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The General Motors (GM) Chevrolet Spark EV propulsion system builds upon the knowledge and experience gained from development of GM's Volt advanced propulsion system and the Chevy Spark Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) global vehicle architecture. The reuse of the modified Volt propulsion and charging systems and evolution of an existing vehicle architecture were key enablers to bring the Spark EV to market. The Spark vehicle architecture was converted from a traditional ICE to a functional Electric Vehicle (EV). Key elements of the EV include the first GM designed and built permanent magnet motor, a single speed coaxial transmission and liquid cooled power electronics and high voltage (HV) battery. The vehicle architecture modifications allowed space for a high voltage battery and propulsion system.

Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), which are Off board charging capable Electric Vehicles (EV) with an on board charging generator, rely on very complex Rechargeable Energy Storage Systems (RESS) and High Voltage (HV) distribution systems to enable operation as both an EV and an EREV. The connect feature manages the connection and disconnection of a High Voltage (HV) Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS) to and from the high voltage components in the vehicle. The RESS is connected to the vehicle's high voltage system to enable vehicle operation. The HV connect feature is a part of occupant, service personnel and first responder safety for all General Motors vehicles that contain high voltage systems. Implementation of the connect feature is the method deployed in GM vehicles to meet high voltage FMVSS requirements.