Chevrolet is bringing something new to the Middle East’s electric vehicle market: the 2026 Spark EUV. Small, practical, and—most importantly—affordable, this compact electric crossover could be exactly what budget-conscious drivers need to make the switch to electric. With a price expected to be under $20,000, the Spark EUV is setting itself apart in a region where EV adoption is still finding its feet.
A Familiar but Fresh Look
If the Spark EUV looks familiar, that’s because it shares its design DNA with the Baojun Yep Plus SUV, a compact model developed under the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture. Measuring 3,996 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,726 mm in height, it has the proportions of a small city-friendly crossover, with a high hood, rugged wheel arches, and two-tone roof options. The LED lighting and chunky wheels give it a bit of attitude, making it stand out in its segment.
Inside, Chevrolet has kept things simple but modern. The cabin seats four passengers and features leatherette upholstery in either beige or black. A 10.1-inch touchscreen sits at the center of the dashboard, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—a must for drivers who rely on smartphone connectivity.
Battery, Range, and Charging
At the heart of the Spark EUV is a 42 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which powers a 75 kW (101 hp) electric motor delivering 180 Nm of torque. That translates to a range of up to 400 km (249 miles) under ideal conditions—enough for daily commutes and weekend trips without frequent charging.
Speaking of charging, Chevrolet has ensured the Spark EUV is easy to top up. Level 1 charging (3.2 kW) takes about 16.5 hours to fully recharge the battery, while a Level 2 charger (7 kW) does the job in seven hours. But if you’re in a hurry, DC fast charging can take the battery from 30% to 80% in just 35 minutes—perfect for a quick stop while grabbing a coffee.
Affordability in a Pricey EV Market
One of the biggest barriers to EV adoption is cost, and that’s where the Spark EUV could really shake things up. While exact pricing hasn’t been confirmed for all markets, Chevrolet has indicated a starting price of under $20,000, making it one of the most accessible EVs available. In the UAE, it’s expected to start at AED 79,900—significantly lower than most electric options currently on the market.
For buyers who have been hesitant to switch to electric because of high costs, the Spark EUV presents an interesting alternative. It’s also positioned well for younger drivers or those looking for a practical second car that’s cheap to run and easy to park.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
The Spark EUV isn’t alone in the affordable EV space. Other budget-friendly electric cars available in the UAE include the MG ZS EV, a practical electric SUV with decent range and interior space; the JAC E30X, a compact urban EV with a focus on efficiency; and the BYD Atto 3, a well-rounded SUV from one of the biggest names in China’s EV industry. Each of these models offers a slightly different take on what an affordable electric car should be, but the Spark EUV’s sub-$20,000 price tag makes it one of the most accessible options for first-time EV buyers.
A Step in the Right Direction
Chevrolet’s decision to launch the Spark EUV in markets like the Middle East shows a clear shift toward making EVs more practical and attainable. While flashy, high-performance electric cars often steal the spotlight, it’s models like this that could make everyday electric driving a reality for more people. With its mix of affordability, decent range, and smart features, the Spark EUV might just be what the region needs to speed up its EV transition.
