The BMW i8 Roadster Review

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The BMW i8 REVIEW

New in 2014, the BMW i8 continues, like a fine wine, to get better with age. A fully realized part of the BMW lineup, the i8 Roadster with eDrive, combines zero emission drivability, high-performance and an al-fresco driving experience in one well-designed package.

BMW initially designed prototypes of the i8 as concept cars and showed them off in their display hall of the biennial Frankfurt Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany. The show, which happens to be the largest in Europe, has manufacturers vying for the most over-the-top display areas. This particular year was no different and included a ¼ mile circuit on which the company showed off by driving concept versions of their electric vehicles around the circuit, including models which foreshadowed what would become the BMW i8. A few years later, the i8 was introduced and the rest is history.

eDrive and more.

 

The BMW i8 is powered by a dynamic duo comprised of a BMW TwinPower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder gas engine, and a hybrid synchronous electric motor powering the front axle. The traditional gasoline engine produces 228 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the electrical power generator manages 141 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Combined, the two team up for 369 horsepower and up to 18 miles using pure electric power from the i8’s battery cells.

The new, higher capacity battery cells enable pull-away speeds up to 65 miles per hour purely from the electric power generator, while after pushing the eDrive button inside the i8’s cockpit, it increases to 75 mph. Combined, the 369 horsepower allows the i8 Roadster to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds. The BMW i8 has an electronically-capped top speed of 155 mph.

Sports Car of the Future.

The BMW i8 2+2 hybrid electric vehicle has been a technological trailblazer since 2014. Its aluminum Drive module combines powertrain, high-voltage battery, crash, structural and suspension systems all together within a basic structure, while the Life module forms a passenger cell made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). Its lightweight construction and low center of gravity results in a hybrid sports car that is beyond compare.

From its gull-wing doors to its high-tech battery and electrical system, to its elegant profile, it’s cliché but looks fast even while standing still.

The i8 Roadster is available with a cloth top or an all-electric convertible roof with extra soundproofing that helps to keep extraneous noise to a limit.

Innovation throughout.

The BMW i8 is designed with sustainability in mind. As a result, it incorporates many cutting-edge techniques in chassis engineering and safety. These factors combine to provide the ultimate drive experience.

The BMW i8’s interior is also progressively designed, and features a sport steering arrangement with multifunctional instrument display panel with a wide variety of upholstery choices. When using the Navigation system, the i8’s route is calculated to provide the most energy efficient route in getting to its destination with, hopefully, some battery charge left over.

Charged up!

Charging the new BMW i8 Hybrid-Electric vehicle is easier than ever using the BMW TurboCord electric vehicle charger. This premium charging solution provides drivers with the ultimate charging device using flexible dual-voltage (120v/240v) capability and the ability to charge nearly three times faster than before.

 

As a result, your Ultimate Driving Machine will be able to give you a charge, too.

BMW i8 Roadster Specifications:

Type:                                  2-seat, 2-door roadster

Gas Engine:                       1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine

Horsepower:                     228 @ 5,800 rpm

Torque:                              236 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm

Electric Motor:                  Front Axle Drive

Peak Power                       129 horsepower

Torque:                              184 lb-ft of torque

Cumulative Power:           357 horsepower

Electrification:                    PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)

Transmission:                    Aisin six-speed automatic transmission

Steering:                             Electric Power Steering system

0-60 mph:                           4.4 seconds

Top Speed Electrical:        75 mph

Top Speed Combined:     155 mph

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