BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition debuts at Geneva with exclusive finish
BMW has revealed the i8 Protonic Red Edition at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, offering unique styling features but no mechanical changes to its plug-in hybrid sports car.
BMW used the 2016 Geneva Motor Show to unveil the i8 Protonic Red Edition, a limited-run version of its plug-in hybrid sports car. The new variant introduces unique design features but leaves the car’s mechanical specification unchanged.
BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition: Geneva Motor Show Unveiling
- i8 Protonic Red Edition revealed at 2016 Geneva Motor Show
- Exclusive Protonic Red paint with Frozen Grey accents
- 20-inch W-spoke alloy wheels in Aluminium matte and Orbit Grey
- Interior gains red stitching, carbon-fibre trim and special detailing
- No changes to hybrid powertrain: 357hp, 0–60mph in 4.2 seconds
Distinctive Exterior and Interior Features
The Protonic Red Edition stands out with its bespoke Protonic Red exterior paint, complemented by Frozen Grey metallic accents. BMW fits 20-inch W-spoke alloy wheels finished in Aluminium matte and Orbit Grey, setting the car apart from standard i8s. Inside, the special edition features red contrast stitching, carbon-fibre trim, “i8” embossed headrests and black ceramic detailing on the gear selector. Door sills carry Protonic Red Edition branding, and the seatbelts are finished in grey. Floor mats with leather piping and red stitching round out the cabin updates.
| Feature | Protonic Red Edition | Standard i8 |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Paint | Protonic Red with Frozen Grey accents | Standard colour options |
| Wheels | 20-inch W-spoke, Aluminium matte/Orbit Grey | Standard alloy wheels |
| Interior Stitching | Red contrast | Standard stitching |
| Trim | Carbon-fibre, black ceramic gear selector | Standard trim |
| Headrests | "i8" embossed | Standard |
| Seatbelts | Grey | Standard |
| Door Sills | Protonic Red Edition branding | Standard |
Performance and Powertrain
BMW has not altered the i8’s powertrain for the Protonic Red Edition. The car retains its 1.5-litre three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine paired with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery. Combined system output remains at 357hp, with 0–60mph covered in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 155mph (250km/h). The car’s plug-in hybrid setup and carbon-fibre construction continue to define its appeal for buyers seeking both performance and environmental credentials.
| Engine | 1.5-litre TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder petrol |
|---|---|
| Electric Motor | Integrated with lithium-ion battery |
| Combined Power Output | 357hp |
| 0–60mph | 4.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155mph (250km/h) |
| Drivetrain | Plug-in hybrid |
Special Editions and Market Strategy
With the i8 now two years into production, BMW is using limited editions like the Protonic Red to maintain interest while a full facelift is still some way off. The car’s core technology remains unchanged, but the new finish and interior details aim to attract buyers looking for exclusivity in a hybrid sports car.
