Subcompact cars are some of the most popular vehicles on our roads. However, they aren't known for their exciting features or praised for how they drive.

It's common for a tiny compact to be a lifeless shell that's really only used to get you from one place to another; hardly inspiring, especially as there is a lot of buzz surrounding the automotive industry at the moment, thanks to the new direction it's going in.

Chevrolet tried to mix things up in the subcompact world when it introduced the Chevy Spark EV in 2013. This little car was one of the first all-electric compacts on our roads, and despite only being around for a short while, it left a legacy.

While electric cars are the future of the automotive industry, we're taking a look in the rearview mirror at the recent past. Let's look back at the Spark EV and why its ability to manage congested roads is its best feature.

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Managing Traffic Is The Best Feature Of The Chevy Spark EV

Chevy Spark EV Front
Via GM

Driving in traffic is usually an absolute chore that drivers dread, but that is where the Chevy Spark EV shines. The Spark EV is a super light car that really showcases its abilities when the traffic builds up. Because the Spark EV is so light and nimble, it tackles traffic like you're driving a go-kart.

The responsive 18.4 kWh battery doesn't take up much space or weigh the Spark down, so when you hit the gas pedal, it launches away. It's not just its responsiveness that aids the Spark EV in traffic, however. That compact size means you can find the tiniest of gaps in the traffic that others in larger vehicles can only dream about making.

Due to its unassuming looks, the Chevy Spark EV is almost a sleeper car. For a subcompact, a 0-60 mph time of just 7.2 seconds is something to behold.

Too many compacts offer little in the way of excitement when you're behind the wheel, but the same can't be said for the Spark. This little car injects some much-needed fun into the daily commute, and that's not a bad thing at all!

What Is The Chevy Spark EV?

The Chevy Spark EV is a compact vehicle that runs on an electric motor. It was the first all-electric car General Motors manufactured since the EV1, which was discontinued in 1999. This new venture for General Motors was an exciting one at the time, and the Spark EV left its mark on the world.

One of the big questions drivers ask when it comes to any electric car is how long it takes to charge. As the Spark EV has a relatively small battery, drivers can recharge 80% of their Spark EV in just 20 minutes, helping them to get back on the road in no time.

The 2014 version of the Spark EV featured an impressive 130 hp engine and 400 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the electric motor, this often boring car was given a much-needed shot in the arm.

The Spark EV doesn't just boast an impressive charging time; it also has a decent range, especially considering it's a pretty old EV. On a full charge, the Spark EV has an estimated range of 82 miles, which is competitive even today.

RELATED: Here's How Far A Chevy Spark EV Can Go On A Single Charge

The Chevy Spark EV Didn't Last Long

Blue Chevy Spark EV
Via GM

It seems as though the Chevrolet Spark EV was just the beginning for the Detroit-based manufacturer. The Spark EV was ultimately a compliance car for Chevrolet to ensure it met certain government requirements for alternative fuel vehicles.

There never was a plan for the Chevy Spark EV to continue forever, which explains why it was only produced from 2013 to 2016. A limited number were produced, and it wasn't too easy to get your hands on one when they were new.

Perhaps Chevrolet moved on from the Spark EV because it was by no means the perfect car. At higher speeds, the car begins to feel unstable, while using the onboard appliances significantly reduced the Spark EV's driving range. Despite its small flaws, the Chevy Spark EV remains a fun drive and good value for money.

Also, they aren't too expensive to pick up used, and Edmunds has some for sale from $10,000 - $15,000. Considering many new EVs approach the $30,000 barrier, browsing the used all-electric market can find some bargains. The Chevy Spark EV is a shining example of how far your money can go if you know where to look.

The Spark EV Lags Behind The Bolt EV

Gray Chevrolet Bolt EV
Via Chevrolet

The Spark EV wasn't in the long-term plans for Chevrolet, but it did seem to inspire the manufacturer to invest more in this new technology. Although the Spark EV was discontinued in 2016, a new compact EV was ready to take its place among the Chevy fleet. That new car was the Chevrolet Bolt EV which feels like the true successor to the Spark EV.

As you might expect, the Bolt EV is an upgrade from its predecessor, with an improved range of 259 miles compared to just 82. The Bolt EV also comes with many of the features we expect from a modern car; rear vision camera, fast charging, and lane change alert.

However, the Bolt EV is a significant investment at $31,495 for the base model. For that price, you could get yourself a Spark EV, save yourself $20,000, and dart around the traffic for fun.