(continued from above)
Following the presentation of the BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept, the BMW
Group introduces the BMW i8 Concept Spyder to the mix. This third BMW i model
embodies the future of cutting-edge and emotionally appealing mobility concepts.
Its sporting design headlines the qualities of an open-top two-seater blending
lightness, dynamic capability and efficiency with a very special aesthetic
allure.
The combination of intelligent lightweight design and state-of-the-art hybrid
technology imbues the BMW i8 Concept Spyder with genuine sports car performance,
yet its fuel consumption is no higher than you would expect from a small car.
Among the most eye-catching features of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder are the
upward-swivelling, windowless doors and a range of purpose-oriented on-board
equipment including electric kickboards stowed under a transparent tailgate. The
sports car is based around the innovative LifeDrive architecture, itself
underpinned by a lightweight modular construction and the use of high-quality
high-tech materials. The BMW i8 Concept Spyder is a plug-in hybrid powered by an
eDrive drivetrain combining a high-performance electric motor and petrol
combustion engine. The lithium-ion battery supplying the motor with power can be
recharged in an extremely short space of time from any domestic power socket.
Together, the car's minimised weight, low centre of gravity and finely judged
balance, coupled with a combined system output of up to 260 kW (354 hp), promise
unbeatable dynamic capability, exceptional efficiency and unbridled driving
pleasure.
BMW i8 Concept Spyder with eDrive
Barely a year after the unveiling of the 2+2-seater BMW i8 Concept, BMW i is
presenting the second variant of this innovative hybrid sports car, a machine
designed to light up the path to compelling and purpose-oriented mobility. Like
its Coupe sibling, the emotionally charged BMW i8 Concept Spyder combines
intelligent lightweight design with the leading-edge drivetrain technology
eDrive, while its open-top two-seater construction delivers an even more intense
driving experience. This is a car in which outstanding performance potential
goes hand-in-hand with extremely low fuel consumption and emissions.
Compared with the Coupe variant of the BMW i8 Concept, the BMW i8 Concept Spyder
has a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length. With its compact dimensions
and distinctive exterior paintwork, the sports car exudes a feeling of dynamism
before it so much as turns a wheel, while striking features of its design
include upward-swivelling, windowless doors and a transparent glass panel at the
rear. Underneath this cover two electric kickboards are stowed, providing a
visual showcase for the fun factor in mobility and adding another layer to the
car's recreational appeal. Inside, a revised material and color concept provides
an extra dose of sportiness. Like the Coupe, the BMW i8 Concept Spyder with
eDrive is a high-performance plug-in hybrid, and it fuses the specific
advantages of an electric motor and combustion engine to optimum effect.
Exceptional efficiency and dynamic capability are the upshot.
2012 BMW i8 Spyder Concept, rear view.
BMW i8 Spyder Concept: Review (2/2)