Set to make its debut later this month at the Beijing Motor Show, the BMW i8 Spyder makes waves as a gasoline-electric hybrid sports car. This eco-supercar follows the initial concept of the BMW i8 Coupe introduced in 2011 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
The BMW i8 Spyder provides an open-top version of the carbon-fiber-intensive i8 line. The aerodynamic exterior and lightweight design create exceptional fuel efficiency. BMW is holding to claims that the combined city/highway fuel economy of the i8 Spyder is an impressive consumption of up to 78 MPG, run almost entirely in electric mode. The turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder direct-injection engine delivers up to 223 horsepower while being supported by a 131-horsepower electric motor to create a total system output of 354-horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.
The i8 Spyder is a full hybrid and capable of running on electric power, gasoline, or a combination of both. It also can run in front, rear, or four-wheel drive depending on which power source is used. The BMW i8 Spyder is scheduled to hit showrooms in 2014.
