Frankfurt Auto Show 2013: BMW i8 unveiled, priced at Rs 86.72 lakh
Four years after the concept was introduced at the international auto show, BMW has pulled the wraps off its i8 hybrid supercar at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. The 2015 BMW i8 is the second 'i' model and the high-performance coupe counterpart to the 2014 BMW i3, the electric urban car. Boasting a 0-100 kmph dash in 4.4 seconds, the i8 plug-in sports car is priced at $1,35,925 (Rs 86.72 lakh). Â
The mid-engined, 4.7-metre-long i8 uses the same construction concept as the i3, a carbonfibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) shell on a welded all-aluminium chassis. The i8 is a part-time all-wheel-drive. A new 3-cylinder 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine pushes out 232PS powers the rear wheels, with an added 133PS power from lithium-ion electric motor. This assembly is hooked up to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The top speed is restricted to 249kmph. Efficiency numbers stand at 50kmpl and 25g/km of CO2 emissions.
On the outside, the i8 gets the distinct panels at the front, the sills and over the rear wheels, the C-pillar covers form aerofoils, doors are gull-wing style and glass used is chemically hardened. The lamp assemblies get LEDs. Customers also have an option of unique 'laser' headlights, which are 70 percent more powerful than standard LEDs and project "pure white, extremely bright light that is pleasing to the eye".
Inside, a glass cockpit, touchscreen instrument panels and light, ergonomic seats reiterate the featherweight engineering concept. The latest ConnectedDrive and 360 Electric mobility services are other added features.
UK sales for the new i8 start in mid 2014.