At the beginning of the month, BMW unveiled its i8 hybrid sports car in the Roadster version at the LA Auto Show. Baroque Ground was there
The much-anticipated Roadster version of the BMW i8 is finally here, and it boasts more power than its predecessor, as well as in increased range of electric driving, not to mention new additions to its interior. The German automaker revealed the new vehicle and its updated coupe variant at the LA Auto Show at the beginning of December.
The new hybrid i8 also boasts a lithium-ion battery pack that features an increased 11.6-kilowatt per hour capacity. This bigger battery gives a 12 horsepower hike in power from the electric system, giving it a total output of 141hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. Other battery improvements include a longer all-electric range, meaning that the new i8 is able to travel for up to 18 miles on electric-only mode. This is an increase of 15 miles compared to the i8’s old battery.
So what can be expected from BMW’s new i8 Hybrid? It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds, for starters, and it apparently reaches that speed in just 4.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 miles per hour.
The new Roadster also features a fabric top that apparently opens in a mere 15 seconds at speeds of up to 31 miles per hour. The new iteration is also not much heavier than its predecessor, because it has been made from carbon fiber-enforced plastic and aluminum. The i8 with a drop top is just 132 pounds heavier than the coupe, which weighs 3,513 pounds.
BMW calls its new i8 “an entirely new concept of sports car”. It’s more efficient than its predecessor, because of its intelligent lightweight construction and more sustainable with BMW’s extremely efficient eDrive technology and its recyclable materials used in creating the interior.
This plug-in hybrid offers drivers the advantages of innovative electric motor and combustion engine technologies and creates an extraordinary driving experience with low consumption and low emissions.
When you first look at the vehicle, it resembles a sports car. It’s extremely low and wide when viewed from the front and features a flat silhouette with powerfully formed surfaces and precise lines. Your second look will reveal the design that has resulted in a sustainable, efficient car that is both dynamic and sporty. Combining an electric motor with a powerful petrol engine has given the world a sports car that is one of the most innovative of all time.
BMW’s i8 Roadster and coupe will both be available in Spring 2018. Pricing has not yet been announced.