BMW i8: First official images

Updated
BMW i8: First official images
BMW i8: First official images

The first images of the production spec BMW i8 have been leaked online, prior to the car's official unveiling at the Frankfurt motor show on September 10.

The pictures show a car which largely remains faithful to the now familiar concept version, though without the glass doors and a less elongated profile, which sits slightly higher off the ground.

The doors themselves are dihedral units, similar to those fitted to the forthcoming McLaren P1 hypercar.

Inside, the i8 is fitted with familiar BMW switchgear, including the sculpted gear selector and iDrive controller. Unique items include a digital dashboard display and a newly designed three-spoke steering wheel.

BMW i8: First official images
BMW i8: First official images


Despite being endowed with just a 1.5-litre petrol engine, the use of plug-in hybrid technology means BMW is making some bold performance claims for its electric flagship.

With a combined power output of 357bhp from both the petrol engine and on-board electric motor, the claimed 0-62mph time is 4.5 seconds – enough to rival most modern conventional sports cars.

Despite the performance on offer, the car's lithium-ion battery pack will allow it to travel for up to 22 miles on electricity alone, making for astonishing official fuel economy and CO2 figures of 113mpg and 59g/km respectively.

BMW has also released a teaser video of the i8, which you can watch below.

Advertisement