Some of our readers will remember the BMW i3 and i8 concept cars that we showed you a while back. Both models will be shown off at this week’s LA Auto Show, and both cars feature hybrid engines. These innovative vehicles represent BMW’s commitment to sustainable mobility and cutting-edge technology.
BMW i3: The Urban Electric Car
As a reminder, the BMW i3 will have around 170 horsepower and will have a top speed of 93MPH. This makes it an ideal vehicle for urban environments where high speeds are less critical, but efficiency and maneuverability are paramount. The i3 is designed with a lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) body, which not only enhances its efficiency but also ensures a robust and safe structure.
The i3’s electric motor is paired with a small gasoline engine that acts as a range extender, providing additional miles when the battery is low. This hybrid setup allows the i3 to offer the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range anxiety typically associated with them. The interior of the i3 is equally impressive, featuring sustainable materials such as recycled plastics, natural fibers, and responsibly sourced wood.
Moreover, the i3 comes equipped with advanced technology, including a high-resolution display for navigation and infotainment, as well as a suite of driver assistance systems. These features make the i3 not just an eco-friendly choice, but also a smart and convenient one for modern drivers.
BMW i8: The Futuristic Sports Car
The i8, on the other hand, is designed to be more of a sports car with a 0-60MPH time of under 5 seconds. This impressive acceleration is achieved through a combination of a powerful electric motor and a turbocharged gasoline engine. The i8’s hybrid powertrain delivers a total of 369 horsepower, providing thrilling performance while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency.
The i8’s design is nothing short of futuristic, with its sleek lines, scissor doors, and aerodynamic shape. The use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and CFRP further enhances its performance and efficiency. Inside, the i8 offers a luxurious and high-tech environment, with features like a digital instrument cluster, head-up display, and premium audio system.
In addition to its performance and design, the i8 also emphasizes sustainability. It can drive purely on electric power for short distances, making it suitable for zero-emission urban driving. When the gasoline engine kicks in, it works seamlessly with the electric motor to provide a dynamic driving experience.
There are no details yet on whether we will ever see these BMW concepts on our roads, but they certainly look interesting from the video. The i3 and i8 represent BMW’s vision for the future of mobility, combining sustainability with performance and luxury. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, concepts like these will likely play a crucial role in shaping the cars of tomorrow.
The LA Auto Show will provide a platform for BMW to showcase these innovative vehicles to the public, and it will be interesting to see how they are received. Whether or not these specific models make it to production, the technology and design principles they embody will undoubtedly influence future BMW vehicles.
Source Slashgear
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