Undoubtedly the more interesting of the two members of BMW’s new alt-fuel “i” family, the hybrid i8 made its official debut in Frankfurt this week. BMW’s first plug-in hybrid will go on sale in the U.S. during the spring of 2014, and pricing has been set at $135,925.
What do you get for that M6-like sum? The i8 is a sporty 2+2 coupe that rides on BMW’s new LifeDrive architecture. Like the i3, ultra-lightweight construction and the use of exotic materials like carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and environment-friendly aluminum keep the curb weight low–this sports car weighs just 3285 pounds. CFRP is used for the doors and passenger cell, while the instrument panel has a lightweight magnesium support. The concept car’s styling provides a curb presence that’s as exotic as the starting price, with scissor doors and the unique, overlapped-edge design that’s shared with the i3. A distinctive black band flows across the car, framing the roof and giving the rear pillars a floating aspect. It’s aerodynamic too, with a blanked-out grille, sealed underbody and wind-tunnel designed side skirts and air curtains to improve its progress through the air.
We’ve already seen that it’s possible to get impressive performance out of a plug-in hybrid, so there was little doubt that the i8 would deliver on this front. The gasoline engine is a 1.5 liter twin-turbo three-cylinder that produces 231 horsepower. When coupled with a synchronous electric motor, total output rises to 362 horsepower, channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission. The i8’s gasoline engine powers the rear wheels, while electricity turns the front. The light body should ensure that performance and handling are entertaining. A Driving Experience Control switch provides a choice of five driving modes, from maximum efficiency to race-ready full power. BMW claims a 310-mile range in average conditions and a top speed of 75mph in full-electric mode.
Handling duties are tended to by a double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link rear. BMW’s electronic power steering and Dynamic Damper Control are on hand, and twenty-inch lightweight wheels are standard.
Part of the i8’s brand philosophy is high-tech connectedness as well, so BMW’s ConnectedDrive infotainment and driver-aid system are also included. The i8 gets Park Distance Control, a backup camera and Surround View monitor, an available head-up display and online concierge services.
Will BMW’s idea of a sustainable, environment-friendly sports car take off? The i8 definitely looks much more the business than the Spartan i3, so it’s clear that the brand is serious about taking entertaining driving to the next level. We’ll know more when the i8 hits our shores next year.
