by: Ray

BMW’s new electric sub-brand BMWi indroduces a 2 seater roadster version of its’ new i8 Concept Sypder. This marks the second concept introduction after the hardtop i8 2+2 supercar. Like the i8 Concept, the i8 roadster is built in a very efficient and environmentely friendly way. It’s performance of a super car that requires small car fuel consumption.

BMWi’s LifeDrive architecture that works in conjunction with an advance lightweight modular construction. The i8 uses very light, but super strong advanced carbon fiber reinforced plastic occupant structure along with aluminum drive-train and chassis components. That keeps the weight down, which in-turn works to offset the mass that the electric hybrid drive system would add to the overall mass of the car.

Architecture and Technology:
LifeDrive is still in the concept stage. It houses the i8’s hybrid drive’s lithuim ion batteries in a tunnel that would be normally used as a transmission tunnel for rear-drive cars. BMW calls it the energy tunnel, which is position at a low center of gravity that joins the from and rear axles in an effort to maintain BMW’s 50:50 weight distribution.

Although it’s based on the i8 architecture, the Spyder has a shorter wheel base, and window-less upward swinging doors that pivot upwards on the A-pillars. The car is stuffed with gadgets, including a pair of electric scooters that are housed under a transparent trunk lid.

Smart Design:
The i8 Spyder features unmistakenly super car design, with it’s powerful stance, and small bumper overhangs. It sports large body distinct aerdynamicaly functional aerodynamic body panels and spoilers. As for the roof, a two-section roof is in the works for those bad weather days.

Advance Power-train:
The i8 Spyder is powered by a turbocharged 3-cylinder gasoline engine producting 223hp that sends the power to the rear wheels. It also uses, a 131hp electic dive motor to power the front wheels. The combination fo the two powertrains produces a total of 354hp that makes the i8 and all weather capable all wheel drive supercar. BMW claims i8 Spyder will accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5 seconds and all the way to an electronically limited 155 mph (250 km/h). Fuel consumption is at a staggering 94 mpg combined in ECO PRO mode. The i8’s flexible powertrain can run on front, rear, or all wheel drive modes depending on the computer’s calculations for maximizing efficiency.

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