Photo Gallery, Review & Specifications |
2011 BMW i8 Concept
BMW i8 Concept is a sports car of the most contemporary variety: forward-looking, intelligent and innovative. Its unique plug-in hybrid solution brings together a combustion engine and an electric drive system to create an extraordinary driving experience complemented by extremely low fuel consumption and emissions. (continued below)
2011 i8 Concept Photo Gallery |
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Plug-In Hybrid BMW i8 Concept is an Extremely Fuel Efficient Sports Car
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Source: BMW | Published: Fri Jul 29, 2011 |
(continued from above)
BMW i is about the development of visionary vehicles and mobility services,
inspiring design and a new understanding of premium that is strongly defined by
sustainability. With BMW i the BMW Group is adopting an all-embracing approach,
redefining the understanding of personal mobility with purpose-built vehicle
concepts, a focus on sustainability throughout the value chain and a range of
complementary mobility services.
The BMW i8 Concept and the fascinating
approach that underpins it embody the vision of a sustainable contemporary
sports car brought to life. Its innovative plug-in hybrid concept combines the
modified electric drive system from the BMW i3 Concept - fitted over its front
axle - with a high-performance three-cylinder combustion engine producing 220 hp
(164 kW) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) at the rear. Working in tandem, they allow the
two drive systems to display their respective talents to the full, delivering
the performance of a sports car but the fuel consumption of a small car.
Acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds combined with fuel consumption
in the European cycle of under three liters per 100 kilometers (approx. 94 mpg
imp) are figures currently beyond the capability of any vehicle powered by a
combustion engine of comparable performance. Thanks to its large lithium-ion
battery, which can be charged from a domestic power supply, the BMW i8 Concept
can travel up to 20 miles (35 kilometers) on electric power alone. Added to
which, the 2+2-seater offers enough space for four people, giving it a high
level of everyday practicality.
The LifeDrive architecture of the BMW i8
Concept has been carefully adapted to enhance the vehicle's sports car
character, and therefore to deliver unbeatable performance and excellent driving
dynamics. The motor in the front axle module and combustion engine at the rear
are connected by an "energy tunnel", which houses the high-voltage battery. This
gives the car a low center of gravity - and the dynamic benefits that come with
it. The positioning of the electric motor and engine over their respective axles
and the space-saving and well-balanced packaging of all components result in an
optimum 50/50 weight distribution.
The emotional design of the BMW i8
Concept ensures its qualities are clear for all to see. Its dynamic proportions
give the BMW i8 Concept the appearance of surging forward before it even turns a
wheel and lend visual form to its extraordinary performance.
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.
BMW i8 Concept: Review (2/2)
Specifications |
Key: AT - automatic transmission, MT - manual transmission, F/R/AWD - front/rear/all wheel drive |
Powertrain |
Type |
I4, Turbocharged + Electric Motor |
Displacement |
92 cu in (1500 cc) |
Power |
220 hp |
Torque |
221 lb-ft |
Redline |
n/a |
Electric Power |
130 hp |
Electric Torque |
184 lb-ft |
Driveline |
All Wheel Drive |
Transmission |
Variable Speed Automatic |
Brakes & Tires |
Brakes Front - Rear |
Ventilated Discs - Ventilated Discs |
Tire Size Front - Rear |
R19 |
Exterior Dimensions & Weight |
Length |
182.4 in |
Width |
77 in |
Height |
50.4 in |
Curb Weight |
3263 lbs |
Performance |
0-60 mph |
4.4 s |
1/4 Mile |
n/a |
60-0 Braking |
n/a |
Top Speed |
155 mph |
Fuel Economy |
NEDC Fuel Consumption - Combined |
2.7 l/100 km |
Range |
All Electric Range |
20 miles |
Total Range |
n/a |
Origin & Price |
Origin |
Germany |
Base Retail Price (MSRP) |
n/a |