As promised, we are back with the fresh details on BMW’s fully electric i range from the press conference held on Friday. If yesterday we analyzed the BMW i3 Concept, today we will talk about the other model in the range, the i8 plug-in hybrid which follows to be available starting 2013 along the fully electric i3. The first obvious difference between the first i models is the powertrain, the new BMW i8 adopting a hybrid setup with an electric motor and a 1.5-liter gasoline unit.

The electric engine is placed on the front axle and delivers 129 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, coupled to a twin-speed transmission which transfers the power to the front wheels. On the other hand, the 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline unit is able to produce 220 horses and 300 Nm of torque, the rear wheels receiving the power thanks to a dual clutch transmission.

As a hybrid model, the new BMW i8 can run fully electric for about 35 kilometers while charging the lithium-ion batteries takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. In conclusion, the total power amount reaches 349 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque making the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h possible in 4,6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h, electronically limited.

These impressive features of the German sports car are even greater considering that BMW announced a combined fuel consumption of only 2,7 liters/100 km. In terms of dimensions, the i8 Concept measures 4,6m long, 1,9m wide and 1,2m tall.

The great power amount offered by the new i8 is also valued by the low total mass of only 1,480 kilograms achieved by using a carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) body and an aluminum chassis. The Germans claim that they managed to obtain a 50/50 weight distribution by mounting the engines on each axle, this achievement bringing significant advantages.

“The sporting character continues into the interior. Boasting a driver-focused environment unmatched by any BMW Group vehicle before it, the BMW i8 Concept immerses the driver fully in the unique driving experience. The BMW i8 Concept is the sports car for a new generation – pure, emotional and sustainable,” adds BMW.

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