We’ve all caught a minor glimpse of the BMW i8 Hybrid Concept. And it’s an absolute beauty. The sultry gas-electric vehicle looks to be the first of its kind, combining “miniscule emissions and high performance” into one supercar. We might have to wait a minute before BMW brings the i8 to a showroom near you, but according to CAR, the wait might not be so long. The auto site claims we should see the eco-friendly stunner in 2014, while unveiling several new specs.
Warning: Don’t get too excited over the i8’s mechanics. From what we’re hearing, it’s set to sport a powertrain running on a 170-hp electric motor that powers the front wheels, along with a 1.5 liter turbo inline-three generating 223-hp and 295 lb-ft for the rear. Combined together, they push about 393-hp, helping accelerate the car from 0 to 60 at an estimated 5 seconds. The i8 is said to hit a top speed of 155 mph. In addition, the electric motor should be able to provide 20 miles via full charge. Not bad overall.
Expect the futuristic hybrid to hit the market priced at $150,000, with BMW aiming to sell 10,000 yearly. That’s a high, but reasonable sales goal. Price point aint to bad neither. Let’s see if the BMW i8 Hybrid concept makes a special appearance at the 2012 NY Auto Show in two weeks.
