The Chevrolet Spark EV is based on the conventional petrol-powered supermini, and uses a GM-designed permanent magnet motor said to offer high efficiency, reliability and precise power delivery. It allows the car to reach 60mph in under eight seconds from a standing start.

Sales begin in California and Oregon this summer, before being extended to cover Canada, South Korea and selected European markets later in the year. Chevrolet is claiming best-in-class range, and a battery which, unusually, can be fast charged every day in 20 minutes without causing damage. Around 75% of its drivetrain components are shared with other GM vehicles.

‘The motor design was created by American engineers and it’s being manufactured and assembled by American workers,’ said plant manager Bill Tiger.

‘By designing electric motors in Michigan and manufacturing them at Baltimore Operations, GM controls the design, materials and production processes, as well as reducing costs and improving performance, quality, reliability and manufacturability.’