Following numerous debates, leaked info, or renderings based on spy photos, the almighty 2018 BMW i8 Roadster has been finally revealed to the world in the first official videos which highlight its exclusive exterior, exciting driving and performance capabilities.

The model is also highlighted standing side-by-side its i8 Coupe variant, both models looking exceptionally well and appealing.

From a visual standpoint, the new i8 Coupe is everything a BMW enthusiast would ever want – a more evolutionary design, state-of-the-art technology, improved mile range and so on; and the i8 Convertible follows the same aesthetic rules.

As we can depict from the videos below, the 2018 BMW i8 Roadster features a soft top roof which is electronically stowed in its compartment in just 16 seconds. We are also dealing here with a fabric roof featuring a 3D printed mechanism that increases the car`s cargo space.

Inside, the i8 Roadster`s interior offers generous space as well, complemented with Tera World Copper with E-Copper upholstery, carbon fiber trim and sport steering wheel. All these are in perfect balance with the car`s exterior choice of E-Copper or Donnington Grey colours.

As mentioned before in previous posts, just like the new i8 Coupe, the i8 Roadster too comes with an increased range of around 18 miles.

The hybrid`s drivetrain involves a three-cylinder turbocharged engine plus an electric motor, which delivers a total of 369 horsepower. It also manages an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, meaning a 0.2 second difference compared with the i8 Coupe. The new battery also allows for an average consumption of 70 eMPG.

And since words are useless at this point, we invite you to watch the impressive videos revealing the new 2018 BMW i8 Coupe and i8 Roadster in all their plenitude! Do you find any particular differences between the two of them? Please comment!

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post Official Videos: 2018 BMW i8 Roadster – Exterior & Driving Detailed appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

With a shy approach in the tuning segment just a little while after its introduction on the market, the BMW i8 has gradually become one of the most sought after models, being released in hundreds of exquisite programs from different tuning companies.

We mostly got to see it wearing the exclusive wheels from Vorsteiner, ADV.1 Wheels, Wheels Boutique and so on, and adding lots of high-end body styling bits.

One of the many projects involves this BMW i8 dressed in Frozen iElectric Blue and wrapping the exquisite new wheels from HRE Wheels tuning company. The entire fitting was carried out by Baan Velgen, an aftermarket shop from the Netherlands. The model was then taken for an impressive photo session produced by Thomas Van Rooij photography.

As we can depict from the media gallery below, the model is standing out from the crowd with the HRE Performance Wheels, part of the tuner`s S201H lineup. The wheels feature hidden assembly bolts, 360 degree surfacing, all making the model look extremely aggressive and impressive.

As for the plug-in hybrid`s powertrain under the hood, there aren`t any mods, the BMW i8 still packing the 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol synchronous engine and an electric motor, delivering a total of 362 horsepower, allowing an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, at a top speed of 250 km/h. The model also comes with a range of 35 kilometers at a top speed of 120 km/h.

You can find out more details of the BMW i8 on HRE Wheels in the media gallery below. Enjoy and don’t forget to share your opinions on the model!

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post Frozen iElectric Blue BMW i8 Sits on HRE Wheels appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

The word is finally out at BMW`s stand about the new i8 CrossFace Concept by Garage Italia Customs, the model already taking the breath away of many visitors already visiting the German based stand.

Built in collaboration with Italia Customs, the BMW i8 CrossFade represents the joint effort of creating one of the most complex plug-in hybrids in terms of design, innovation and technology. According to the joint venture, the focus was on “a specific colour design, developed from a common painting genre during the late 18th and early 20th century, which gives an expressive appearance.”

Also speaking about the car`s exquisite and breathtaking design, Adrian von Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design, has also declared in a recent interview:

“Lapo Elkann is a pioneer in linking the disciplines of fashion, automobile and design. As a designer, I find this comprehensive approach particularly exciting. With BMW i, we have been successful in overcoming previous restrictions in automotive design through the use of entirely new materials. So the progressive expressiveness of the Garage Italia CrossFade Edition is perfectly in keeping with the BMW i3 and the BMW i8.”

The BMW i8`s exterior colour is a combination between the Protonic Blue and Protonic Dark Silver, which prodives the model with an extremely sporty look and more aggressive personality.

The interior of the BMW i8 CrossFace Edition is also highlighted by the car`s exterior, coming with dark silver and pure blue accents printed on Alcantara fabrics covering the central tunnel, headliner and side panels. The cabin also features the famous Foglizzo leather seats, as well as the Protonic Blue and perforated Alcantara with contrast stitching.

Unfortunately, only 20 units of the BMW i8 CrossFade will be built worldwide, with jsut one of them heading to Germany. Stayt tuned for fresh media gallery from Geneva!

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post 2017 Geneva Motor Show: BMW i8 CrossFade Concept by Garage Italia Customs appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

First previewed about a week ago, the gorgeous BMW i8 and M240i by AC Schnitzer have finally arrived at the tuner`s stand in Geneva, with the curious eyes already staring at the cars` exquisite aero packages.

Not only carmakers worldwide get their chances of presenting their latest models, tuners too have the opportunity of revealing their custom-built rides. And AC Schnitzer with their exquisite models will be a real hit.

