TheBMW i8 Spyder conceptcontinues to impress andBMW are looking to target the changing needs of drivers with their latest concept offerings, while also focusing on sustainability. Initially BMW unveiled the i3 and i8 concept cars, now the i8 Spyder takes it one step further, adding a sporty element in an open-top 2 seater.

BMW i8 Spyder concept is a sporty and frugal vehicle

The BMW i8 Spyder is powered by a 96 kW electric motor as well as a turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine that produces 164 kW. Together the two engines generate around 260 kW of power along with a peak torque of 550 Nm. Performance wise, that allows the BMW i8 Spyder concept to complete 0-100km/h in just 5 seconds before topping off at 250km/h. Most impressive though is the fuel economy, which comes in at just 3 litres/100km, a truly impressive feat on a car with such power. The electric battery can be fully charged in only 2 hours from a standard power outlet and has a range of 30km on electric power alone.

Lightweight build for BMW i8 Spyder Concept

The passenger cell of the i8 Spyder is built with carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) to give it an extremely lightweight body, while the drive modules have been built with aluminum components. This use of light-weight high-tech materials in the construction of the i8 Spyder has created impressive structural rigidity and crash safety. This light-weight design also translates into the fuel consumption of the vehicle and has cancelled out the additional weight brought on by the hybrid drive train.

High-Tech gadgetry thrown into the mix

As can be expected from such an advanced car, there are a number of impressive features. The driver assistance features include a camera-based proactive collision warning system, a parking assistant and traffic jam assistant. The CarFinder system allows the driver to locate the vehicle in large car-parks using their smartphone. There are also a number of route-planning programs installed, including one that assists the driver with directions even on foot via their smartphone and even provides information on the parking availability at the destination.

The BMW i8 Spyder concept comes with a host of impressive features and provides insight into the future of hybrid cars.