BMW i8 Concept Spyder

BMW unveils convertible variant of plug-in hybrid sports coupe.

The BMW i8 Concept has officially lost its lid, as the Bavarian automaker’s fuel mileage masterpiece is being shown for the first time in convertible format. Intended to display BMW’s prowess when it comes to mpg-related technology, the i8 will be the range-topping model of the upcoming “i” brand. Additional vehicles in the range will include the i3, an electric-powered city car.

We’ve already spotted the i8 Coupe undergoing testing, wearing only minimal camouflage and looking almost identical to the concept version. BMW appears to be serious about expanding the range, even if the i8 will remain a niche product due a starting price that’s expected to be well over $100,000. A convertible version, if one does come to market, is likely to carry an even higher price tag.

Head-turning Looks.Hyper-miler Economy

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder has the same dramatic and flowing lines as the coupe, complete with a rollover bar that extends elegantly backwards to serve as the rear spoiler. As we’ve already noted with the i8 Coupe prototype recently spotted by our spy photographers, the doors swing upwards and forward, ensuring a touch of drama any time you exit or enter the vehicle. It’s a nice touch, and it’s good to see it being used in the drop-top variant.

Inside the Spyder’s 2-passenger cabin is a “layered” design with 3-dimensional displays, along with an exotic-looking mix of carbon fiber, leather and plastic surfaces. One notable piece missing from the design puzzle is the car’s top, or more to the point, whether it’s a removable hardtop or folds backwards somehow. There doesn’t appear to be an excess of stowage space in the i8 Spyder’s lean silhouette, so a folding top seems unlikely at this point.

Beneath the bodywork is the same all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid powertrain found in the i8 Coupe. This includes a 131-hp electric motor linked to the front wheels, along with a 223-bhp turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine coupled to the rears. The combined output of 354 hp is enough to motivate the i8 Convertible from 0 to 62 mph in 5.0 seconds, according to BMW. Top speed is reportedly 155 mph. The battery pack is located in the central tunnel, to ensure a 50:50 weight balance, and power can be routed to the front, rear, or all four wheels at the same time.

ike the i8 Coupe, when the lithium-ion batteries are fully charged the i8 Spyder has a pure electric driving range of approximately 19 miles. BMW states that the i8 can be recharged in less than two hours using a standard household outlet. A high-voltage alternator coupled to the gasoline engine provides extra power, or additional driving range, when needed. Look for the BMW i8 Coupe to arrive sometime in 2014, with the Spyder variant to follow shortly thereafter. Source: roadandtrack.com/future-cars/