From recent spy shots and renderings, we can tell that the BMW i8 Spyder will cease to be a prototype and make it into production very soon. From the shorter wheelbase and more realistic bodylines, it may finally appear like something that belongs to today’s roads.
Sonny Lim, former senior designer for BMW DesignWorks, revealed some renderings of the i8 Spyder, before it’s unveil at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show.
Powering the BMW i8 Spyder is an electric motor, capable of a good 131 hp. Supporting the electric power plant is a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine, pumping out 220 hp peak power and 221 lb/ft peak torque torque. The combined hybrid drive gives out as much as 349 hp max power and 405 lb-ft of torque, pulling the i8 Spyder from dead to 100 kmph within 4.9 seconds. It is claimed to reach speeds up to 250 kmph.
The driver is allowed to choose from three modes of driving – pure-electric, gasoline or a combi. The 1500 kg car can drive over 30 km on a single charge of the lithium-ion battery pack. On support from the gasoline drive, the i8 Spyder can push as much as 600 km.
BMW will be unveiling its new i8 Spyder at the Beijing Motor Show at China International Exhibition Center that will commence from 23 April all the way up to 27 April. The BMW i-concept first appeared at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show and the production model will go on sale from 2014, while the BMW i8 Coupe will go on sale as a 2013 model.