BMW’s i8 Concept blows the top off at Auto China 2012

BMW’s i8 Concept blows the top off at Auto China 2012

Making its first global appearance in Beijing is the BMW i8 Spyder Concept, which is an open top variant of the i8 plug-in hybrid that first debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

It is the third variation of the i8 to be launched so far, but the first to feature the eDrive emblem on the rear. It will be a badge that all future BMW i models with an electric motor, lithium-ion battery and motor management system will proudly carry.

BMW’s i8 Concept blows the top off at Auto China 2012

The i8 Spyder’s hybrid powertrain remains unchanged from its coupe sister’s – an electric motor powers the front wheels while a 1.5 litre three-cylinder petrol engine powers the rear wheels. Total output is 350 hp and top speed is limited at 250 km/h.

It is, however, slightly shorter both in wheelbase and overall length than the coupe. Also, due to its roll-over hoops and solid metal doors, the i8 Spyder is 100 kg heavier than the coupe, and therefore takes five seconds to sprint to 100 km/h, compared to the coupe’s 4.6. Not so significant then, as shortcomings go.

BMW’s i8 Concept blows the top off at Auto China 2012

A long and flat 7.2 kWh lithium-ion battery along the bottom length of the car gives it a front/rear weight distribution of nearly 50:50, as well as a range of 35 km on electric power alone. A full charge takes two hours.

BMW says it plans to have the i8 in production by 2014.

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Jonathan James Tan

While most dream of the future, Jonathan Tan dreams of the past, although he's never been there. Fantasises much too often about cruising down Treacher Road (Jalan Sultan Ismail) in a Triumph Stag that actually works, and hopes this stint here will snap him back to present reality.

 

Comments

  • not a car enthusiast on Apr 24, 2012 at 8:12 am

    Imagine seeing this car zipping past you on the road. You would not be too far off thinking that some future cars have suddenly time-travelled back to present.

    Nice..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • Obama on Apr 24, 2012 at 10:23 am

      I hope by 2014 the car is still relevant as the technology now has been improving in such a fast pace.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Polo Saga on Apr 24, 2012 at 9:34 am

    awesome design.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • arman on Apr 24, 2012 at 10:21 am

    i wonder how exactly this car look like on highway..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • putra_rider on Apr 24, 2012 at 11:02 am

    could be next 007 car?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
    • Obama on Apr 24, 2012 at 12:18 pm

      It has been used by Ethan Hunt, so James Bond will be just ignored it! LOL!!

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Nothing to shout about. Proton will eat you for bfast.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • danedz on Apr 24, 2012 at 4:48 pm

    I thought this car already been use in Ghost Protocol….mmm…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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