BMW marks the next step on efficient driving with the BMW i8 in France

AT a driving event at the BMW Group’s Miramas test track in France, the BMW i brand presented a prototype of its second production vehicle, the BMW i8.

This plug-in hybrid model extends the basic BMW i philosophy of sustainability to a new vehicle segment, according to the manufacturers.

The BMW i8 was designed from the outset as a plug-in hybrid sports car, with the emphasis on agile performance and outstanding efficiency.

A compact three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology is combined with an electric drive system and a lithium-ion battery which can be recharged at a standard household power socket.

The plug-in hybrid’s dynamic personality is stressed by a long bonnet, conspicuous aerodynamic features, an elongated roofline, short overhangs and a 2+2-seater design.

The BMW i8 is an example of lightweight design as it uses the high-tech material CFRP, which also offers improved strength.

The rigorous application of the lightweight design strategy even extends to aluminium screws and bolts, which are around 45 per cent lighter than corresponding steel components.

The driver of the plug-in hybrid can use the Driving Experience Control switch, a familiar feature of the latest BMW models that allows you to choose from different driving modes.

From COMFORT to ECO mode, the driving mode selected at a given moment is indicated to the driver on the programmable instrument cluster by a distinctive colour and by a different, mode-specific set of driving information.

The hybrid system thus marks the next step in the evolution of the Efficient Dynamics programme, whose aim is to significantly improve both the performance and the efficiency of new BMW Group models.

This technology will subsequently find its way into the vehicles of the BMW Group’s core brands, the manufacturers announced.

Price and release date are to be confirmed.