Sports
BMW i8 | Plug In Hybird Sports Coupe
The BMW i8 is not just a car—it’s a symbol of innovation, luxury, and sustainability. This plug-in hybrid sports car delivers powerful performance while embracing electric efficiency. With its sleek aerodynamic design, butterfly doors, and advanced hybrid technology, the BMW i8 continues to turn heads long after its production ended in 2020
Key Highlights
- Iconic plug-in hybrid drivetrain with AWD
- Carbon fiber lightweight body
- 0–100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds
- Electric-only driving range up to 55 km
- Exclusive dihedral (butterfly) doors
BMW i8 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder (Gasoline) + Electric Motor |
| Power Output | Combined 369 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic (gas engine) + 2-speed automatic (electric) |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | Approximately 4.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited |
| Battery Capacity | 11.6 kWh lithium-ion |
| Electric-only Range | Up to 55 km (34 miles) |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | Approx. 76 MPGe / 2.1 L/100 km |
| Charging Time | Around 3 hours (Level 2 charger) |
| Body Material | Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) |
| Doors | Dihedral (Butterfly-style) |
| Seating Capacity | 2+2 (small rear seats) |
| Infotainment System | iDrive with Navigation, Bluetooth, and Voice Control |
| Wheels | 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels |
| Price (Approx.) | $147,500 USD (when last sold new) |
| Production Years | 2014 – 2020 |
| Notable Features | USD 147,500 (when last sold new) |
Why Choose the BMW i8?
- Combining performance and sustainability
- Still admired for its timeless design
- A rare collector’s item with premium features
Key Technological Features:
- Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain: Combines a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, offering dynamic power delivery and electric-only capability.
- Regenerative Braking: Converts braking energy into battery charge.
- BMW eDrive Technology: Optimizes electric motor and battery performance for efficiency and speed.
- Driving Modes:
- eDrive (Pure electric)
- Comfort
- Sport (maximum power delivery)
- Eco Pro (efficiency-focused)
Exterior Design
- Dihedral Butterfly Doors: Give a futuristic feel and ease of access.
- Aerodynamic Shape: Low drag coefficient (0.26) for enhanced speed and efficiency.
- Laser Headlights (Optional): Twice as powerful as LED with a 600m range.
- Iconic U-shaped LED tail lights.
- Color Options: Crystal White, Protonic Blue, Sophisto Grey, Frozen Black, and more.
Interior Comfort & Features
- Materials: Premium leather, recycled fibers, and lightweight trims.
- Digital Display Cluster: Fully digital gauges with hybrid-specific data.
- iDrive System: Touchscreen interface with rotary controller, navigation, voice command, and gesture control in later models.
- Sound System: Harman Kardon or optional BMW premium surround sound.
Driving Experience
- Balance: Perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
- Handling: Adaptive suspension, low center of gravity for excellent cornering.
- Quiet Ride: In eDrive mode, the car runs almost silently.
- Acceleration: Smooth torque delivery from the electric motor gives an instant punch off the line.
Ownership & Maintenance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles (BMW standard) |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Maintenance Costs | Higher than average (due to hybrid tech) |
| Insurance Cost | Expensive (luxury + hybrid classification) |
| Depreciation | Initially high, now stabilizing as a collector’s car |
| Availability | Only available used (production ended in 2020) |
Performance Summary Table
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| 0-100 km/h | 4.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (155 mph) |
| Electric Range | 55 km (approx. 34 miles) |
| Total Range (with fuel) | 500+ km |
| Combined Power | 369 hp |
| Torque | 570 Nm |
BMW i8 Legacy & Status
Though production stopped in 2020, the BMW i8 remains one of the most iconic hybrid sports cars ever built. It’s a collector’s item now and continues to be praised for its:
- Unique styling
- Eco-luxury positioning
- First-mover status in the electric sports segment