i8
The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW, produced from 2014 to 2020. It combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 362 horsepower and 570 Nm of torque. This configuration enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. The i8 is available in two variants: the Coupe and the Roadster, the latter launched in 2018. Both models feature BMW eDrive technology, offering an electric range of 53 km for the Coupe and 53 km for the Roadster according to the NEDC cycle. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Variants by year
2018
2014
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW, produced from 2014 to 2020. It combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 362 horsepower and 570 Nm of torque. This configuration enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. The i8 is available in two variants: the Coupe and the Roadster, the latter launched in 2018. Both models feature BMW eDrive technology, offering an electric range of 53 km for the Coupe and 53 km for the Roadster according to the NEDC cycle. (press.bmwgroup.com)
History
The BMW i8 was first introduced in 2009 as the Vision EfficientDynamics concept. This concept evolved into the BMW i8, unveiled in 2013 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Production began in 2014, with deliveries to customers in the United States starting in August 2014. In 2017, BMW introduced the Roadster variant, offering an open-top driving experience while maintaining the performance and energy efficiency of the Coupe version. Production of the BMW i8 concluded in June 2020, marking the end of an era for this iconic model. (en.wikipedia.org)
Generations
The BMW i8 was produced in two main variants: the Coupe and the Roadster. The Coupe was launched in 2014, offering a sporty driving experience with an aerodynamic silhouette. In 2018, BMW expanded the lineup with the Roadster, a convertible version that retains the Coupe's performance while providing an open-air driving experience. Both models share the same plug-in hybrid technology, combining a gasoline engine and an electric motor for optimal performance. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Key differences
The main differences between the Coupe and the Roadster lie in the roof configuration and cargo space. The Roadster features a soft-top roof that opens and closes in 15 seconds, even while driving up to 50 km/h, providing a convertible driving experience. This roof design reduces the cargo space behind the seats but allows for open-air driving without compromising performance. In contrast, the Coupe has a rigid roof offering better acoustic insulation and increased cargo capacity. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Photo recognition
To identify a BMW i8, look for its distinctive silhouette with butterfly doors and an aerodynamic body. The front headlights have a unique shape, often accompanied by LED daytime running lights. The 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels are also characteristic. The 'i8' badges are placed on the front fenders and rear of the vehicle. Roadster models feature upward-opening doors, similar to the Coupe. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Important versions
Key versions of the BMW i8 include the Coupe launched in 2014 and the Roadster introduced in 2018. These models were produced until 2020, offering exceptional performance and advanced hybrid technology. The total production of the BMW i8 amounted to 20,465 units, including 16,581 Coupes and 3,884 Roadsters. (en.wikipedia.org)
References
- The new BMW i8 Roadster, the new BMW i8 CoupeBMW Group
- BMW i8 EPA Rating: 15 Miles Electric Range, 76 MPGe, 28 MPGBMWBLOG
- https://www.bimmerfile.com/2013/08/06/bmw-releases-the-first-i8-specifications/bimmerfile.com
- https://www.bimmerfile.com/2014/04/26/the-bmw-i8-the-official-launch/bimmerfile.com
- https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/topic/13058/bmw-i8press.bmwgroup.com
- https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/middle-east/article/detail/T0276946EN/the-new-bmw-i8-roadster-the-new-bmw-i8-coupepress.bmwgroup.com
- https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/latin-america-caribbean/article/detail/T0276654EN/the-new-bmw-i8-roadster-the-new-bmw-i8-coupe?language=enpress.bmwgroup.com

