The i8 is based on BMW’s Vision EfficientDynamics concept, and is one of the first models in BMW’s i sub-brand, along with the i3 electric hatchback. The BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports coupe measures 4,632mm long, 1,280 mm tall and 1,955 wide, and is expected to go into production by 2013, following its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September this year.
The i8 comes with a modified electric drive system that is also used in the i3, but is fitted over the front axle. A 1.5-litre high performance turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine powers the i8, with the unit producing 220bhp and 300Nm of torque. Petrol power is sent to the rear wheels via a dual clutch transmission, while the electric motor uses a twin-speed transmission to move the front wheels. When combined, both drivetrains produce a total of 349bhp and 550Nm of torque. This enables the i8 to go from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds, and reach its electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h.
The i8's electric motor is powered by a large lithium-ion battery, which can be fully charged from a domestic power supply in 1 hour and 45 minutes. BMW claims that this allows the i8 to travel on electric power alone for up to 30km. BMW also adds that the positioning of the electric motor and engine over their respective axles result in an optimum 50/50 weight distribution, while the extensive use of lightweight materials including aluminum on the chassis and CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced plastic) on the body, help keep the weight down to 1,480kg.
The i8 comes with a modified electric drive system that is also used in the i3, but is fitted over the front axle. A 1.5-litre high performance turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine powers the i8, with the unit producing 220bhp and 300Nm of torque. Petrol power is sent to the rear wheels via a dual clutch transmission, while the electric motor uses a twin-speed transmission to move the front wheels. When combined, both drivetrains produce a total of 349bhp and 550Nm of torque. This enables the i8 to go from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds, and reach its electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h.
The i8's electric motor is powered by a large lithium-ion battery, which can be fully charged from a domestic power supply in 1 hour and 45 minutes. BMW claims that this allows the i8 to travel on electric power alone for up to 30km. BMW also adds that the positioning of the electric motor and engine over their respective axles result in an optimum 50/50 weight distribution, while the extensive use of lightweight materials including aluminum on the chassis and CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced plastic) on the body, help keep the weight down to 1,480kg.
