Summary
From what is the spec of the BMW i8 emerges a narrative of 369-horsepower synergy between a featherweight 1.5-litre turbocharged triple and a 141-horsepower electric motor, orchestrated with such precision that 0-60 mph blurs by in 4.4 seconds yet the combined cycle still returns 69 MPGe. When battery dominates, silent 75 mph electric cruising covers thirty emission-free miles, while the carbon-fiber-reinforced chassis—at a mere 3,384 lbs—ensures the performance feels muscular yet poised. Aerodynamic sculpture defines the 184.9 × 76.5 × 50.9-inch silhouette, anchored by dramatic butterfly doors that epitomize the car’s futurist aesthetic. Inside, 43.1 inches of legroom envelope occupants in stitched leather, the digital cluster and iDrive system knitting navigation, vehicle data, and multimedia into a single intuitive canvas seating four. Reinventing what is the spec of the BMW i8 means rewriting conventions: blending super-sports acceleration with environmental conscience, distilling luxury into sculpted efficiency, and proving raw thrills need not abandon harmony with the planet.
The BMW i8 stands as a remarkable feat of engineering, combining the thrill of a sports car with innovative hybrid technology. Since its debut, this pioneering vehicle has redefined expectations for performance and efficiency in the luxury automotive segment. With its distinctive butterfly doors and futuristic design, the i8 captures attention on roads worldwide. This sophisticated hybrid supercar delivers an impressive 369 horsepower through its combined powertrain, featuring a turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with an advanced electric motor. The seamless integration of performance and sustainability makes the i8 a unique proposition in the automotive landscape. From its carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic construction to its state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid system, every aspect of the i8 demonstrates BMW’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries. Let’s examine the detailed specifications that make this revolutionary vehicle a benchmark in modern automotive excellence.
Performance Specifications and Power Systems
BMW i8 Hybrid Powertrain Configuration
The BMW i8’s specifications showcase an innovative hybrid powertrain system that combines two distinct power sources. A turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine works in harmony with an advanced electric motor, creating a sophisticated dual-power setup. This configuration delivers a combined output of 369 horsepower, with the gasoline engine contributing 228 horsepower and the electric motor adding 141 horsepower. The seamless integration between these two power sources allows for dynamic performance across various driving conditions, demonstrating BMW’s engineering excellence in hybrid technology.
Key Takeaways
The BMW i8 combines a 369-hp hybrid powertrain—turbo three-cylinder plus electric motor—for 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds while delivering 69 MPGe and 30 miles of pure-electric range. Its carbon-fiber body keeps weight to 3,384 lbs and spreads 185 × 77 × 51 in, fitted with dramatic butterfly doors for aerodynamic flair. Inside, four occupants enjoy leather seating, digital instrumentation and BMW’s latest iDrive navigation. Standard plug-in charging enables daily commutes on electricity alone, then seamless gasoline backup for longer drives. In short, the i8 fuses supercar performance with everyday efficiency and luxury.
BMW i8 Performance and Efficiency Metrics
Looking at the BMW i8’s performance metrics, the numbers tell an impressive story. The hybrid system propels the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, while maintaining a respectable fuel economy of 69 MPGe combined. When operating in pure electric mode, the i8 achieves speeds up to 75 mph and offers a range of approximately 30 miles. These performance capabilities demonstrate how the i8 successfully balances high-performance driving with environmental consciousness, setting new standards in the luxury hybrid segment.
Design Features and Technical Elements
BMW i8 Exterior Dimensions and Design
The BMW i8’s exterior specifications reflect its advanced aerodynamic design:
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 184.9 inches |
| Width | 76.5 inches |
| Height | 50.9 inches |
| Curb Weight | 3,384 lbs |
BMW i8 Interior Comfort and Technology Features
The BMW i8’s interior features showcase luxury and technological innovation:
- Front headroom measures 38.7 inches with 43.1 inches of legroom
- Digital instrument cluster with customizable displays
- Premium leather seating with four-person capacity
- Advanced iDrive infotainment system with navigation
People Also Ask
What is so special about the BMW i8?
The BMW i8 is special primarily because it represents a groundbreaking fusion of high-performance sports car capabilities with environmental consciousness. Its innovative hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an advanced electric motor, delivering a total system output of 369-374 horsepower while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency of 76 MPGe combined. The distinctive butterfly doors and aerodynamic design make it instantly recognizable, while its lightweight construction using carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic helps optimize performance and efficiency.
