Smashing Result for All-New Spark

LUTON, UNITED KINGDOM – November 25, 2009: The all-new Chevrolet Spark has received a strong four-star safety rating from the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP), putting it amongst the strongest performers in the city car class.

The Spark received 69 out of a possible 100 points, coming within a single point of a maximum five-star rating.

"The outstanding performance of our new mini-car in stringent Euro NCAP testing reflects our attention to safety as well as eye-catching styling and great packaging," said Wayne Brannon, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe. "The Spark meets the high expectations of mini-car buyers in Europe's mature markets."

In Adult Protection, the Spark recorded the maximum score of 8 points in the side impact crash test against a moving deformable barrier. It also received a high score of 7.35 points out of 8 points in the side pole test, indicating solid passenger protection in the event of a more severe side collision.

In Child Protection, the Spark also scored maximum points in Child Restraint System dynamic performance tests, which evaluate child protection from possible injuries in various types of crashes. Crash test dummies representing 18-month old and 3-year-old children were properly contained in their restraints by the Spark's protective shell during side impact tests.

These achievements are the result of the Chevrolet Spark's structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety features. More than 66 per cent of the car's body is constructed of high-strength steel, with 16.5 per cent comprised of ultra-high-strength steel. The latter is mostly used in the longitudinal member of the underbody, and front and centre pillars in the side body structure. This contributed to its strong performance in side crash tests.

Standard safety equipment in the Chevrolet Spark includes driver, front passenger, side and curtain air bags. Seat belts in front are equipped with pretensioners while three three-point belts protect passengers in back.

The Spark goes on sale in the UK in spring 2010