The German tuner decided to celebrate their 10th anniversary on the market by launching the aforementioned BMW products, both of them coming with impressive carbon fiber body elements and upgraded power under the hood.

The tuner`s outstanding carbon pieces that can be observed on the M240i also dubbed the ACL2S, refer to carbon fiber front spoiler and splitter, carbon fiber side mirrors, side skirts, rear roof spoiler or carbon wing. Under the hood, the M240i ACL2S also packs a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine which now develops 440 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.

The power upgrade was achieved thanks to an ECU remapping, new exhaust system, downpipe and intake, the tuner also adding fully adjustable RS suspension kit.

On the other hand, the i8 gets noticed from the start with the same carbon fiber aero package, adding other cool features as well – carbon fiber middle front spoiler, carbon fiber bonnet top with middle strut, carbon fiber front side wings, new side skirts and carbon fiber rear wing. The entire kit is complemented with the new lowering kit, which lowers the car`s ride height by 25 mm at the front and 20 mm at the rear, increasing its stance and driving capabilities. The plug-in hybrid`s powertrain has remained stock.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post BMW i8 & M240i by AC Schnitzer Revealed in Geneva appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

The coming of the BMW i8 on the market around four years have inspired tuning companies all over the world to come up with exquisite programs that shape the plug-in hybrid`s personality and transform it into one of a kind German model.

And slowly but surely, we get to see more and more aftermarket shops applying their skills on different i8 models, fitting them with not only just a handful of updates and wheels, also upgrading them beyond recognition with carbon fiber aero packages.

The latest edition to pop-up on the internet is the below Crystal Pearl White Metallic body wrap, recently coming with the high-performance wheels from ADV.1 Wheels tuning company, a leading shop in the wheel industry.

The wheels involved the tuner`s new edition – the ADV05 M.V2 Competition Spec Series – sized 21 x9 and 21 x 10.5 front and rear, respectively and finished in Matte Gunmetal, which perfectly complement the car` exterior colour.

Besides the new wheels, the engineers ADV.1 Wheels have also installed the well-known H&R Lowering Springs, which lower the car`s ride height for increased stance and advanced driving capabilities. As for the car`s engine under the hood, the tuner have left it stock.

This means that the BMW i8 comes with a I5 three-cylinder turbocharged TwinPower Turbo engine, developing 231 horsepower and sending the power to the rear axle. The conventional mill is coupled to an electric drive system which adds an extra 131 horsepower, all being sent to the front.

With all this sheer power, the plug-in hybrid is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, which makes it more outstanding than the M3 or M4. The all-electric range is also set at 35 km, at a topping of 120 km/h, with an overall of 530 km range.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post BMW i8 in Crystal Pearl White Metallic Sits on ADV Wheels appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

The premium brand of Group PSA which creates special Citroen models, DS Automobiles, is well-known for manufacturing its own custom rides as well, and the finest example is the recent release of the DS 7, already presented a couple of days back.

As for building a hypercar with worthy performance of a supercar, DS is reported to come out with a worthy rival for the new BMW i8. The report comes from Auto Express which states that the model in question could take its inspiration from the E-Tense Concept revealed at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

This comes after DS Automobiles have partnered a group of Canadian investors, like Exagon Motors, Hydro-Quebec`s IndusTech and Investissement Quebec, to manufacture a high-performance the necessary parts for building such a powerful hybrid supercar.

We are looking here at a monster hybrid car which would come with an ultra-futuristic design, extremely advanced aerodynamics and sheer performance under the hood. Speaking about performance, the BMW`s i8 362 horsepower might be left in the dust with the DS`s new supercar, with around 600 horsepower.

Yves Bonnefont, Chief Executive at DS Automobiles, have also hinted the idea of such a powerful hybrid model, stating in an interview with Auto Express that “This is a possibility, yes, but it`s far too early to talk about anything.”

As a reminder, the BMW i8 is equipped same I3 1.5-liter synchronous engine backed by an electric motor. The overall power stands at 362 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, with a top speed of 250 km/h.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post BMW i8 Could Be No Match for Future DS`s Hybrid Monster appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

The news with the upcoming Spyder variant of the BMW i8 are not fresh, the carmaker already sending the model in previous tests. Now we have the chance of seeing the cool convertible in a fresh batch of spy photos while performing in the snow.

BMW is planning to introduce the all-new Spyder i8 on the market sometime next year, along with the facelifted BMW i8 Coupe, but until then, it has to make sure that everything is in the right place.

So here we are with new shots and fresh details with the new i8 Spyder. Unlike the previous shots, this test mule seen here is wearing the soft top and is coming with some new details concerning the body style.

There are some visible changes at the exterior – the updated front and which is the same as in the facelifted coupe, redesigned front and rear bumpers and others – the model being also expected to come with some improvements in the engine department as well.

According to new reports, the BMW i8 Spyder is likely to be equipped with a high-performance lithium ion-battery, with improved electric range, just like the facelifted i8 Coupe. The model will also have more power along with the latest technology onboard, like semi-autonomous driving also seen on other high-end models, like the 2017 BMW 5-Series or 2016 BMW 7-Series.

