BMW has unveiled the final production version of the new i8 Roadster at the 2017 Los Angeles motor show and it’s stunning. Due to be released in Australia in 2018 the i8 Roadster is also joined by an updated BMW i8 Coupe. Both new plug-in hybrid models feature a further developed BMW eDrive technology, enabling longer range and more time in pure-electric mode.

The high-quality soft-top covers a large area and has a unique mechanism. All-electric roof opens and closes very quietly – at the touch of a button – in 15 seconds and while traveling at up to 50 km/h. The soft-top stows away in a space-saving perpendicular position, creating around 100 litres of additional storage space behind the seats.

According to BMW the i8 Roadster “represents an innovative expression of freedom: Open-top motoring in an uncompromisingly sporty two-seater, pressing the eDrive button enables virtually silent and locally emission-free driving at up to 120 km/h.”

Because of the soft top design there are model-specific body strengthening elements including new lightweight gullwing doors. Even the windscreen frame is made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic. The inherent weight penalty of the new i8 Roadster compared to the i8 Coupe is limited to just 60 kilograms.

Here are the main specifications of the 2 new models :-

• BMW i8 Roadster: BMW eDrive technology with hybrid synchronous electric motor, max. output: 105 kW/143 hp, max. torque: 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, capacity: 1,499 cc, output: 170 kW/231 hp, max. torque: 320 Nm (236 lb ft). Hybrid-specific all-wheel drive, combustion engine driving the rear wheels, electric motor driving the front wheels. Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 4.6 seconds, top speed: 250 km/h. Electric power consumption, combined: 14.5 kWh/100 km, petrol consumption, combined: 2.1 l/100 km, CO2 emissions, combined: 46 g/km. Electric range: 53 km (33 miles).
• BMW i8 Coupe: BMW eDrive technology with hybrid synchronous electric motor, max. output: 105 kW/143 hp, max. torque: 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, capacity: 1,499 cc, output: 170 kW/231 hp, max. torque: 320 Nm (236 lb-ft). Hybrid-specific all-wheel drive, combustion engine driving the rear wheels, electric motor driving the front wheels. Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 4.4 seconds, top speed: 250 km/h. Electric power consumption, combined: 14.0 kWh/100 km, petrol consumption, combined*: 1.9 l/100 km, CO2 emissions, combined: 42 g/km. Electric range: 55 km (34 miles).

All figures relating to performance, consumption, emissions and range are provisional.

Credit: BMW Group