After the heartening response of i8 Coupe and i3 city car, BMW’s ‘i’ division contributes to future of mobility with the addition of i8 Spyder. With this concept, BMW gives a glimpse of what the ‘alternate fuel’ powered final product will appear like.
Following the design cues of the i8 Coupe, the i8 Spyder features plug-in Hybrid drive powered by a 131 hp electric motor in the front, while the rear is powered by a mid-mounted three-cylinder 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that pumps 223 hp.
The plug-in hybrid is powered by a lithium-ion battery that can do 30 km on a full charge of less than two hours. Moreover, BMW suggests the petrol motor gives a fuel-economy of over 33 kmpl. In support with the gasoline engine, the final output of the i8 Spyder is 354 hp and 550 Nm torque; while it can do a dead to 100 kmph in 5 seconds, with a top speed of 250 kmph.
On the outside, the i8 Spyder is slightly shorter in terms of length and wheelbase in comparison to its hardtop variant. Other visible improvements include scissor doors, ultra lightweight carbon fiber body and low center of gravity for improved driving dynamics.
BMW has bombarded the interior with state-of-the-art technology, including iPhone enabled finder that locates fuel stations, parking lots, etc on a 3D console. It also displays the range of the car and lets you select from eco-mode and sport mode for best driving experience. The car features an aggressive, progressive design with vertically hinged windowless doors and two seats.
The German automaker compares the performance of the drop-top i8 Spyder with a sports car, while delivering a fuel economy in comparison of a small car. BMW i8 Coupe and i3 city car debuted at last year’s Frankfurt auto show. This year, BMW will dazzle the world with the showcase of i8 Spyder at Beijing Motor Show, that is expected to go in production by 2015.
