BMW I8 Concept - A Luxury Hybrid

For those familiar with the global automotive scene, then you will most likely know what a concept car is like. If not, then for your information, concept cars are essentially designs from the different car manufacturing companies that give us an idea on what to expect from cars in the future. Usually, the most intriguing concept cars come from the German and the Japanese car companies. This is because they are the ones who usually come up with the most realistic and the most captivating designs in the industry. One concept car that stands out from the rest is the BMW i8, also known as the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics. It is part of BMW's "Project i" and was initially unveiled in 2011 at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Project i is what BMW deems to be the next prominent hallmark in the company's already illustrious history. Its main objective is to introduce the new type of car, intent on revolutionizing the whole industry. The BMW i8, identified as new luxury car by many critics is expected to go into production by this year.

Exterior

Its exterior makes it one of the most dynamic looking concept cars. This futuristic looking car is made with the most advanced materials available. For instance, its chassis is made from super lightweight aluminum. Its sunroof, windows, as well as the windshield, is made from polycarbonate glass. The doors are totally transparent. This provides you with a clear view of the car's interior.

Interior

The BMW i8 is a coupe, and it can accommodate up to four people. There are two pairs of leather seats at the front and back. The control panels are arranged in such a way that it enables you to enjoy the power this sports car has while still remaining in complete control.

Features and Performance

The BMW i8 is an ecofriendly car that does not sacrifice practicality with performance. However, unlike the i3, the i8 concept was designed specifically for the sports car fanatic. Its performance is reminiscent of the top of the line sports car, yet it is still extremely fuel efficient. It can go from 0-60 in under 5 seconds (4.8 seconds to be exact). It has a top speed of 160 miles per hour. It also emits tremendously low amounts at 99 grams per kilometer. It has a fuel consumption rating of 70 mpg. This means that it consumes only 3 liters of fuel for every 100 kilometer. This is the most salient feature of this new breed of luxury car.

The i8 is a plug-in hybrid that comes equipped with a high performance 1.5 liter, 3 cylinder combustion engine. This engine packs 220 horsepower and 221 lb-ft torque. This monster of a machine works in perfect unison with the other two electric engines. The lithium ion battery can be charged using a power supply. This battery is what enables the car to travel up to 20 miles without any fuel on its tank. The complementary design between sports car elements and ecofriendly environmentalism is what defines the i8.

This high tech and ecofriendly luxury car will be made available for purchase by 2014.