Spark EV is powered by an advanced electric motor and battery system.

ENGADGET: Chevy details 2014 Spark EV: under $25,000, 0-60 in 8 seconds and a 20-minute fast charge

Its no-contact drive system uses an advanced low-noise motor and geared belt to ensure control over speed while filtering out vibration.

FORBES: EAR Disc Master Turntable

It seems odd: After all the research Toyota Motor and its partner, Panasonic, have done in the area of advanced lithium-ion batteries, the Japanese carmaker decided that maybe Tesla Motors' crude approach--stringing together a bunch of laptop batteries--is the preferred way to power electric vehicles, at least for now.

FORBES

The mariner uses a 250 watt free-spinning motor mounted in the front wheel for propulsion and high capacity 36 volt 9 amp hour advanced lithium battery (LiFEPO4) which provide a smooth, powered ride on flat and hilly terrain.

FORBES: Green Gear Test - Folding Electric Bikes