BMW i8:
The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that was produced by the German automaker BMW from 2014 to 2020. It was first introduced as a concept car in 2009 and later unveiled as a production model at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The i8 was part of BMW’s “i” sub-brand, which focused on developing electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Here are some key features and specifications of the BMW i8:
Design:
The i8 has a futuristic and aerodynamic design with a low-slung body and butterfly doors. It combines a sleek appearance with sustainability-focused elements.
Powertrain:
The i8 features a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining an electric motor with a turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. The electric motor drives the front wheels, while the gasoline engine powers the rear wheels. The total power output is 369 horsepower, allowing the i8 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in around 4 seconds.
Battery and Range:
The i8 is equipped with a lithium-ion battery pack that provides an all-electric range of approximately 15 to 20 miles (24 to 32 kilometers). The battery can be charged through a conventional power outlet or using a dedicated BMW i Wallbox charger.
Fuel Efficiency:
As a plug-in hybrid, the i8 offers impressive fuel efficiency. When operating in hybrid mode, it has an estimated fuel consumption of around 76 miles per gallon equivalent (3.1 liters per 100 kilometers).
Driving Modes:
The i8 offers different driving modes to suit various driving conditions and preferences. These modes include Comfort, Eco Pro, and Sport. In Comfort mode, the i8 balances performance and efficiency, while Eco Pro mode prioritizes energy-saving. Sport mode delivers maximum power and responsiveness.
Carbon Fiber Construction:
The i8 utilizes lightweight materials, including carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for its passenger cell and aluminum for the chassis components. This construction helps to keep the weight low and enhance the car’s agility and efficiency.
Technology and Features:
The i8 incorporates various technological features, such as a heads-up display, a central information display, BMW’s I-Drive infotainment system, and advanced driver assistance systems.
It’s important to note that as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the production of the BMW i8 has been discontinued. However, it remains an iconic model that showcases BMW’s commitment to electric and hybrid vehicles.
BMW i8 model:
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the BMW i8 was available in two main variants:
BMW i8 Coupe:
This is the standard coupe version of the BMW i8. It features a two-door body style with seating for up to two passengers in the front and two small seats in the rear. The i8 Coupe offers a sporty and aerodynamic design, combined with the plug-in hybrid powertrain for a thrilling driving experience.
BMW i8 Roadster:
The i8 Roadster is a convertible variant of the i8 Coupe. It retains the same plug-in hybrid powertrain and performance capabilities but allows for open-top driving. The soft-top roof of the i8 Roadster can be electrically operated and retracts in just 15 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 31 mph (50 km/h).
It’s worth noting that BMW may have introduced additional special editions or updated versions of the i8 beyond my knowledge cutoff. For the most up-to-date information on the available models and configurations of the BMW i8, I recommend visiting the official BMW website or contacting a BMW dealership.
BMW i8 in USA:
The BMW i8 was available for purchase in the United States during its production years, from 2014 to 2020. The i8 received positive attention in the U.S. market due to its futuristic design, hybrid powertrain, and performance capabilities. The United States has been a significant market for luxury and performance vehicles, including electric and hybrid models.
In the U.S., the BMW i8 was sold through authorized BMW dealerships across the country. Potential buyers had the option to customize their i8 with various exterior and interior options, allowing for a personalized ownership experience.
It’s important to note that the availability of specific models, trims, and features may vary based on the model year and dealership location. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about the availability of the BMW i8 in the U.S., including any potential pre-owned or certified pre-owned options, it’s recommended to contact local BMW dealerships or visit the official BMW USA website.
BMW i8 Demand:
The demand for the BMW i8 was relatively strong, especially when it was initially introduced. The i8 garnered attention for its unique design, innovative hybrid powertrain, and performance capabilities. It appealed to car enthusiasts who were interested in a high-performance sports car with eco-friendly features.
The demand for the BMW i8 may vary based on factors such as market trends, availability of electric and hybrid vehicles, government incentives, and customer preferences. It’s worth noting that the i8 was produced for a limited time and had a niche market, given its relatively high price tag compared to other sports cars.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the current demand for the BMW i8, I recommend contacting BMW dealerships or referring to industry reports and market analysis specific to electric and hybrid vehicles.
BMW i8 Parts:
Here are some common parts associated with the BMW i8:
Body and Exterior Parts:
This category includes parts such as front and rear bumpers, fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, mirrors, grille, headlights, taillights, and other exterior trim pieces.
Powertrain Components:
The powertrain components for the BMW i8 include the gasoline engine, electric motor, battery pack, transmission, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system, and associated sensors and wiring.
Suspension and Steering Parts:
These parts include the suspension components like control arms, struts, springs, dampers, sway bars, and bushings. Steering parts consist of the steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump, and related components.
Brake System Parts:
The brake system parts encompass brake pads, brake discs/rotors, brake calipers, brake lines, brake master cylinder, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, and parking brake mechanisms.
Electrical and Electronic Components:
This category includes various electrical parts like the battery management system, charging system components, wiring harnesses, sensors, switches, relays, modules, and control units.
Interior Parts:
Interior parts consist of seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, carpeting, trim pieces, infotainment system components, steering wheel, pedals, and other interior accessories.
Cooling and HVAC System Parts:
These parts include the radiator, cooling fans, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) components, and associated hoses, pipes, and fittings.
Lighting and Electronics:
Lighting parts comprise of bulbs, LED modules, headlight assemblies, taillight assemblies, and other lighting-related components. Electronics parts cover items like audio systems, navigation systems, displays, and instrument clusters.
Wheels and Tires:
This category includes alloy wheels, wheel bolts, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors, and tires suitable for the BMW i8.
It’s important to consult a certified BMW service center or authorized parts retailer to ensure you’re purchasing genuine and compatible parts for your BMW i8.
Cost of BMW i8 in USA:
The pricing of the BMW i8 in the United States varied depending on the model year, optional features, and any special editions or packages available at the time of purchase. The following price ranges provide a general idea of the cost of a new BMW i8 in the U.S., but it’s essential to note that these figures are approximate and can change over time:
2014-2016 BMW i8 Coupe:
The starting price for the i8 Coupe in these model years ranged from around $135,000 to $140,000.
2017-2020 BMW i8 Coupe:
The starting price for the i8 Coupe in these model years was around $147,500 to $155,000.
2019-2020 BMW i8 Roadster:
The starting price for the i8 Roadster, the convertible variant, was higher than the coupe models, ranging from approximately $163,300 to $170,000.
It’s worth noting that these prices represent the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the base model of each respective year. Optional features, packages, and customization can significantly impact the final price of the vehicle.
Additionally, prices for pre-owned BMW i8 models can vary based on factors such as mileage, condition, and model year.
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information on the BMW i8 in the United States, I recommend visiting the official BMW USA website or contacting a local BMW dealership.
