The 2016 Chevrolet Spark EV gets 119 MPGe combined, making it an efficiency champion. MPGe, or “miles per gallon equivalent,” is the EPA’s metric for measuring electric vehicle efficiency, like MPG for gasoline cars. This isn’t a long-range highway cruiser, it’s a city car designed for short commutes and errands. Knowing this vehicle’s purpose helps you appreciate its impressive fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Spark EV earns its high rating with great city and highway numbers. The EPA estimates 128 MPGe in the city and 109 MPGe on the highway. This difference shows how electric motors work. They are most efficient in stop-and-go conditions where regenerative braking can recapture energy, extending the range and improving the MPGe. Highway driving, which needs sustained power output, reduces the recovery from the regenerative braking system. This makes the Spark EV well-suited for cities where its handling and regenerative braking system are most useful. The 109 MPGe highway rating is still excellent, but the Spark EV is best for city driving.

Annual fuel cost

The estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Spark EV is a low $650. This is based on the EPA’s estimate of 15,000 miles driven per year, with a specific percentage split between city and highway driving, and the national average cost of electricity at the time of calculation. Electricity rates vary, which could change the actual cost for an owner, but the $650 figure is a good example. It shows one of the main economic benefits of owning an electric vehicle.

Unlike gasoline prices, which can change a lot, electricity prices are usually more stable. You can see all Chevrolet fuel economy data here.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers give a solid starting point, but real-world MPGe depends on several things. Fast acceleration and hard braking reduce efficiency, so does using the climate control a lot. Hills also drain the battery faster than flat areas. Cold weather can change range. But with good driving habits and some planning, most Spark EV owners can get numbers close to the EPA estimates, or even a little higher. People who live and work in cities and often use regenerative brakes will probably see the best EV “fuel economy” results.

How it compares

The 2016 Spark EV has a higher MPGe than other electric-only cars from the same year. The 2016 Nissan LEAF, is rated at 114 MPGe combined. The BMW i3 is rated at 124 MPGe combined, but costs much more than the Spark EV. A direct competitor like the Fiat 500e is rated at 112 MPGe combined.

These comparisons show the fuel economy advantages of the Spark EV in the subcompact electric vehicle group. For buyers who want the best efficiency and a lower price, the Spark EV is a good choice, especially when looking at SPARK MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use regenerative braking. The Spark EV has a “Low” drive mode that increases regenerative braking when you lift off the accelerator. Learn this mode to get as much energy back as possible, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Watch traffic to avoid hard braking.

Heat or cool the cabin while the car is plugged in. Heating or cooling the interior before driving uses electricity from the grid instead of the battery. This helps in very hot or cold temperatures, which can really affect range. Set the charging timers to charge during off-peak hours, which can mean cheaper electricity.

Watch your driving habits. The Spark EV’s display shows real-time energy use. Watch for driving patterns that use more battery and change your driving. Even small changes, like driving 5-10 mph slower on the highway, can improve your real-world MPGe average. Driving aggressively can quickly drain the battery.

Keep your tires inflated. Low tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces efficiency. Check your tire pressure often and keep the recommended inflation pressure for the best performance and range. Tire pressure drops in cold weather.

Reduce extra weight. Carrying extra cargo, even a few hundred pounds, can affect the Spark EV’s efficiency. Remove anything from the car that you don’t need. Every pound saved contributes to greater range.