The BMW i8 continues its world tour and today landed in Detroit where the hybrid sportscar was the centerpiece at the BMW display. According to the company, the i8 will set a benchmark in the performance segment.
The hybrid produces 349 horsepower and has an overall weight of 1480kg, the equivalent to a power-to-weight ratio of 236 horsepower per 1000 kilograms. BMW says the i8 runs 0 to 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds and a has a fuel consumption of 80 mpg.
The i8 Concept combines the advantages of two different drive systems – an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. The electric motor is not a secondary power source, but rather an equal partner of the internal combustion engine. Initially revealed with a diesel engine, the major change for production models is a new 1.5 liter petrol engine. The engine is mounted at the rear and drives via a dual-clutch gearbox.
BMW i8 measures 4632mm in length, 1955mm in width and 1280mm in height, comparable to the 3 Series coupe in dimensions.
BMW will launch the i8 in 2014 and the rumormill says the price point will be above $150,000.
