BMW has announced their new BMW i8 Roadster at the LA Auto Show, the company also unveiled an updated version of their i8 Coupe. This marks a significant milestone for BMW as they continue to innovate and expand their lineup of hybrid sports cars.
The BMW i8 Coupe can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 4.4 seconds, while the new i8 Roadster has a 0 to 62 miles per hour time of 4.6 seconds. Although the Roadster is slightly slower, it offers the exhilarating experience of open-top driving, which many enthusiasts find appealing.
Advanced Engineering and Design
Like the new BMW i8 Coupe, the new BMW i8 Roadster is based on the LifeDrive vehicle architecture with an aluminium chassis and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell. This combination ensures a lightweight yet incredibly strong structure, enhancing both performance and safety. The further optimized BMW eDrive technology employed in both models comprises a high-voltage battery with significantly expanded cell capacity and energy content, and an electric motor generating a higher peak output. The result is a noticeable increase in dynamic performance, operating range, and the amount of driving possible using purely the electric drive system.
The i8 Roadster features a soft-top roof that can be opened or closed in just 15 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 31 miles per hour. This adds a layer of convenience and flexibility, allowing drivers to adapt to changing weather conditions without having to stop the vehicle.
Enhanced Performance and Efficiency
The new i8 models are equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that works in tandem with an electric motor. This hybrid setup delivers a combined output of 369 horsepower. The electric motor alone produces 141 horsepower and can drive the car up to 18 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and city driving.
The high-voltage battery in the i8 Roadster has been upgraded to 11.6 kWh, compared to the previous 7.1 kWh. This increase in capacity allows for longer electric-only driving ranges and improved overall efficiency. The battery can be charged using a standard household outlet, a BMW i Wallbox, or public charging stations, providing multiple options for keeping the vehicle powered up.
You can find out more details about the new BMW i8 Roadster and Coupe over at BMW at the link below. The new roadster and coupe will launch in May 2018, as yet there are no details on pricing. However, given the advanced technology and premium features, it is expected that both models will come with a premium price tag.
Source BMW
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