Two BMWs were unveiled before a scrum of jetlagged journalists today; a little boxy car named the i3 Concept (previously known as the Megacity) and the i8, the Vision EfficientDynamics hybrid sports car that graced Road & Track’s cover in March of 2010. Rather than wait for the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show in September, BMW gave us a preview of all the electric mobility it is working on, with information on where the company is headed with all these batteries and electric motors.
BMW i8 Hybrid Concept
For starters, BMW has named its electric mobility models the ‘i’ series. An i3 is essentially the electric equivalent to a 328, and thus an i8 is similar to the old 840 coupe. Don’t be confused though; this doesn’t mean an i3 is at all like the 3 Series sedan we all love. What it means is this: The i3 has all the practicality of a 3 Series for around town usage, but with superior electric efficiency taking the place of its back road sportiness. Unlike the M models in the BMW world, the i models aren’t efficient derivatives of standard models. Instead, they are wholly conceived to be unique and focused around their new powertrains. Although the 3 and the 8 are both i models, they are quite different.
BMW i3 Concept
The i3, of course, is still a concept, but the reality of production is near. You might not be impressed, seeing how Nissan already sells the Leaf, an apparent direct competitor. But the Leaf weighs 3415 lb. almost 700 lb. more than the i3. Plus the i3’s electric motor produces 170 hp, 63 hp more than Nissan’s. It also powers the rear axle for better driving dynamics. It is, after all a BMW and should drive like it. We’ll have to get back with driving impressions in about a year.
Keep Reading: BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Hybrid Concept – First Look >>
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