.jpg?p=120522_05:21)
.jpg?p=120522_05:22)
.jpg?p=120522_05:23)
.jpg?p=120522_05:24)
.jpg?p=111221_03:51)
Good news! BMW is set to build a version of the sensational Vision EfficientDynamics sportscar from 2013.
The German car maker today launched its new sub-brand, called ‘i', which focuses on ‘sustainable mobility solutions'; read ‘electric/hybrid' cars. Under this banner, BMW will build two models from 2013, the i3 and i8.
See some teaser pics of the new BMW i models
The i3 - known as the Megacity Vehicle - will be BMW's first solely electric powered series production car, using a setup derived from the one currently being tested on the Geneva ActiveE concept. That car - a 1-Series coupe - features 170bhp and a 0-62mph time of nine seconds together with a 100-mile range.
The i8 will be based on the stunning VED supercar first shown in 2009, and will feature a plug-in hybrid setup to provide big performance and small-car emissions. Don't forget, that concept hit 62mph in 4.8 seconds, returned 75mpg and produced just 100g/km of CO2.
See pics of the stunning VED concept sports car
Both will feature an aluminium chassis construction, labelled ‘LifeDrive', housing the powertrain, together with lightweight carbon-fibre reinforced plastic, which BMW claims helps balance the weight of the batteries. "For our customers this means superior driving dynamics combined with significantly increased range using electric power", explained a BMW spokesperson.
The i3 and i8 will be built at BMW's Leipzig plant, with over £336 million invested in new factory facilities.
Excited?
Open Car Bar
What do you think?
Want to comment on this?
Mark94 commented on this article
at 05:03 pm on 21 February 2011
If they turn out anything like the VED concept and I mean ANYTHING. They will definitely be a pin up car for years to come. BTW First.. :)
Link to this comment
Report this comment
You are about to report a comment for breaking our Code of Conduct.
Please note, we will not remove a post just because you disagree with what is being said.
This form can only be used for reporting a comment. If you want to contact us please go to our contact us page.
Topgearfan44 commented on this article
at 05:43 pm on 21 February 2011
Sweet! like the car
Link to this comment
Report this comment
You are about to report a comment for breaking our Code of Conduct.
Please note, we will not remove a post just because you disagree with what is being said.
This form can only be used for reporting a comment. If you want to contact us please go to our contact us page.
AlKim commented on this article
at 06:02 pm on 21 February 2011
The name is stupid beyond comprehension.
Link to this comment
Report this comment
You are about to report a comment for breaking our Code of Conduct.
Please note, we will not remove a post just because you disagree with what is being said.
This form can only be used for reporting a comment. If you want to contact us please go to our contact us page.
nHeroGo commented on this article
at 06:33 pm on 21 February 2011
I am so iTired of all iThings. Can the i-industry salesman take a vacation please.
Link to this comment
Report this comment
You are about to report a comment for breaking our Code of Conduct.
Please note, we will not remove a post just because you disagree with what is being said.
This form can only be used for reporting a comment. If you want to contact us please go to our contact us page.
Mikeado commented on this article
at 07:14 pm on 21 February 2011
It's a stupid name, but then as Mr. Clarkson said, it draws in the environmentalists. I'm guessing this is what the Mini E test cars were leading up to as well? I'll reserve excitement until the i8 appears.
Link to this comment
Report this comment
You are about to report a comment for breaking our Code of Conduct.
Please note, we will not remove a post just because you disagree with what is being said.
This form can only be used for reporting a comment. If you want to contact us please go to our contact us page.