We are not sure if the carmaker will officially lift the veils of the new i8 Coupe and Spyder at any of the most important auto events of the year. Some rumors state that it is likely to see it next January, at the 2018 NAIAS, in Detroit.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post Spy Shots: Up-Close with the All-New BMW i8 Spyder appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

Besides the ordinary drag races that we get to see conventional models getting their piece of the action, there are also “those” kind of races where technology meets raw power. And that is exactly what happens in the drag race below.

We have recently had the pleasure…or not…depending how you look at it, of seeing the Giulia`s top of the line QV taking on the BMW i8. We are actually looking here at sheer power vs technology.

Let`s not forget that the new Alfa Romeo Giulia QV was released as the direct competitor of the BMW M3, and sadly, the German car is not match for such a Italian beast, not even with the Competition Package.

So, Bay Area Racing from California, which deals with organizing exquisite racing events, has decided to put the QV head-to-head with the BMW i8. The entire drag race can be seen in the video below, but before you watch it, just see both cars` general characteristics.

The Alfa Romeo Giulia QV is taking its power from a 3.0-liter turbo V6 unit, developing a good 510 horsepower, ready to tackle the 0 to 100 km/h short straight line in 3.9 seconds. Adding the carbon fiber elements on the body and you have an impressive ride.

On the other hand, the BMW i8 comes with a I5 three-cylinder turbocharged TwinPower Turbo engine, developing 231 horsepower and sending the power to the rear axle. The conventional mill is coupled to an electric drive system which adds an extra 131 horsepower, all being sent to the front.

With all this sheer power, the plug-in hybrid is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, which makes it more outstanding than the M3 or M4. Now, you get to choose which one is the fastest in the straight line run.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post Drag Race: Alfa Romeo Giulia QV vs. BMW i8 appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

The BMW i8 was unveiled in 2013 and was quite a real sensation kind of plug-in hybrid on the market, especially because of its artistic design that would eventually lead to exquisite customizations in the tuning world.

And so it happened, the i8`s body style and design language being highlighted by different aggressive tuning programs that would make it worthy of any fictional name and Hi-Fi film symbolistic.

We have seen it wearing the Dark Vather`s clothing and now we are witnessing another outstanding program, highlighted by the “Dark Night Edition” theme, especially designed by Japanese tuning company Energy Motor Sport.

The BMW i8 Dark Night Edition looks extremely cool and ultra-futuristic at the same time, which implies the fitting of the Energy Motor Sport`s Evo kit, meaning some one-off body styling pieces.

We are looking here at bespoke front bumper, over fender with duct, rear wing and rear flipper kit and mirror cover.

Other features also include the custom-built exhaust system or the extremely wide 21-inch alloy wheels, which makes the car extremely imposing. Inside, the model has also received red leather and other bespoke tweaks. Overall, we might be looking here at the perfect model to go for a night photo session.

The BMW i8 was unveiled with a I5 three-cylinder turbocharged TwinPower Turbo engine, developing 231 horsepower and sending the power to the rear axle. The conventional mill is coupled to an electric drive system which adds an extra 131 horsepower, all being sent to the front.

With all this sheer power, the plug-in hybrid is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, which makes it more outstanding than the M3 or M4. The all-electric range is also set at 35 km, at a topping of 120 km/h, with an overall of 530 km range.

About Post Author

Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post This Is BMW i8 “Dark Night Edition” by Energy Motor Sports appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.

Just like the regular carmakers worldwide, tuners too will officially introduce their special rides at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, which opens its gates next week. AC Schnitzer German house will release their specially-modified BMW i8 with Carbon Aerodynamic Accessories.

As you can predict, we are looking here at carbon fiber accessories and some fine mechanics which make the i8 extremely appealing and more aggressive. The model is now coming with carbon fiber front spoiler and side skirts, carbon Racing rear wing which increase the car`s aerodynamics, as well as the new lowering springs which lower its ride height by 25 mm and 20 mm front and rear, respectively.

Other fine features also refer to the carbon fiber middle front spoiler, carbon fiber bonnet top with middle strut, carbon front side wing and more carbon fiber air outlets at both front and rear for a sportier look and greater stance.

We should also mention the carbon fiber skirts on both sides, with three-piece carbon rear diffuser providing the i8 with more downforce and better pressure distribution, adding as well carbon fiber door handle recesses and mirror covers, and new logos.

The impressive carbon fiber aero kit is complemented with the tuner`s special and lightweight AC1 Forged Alloy Wheels in BiColor or Anthracite which perfectly complement the Red Chrome exterior wrap. They are sized 21 x 8.5J and 21 x 9.5J front and rear, respectively, and are also built to increase the car`s impressive dynamics.

The cabin also comes with new touches, like aluminum pedal set, aluminum footrest and floor mats which bring a sportier feel and cozy look. In the engine department, the model remains stock. We should find out full prices next week in Geneva.

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Marcus M.

http://www.bmwcoop.com

The post BMW i8 with Carbon Aerodynamic Accessories by AC Schnitzer appeared first on BMWCoop | BMW Blog, BMW News, BMW Reviews.