The new BMW i8 will write history, at least in the Bavarian company’s books. That’s because it really is a true alternative to traditional sport cars that rely on naturally aspirated engines that aren’t exactly the cleanest in the world.
Sure, the pedal response and the feelings you get behind the wheel of some of them are out of this world but we need to realize that soon, the planet won’t be able to cope with the pollution were creating anymore.
Furthermore, a recent study by British Petroleum showed that in around 50 years we’ll run out of petrol. What then? Maybe all electric cars are not the answer but reducing the fuel consumption of every car could prolong our enjoyment.
That’s what the i8 is offering. Unlike every hypercar out there, it’s hybrid drivetrain is made up of a small turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine at the back and an electric unit up front. Together, they make 362 HP and 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque, plenty for any enthusiastic driver to get his share of adrenaline.
You’ll get to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds, you have all-wheel-drive at your disposal and the looks to kill. What more could you wish for?
Sure, a faster acceleration time is always more impressive but is it worth 6 times more? The i8 starts just over $136,000 in the US while other cars that use the same configuration will set you back around one million. With 121 mpg (2.1 l/100 km), it’s hard to beat this model.
It all looks good on paper and in theory, but how is the i8 in real life? Check out the video below to see for yourself.
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