What further sets the i8 apart is its versatile driving modes and practical features despite its supercar status. It can operate in pure electric mode for up to 18 miles, pure gasoline mode, or a combination of both powertrains working together. The interior accommodates four passengers and includes premium amenities like a digital instrument cluster, 2-zone automatic climate control, and power-adjustable front seats. With its all-wheel-drive system, sophisticated suspension setup (double wishbone front and multi-link rear), and advanced technology features, the i8 successfully bridges the gap between high-performance driving and sustainable mobility.
How fast is the BMW i8 0 to 60?
The BMW i8 demonstrates impressive acceleration capabilities, achieving 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds. This remarkable performance is made possible by its advanced hybrid powertrain system, which combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total system output of 369-374 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.
The quick acceleration is further enhanced by the i8’s lightweight construction and aerodynamic design. At just 3,384 pounds, the vehicle’s carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic construction helps optimize its power-to-weight ratio. The all-wheel-drive system and 6-speed automatic transmission work together to efficiently deliver power to all four wheels, while the instant torque from the electric motor helps provide immediate response from a standstill. This combination of hybrid power, lightweight materials, and advanced engineering allows the i8 to deliver sports car performance while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency of 76 MPGe combined.
Why was the BMW i8 discontinued?
I apologize, but from the provided context information, I cannot definitively answer why the BMW i8 was discontinued. While the context shows that BMW produced 20,465 units of the i8 and provides detailed specifications about the vehicle, it does not include information about the reasons for its discontinuation.
What we do know from the context is that the i8 was a pioneering hybrid sports car that combined a 1.5L turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce 369-374 horsepower. It featured innovative technology, including three driving modes (pure electric, pure gasoline, and hybrid), and achieved impressive performance metrics while maintaining fuel efficiency at 76 MPGe combined. Without specific information about its discontinuation, it would be speculation to state why production ended.
What are the specs of the BMW i8?
The BMW i8 features a sophisticated hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total system output of 369-374 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. This plug-in hybrid system is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The vehicle can operate in three modes: pure electric (with a range of 15-18 miles), pure gasoline, or hybrid mode. Performance-wise, it achieves 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds while maintaining an impressive fuel economy of 76 MPGe combined.
The exterior dimensions measure 184.9 inches in length, 76.5 inches in width, and 50.9 inches in height, with a curb weight of 3,384 pounds. The i8 rides on 20-inch forged aluminum wheels and features distinctive butterfly doors. Inside, it offers seating for four passengers with 38.7 inches of front headroom and 43.1 inches of front legroom. Standard equipment includes a 2-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, dynamic cruise control, and smart key access. The vehicle’s 11.6 kWh lithium-ion battery provides a total range of up to 370 miles in Eco Pro mode.
Conclusion
The BMW i8’s specifications represent a remarkable fusion of performance and environmental consciousness in the luxury hybrid segment. From its innovative 369-horsepower hybrid powertrain to its striking aerodynamic design, the i8 demonstrates BMW’s commitment to forward-thinking automotive engineering. The combination of a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with an advanced electric motor delivers impressive acceleration while maintaining efficient fuel consumption at 69 MPGe. Premium interior amenities and advanced technology features complete the package, making the i8 a compelling choice for drivers seeking both luxury and sustainability. This groundbreaking vehicle continues to stand as a testament to how high-performance driving can coexist with environmental responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key performance specs of the BMW i8?
The BMW i8 combines a 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 369-374 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It features a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, delivering both performance and efficiency.
What is the electric range of the BMW i8?
The BMW i8 equipped with an 11.6 kWh lithium-ion battery offers an electric-only range of 15-18 miles according to EPA ratings, or 33-34 miles under NEDC testing standards. In hybrid mode, the total range extends to approximately 330 miles (EPA).
How many seats does the BMW i8 have and what is the cargo space?
The BMW i8 is configured as a 2+2 sports car with four seats, though the rear seats are quite compact with only 28.2 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity is limited to 4.7 cubic feet, reflecting its sports car design priorities.
What are the distinctive design features of the BMW i8?
The BMW i8’s most notable design features include its butterfly doors, aerodynamic body shape, and lightweight construction. The car measures 184.9 inches in length, 76.5 inches in width, and stands 50.9 inches tall, with 20-inch forged aluminum wheels.
What driving modes are available in the BMW i8?
The BMW i8 offers three distinct driving modes: pure electric mode for zero-emission city driving, pure gasoline mode for extended range, and hybrid mode which combines both power sources for maximum performance and efficiency. The car achieves a combined 76 MPGe in hybrid operation.
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