BMW displayed today at the Paris Motor Show the BMW i8 Spyder Concept. The Spyder Concept is a two-seater, open top variant with the same architecture but with a lot more curb appeal. Among the most eye-catching features of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder are the upward-swivelling, windowless doors.
The i8 Spyder uses the same LifeDrive architecture as the i8, a carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) Life module that gives the car an extremely lightweight passenger cell, while the Drive modules – made primarily from aluminum components – bring together all the car’s operational driving functions, such as the powertrain, chassis and safety structure.
The i8 Concept Spyder is a plug-in hybrid powered by an eDrive drivetrain combining a high-performance electric motor and an internal combustion engine. The lithium-ion battery supplying the motor with power can be recharged in an extremely short space of time from any domestic power socket. Together, the car’s minimized weight, low center of gravity and finely judged balance, coupled with a combined system output of up to 354 horsepower.
Weighing just 3,600 lbs, the i8 Spyder runs to 100 km/h (62 mph) in five seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The fuel consumption is rated at 3 liter per 100 km or 78 MPG.
Compared with the Coupe variant of the BMW i8 Concept, the BMW i8 Concept Spyder has a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length, but what makes the Spyder special is the open air driving experience.
Just the Facts
3 Driving modes: electric, petrol, combination of the two
3-cylinder 1.5 liter petrol engine – 164kw
electric motor – 96kw
3 liter per 100 km / 78 MPG (US)
0 -100 km/h (62 mph) – 5.0 sec
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Weight: 1,630 kg – 3,600 lbs
Battery Charge Time – 1.45 hrs
Luggage storage – 100 liters
