Despite recent reports, the bosses in Munich have not ruled out a successor to the first generation BMW i8 hybrid sportscar. In fact, the second-generation i8 project is being currently evaluated, but it remains to be seen whether it gets greenlit and what type of drivetrain it will receive.
There are two obvious choices: one would be the current tech with a plug-in hybrid architecture but with improved power delivery and electric range, while the alternative would be a fully electric i8 which could take on the highly-touted hypercars.
Its design will also be just as futuristic and exciting as the current model, likely with its own design language that will make it stand out among the other BMWs. The i subdivision’s design chief – Domagoj Dukec – is known for its bold approach so expect to see a car that will take us well into the future when it comes to lines and tech used.
When the BMW i8 first debuted in 2014, it was a revolutionary design. It was the first mid-engine car to offer a carbon fiber passenger cell and a hybrid powertrain at anywhere near its price point. At the time, if you wanted another mid-engine, carbon fiber plug-in hybrid, you’d have to go with the million-dollar McLaren P1. The BMW i8 was just north of $100,000.
Fast forward a few years and the i8 is still fantastic looking and it never lost its spaceship feel. It has also received a mild refresh this year that brings the quality of its interior to a higher level.
If approved, the new i8 will debut certainly after 2020 and it will be included in the 25 electric cars strategy outlined several times by BMW.
