The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid based on the Vision concept first shown in 2009.
BMW is showing a rebadged version of its i8 Concept Spyder at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. In future, the designation eDrive will identify the drive technology for all electric and plug-in hybrid cars from BMW as indicated on the new badge on the old concept car.
Back in February BWM introduced the new “BMW i sub-brand” of electric and hybrid cars that will debut in 2013 with the production of BMW i3 and BMW i8. BMW also established a holding company called BMW i Ventures capitalized at $100 million. Let’s see – i before e except after…
BMW eDrive comprises the components of the electric drivetrain: the electric motor, lithium-ion battery pack, a motor management system. This technology ensures that electro-mobility with BMW eDrive offers a “unique” and no doubt very expensive experience.
The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid based on the Vision concept first shown in 2009 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. A 3 series plug-in is also on the way. They will be built in Leipzig, after an estimated investment of €400 million and the creation of 800 jobs.
At that time BMW claimed the i8 sports car accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, with electronically limited top speed 250 km/h. Fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 km and CO2 emissions are 99 grams/kilometer.
Both the i3 and i8 models are clearly designed to garner credits so that BMW can continue to sell conventional cars and trucks that emit higher levels of CO2; both use extensive amounts of aluminum and other light weight materials to partially offset the mass of their lithium ion batteries.
