV is expected to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 18.