BMW i8 Makes Production Debut at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

BMW has presented the production-ready i8 at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, confirming the technical details and design of its long-awaited plug-in hybrid sports car. The i8, which attracted considerable attention on the show floor, marks the first time BMW has brought its advanced petrol-electric coupe to market in final form.

The i8 uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology, mounted behind the passenger compartment and driving the rear wheels. This engine produces 231hp and 320Nm of torque. At the front axle, an electric motor delivers 131hp and 250Nm, drawing energy from a lithium-ion battery pack located along the car’s central tunnel. The combined system output is 362hp and 570Nm, with power sent to all four wheels when required.

BMW claims the i8 can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 4.4 seconds, while returning average fuel consumption of 113mpg (2.5l/100km) on the official EU test cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 59g/km. The car’s battery provides an electric-only range of up to 22 miles, and can be recharged from a standard domestic socket or a dedicated wallbox. The petrol engine extends the total range well beyond 300 miles.

Design and interior

The i8’s body is constructed from a combination of aluminium and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic, keeping kerb weight down to 1,490kg. The car features distinctive dihedral doors, a low-slung coupe profile and aerodynamic detailing developed to reduce drag and maximise efficiency. Inside, the i8 offers a 2+2 seating layout, though the rear seats are suitable only for short journeys or additional luggage.