Plug-in hybrid. Exceptionally lightweight, aerodynamically optimized body with cutting-edge BMW eDrive technology. Powered by a compact three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology is combined with an electric drive system and a lithium-ion battery which can be recharged at a standard household power socket. Total system output of 362 hp. It can operate solely on electric power, which means no tailpipe emissions, and offers the dynamic performance of a sports car, with an expected 0 - 60 mph sprint time under 4.5 seconds. (ultimatecarpage.com)
Update November 2017: The 2019 i*s will be updated with a new lithium-ion battery pack. Battery cell capacity is up from 20 to 34 ampere hours and gross energy capacity has been raised considerably from 7.1 kilowatt hours to 11.6. The result is a bump in the electric motor's output to 141 horsepower (up 12 hp) and the ability to more greatly rely on electric power while under way. BMW says the i8 Coupe will hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. (autoblog.com)
2014 I8 Concours d'Elegance Edition
This one-of-a-kind BMW i8 Concours d'Elegance Edition made a ritzy debut at Pebble Beach in August 2014. The most notable feature of the Concours d'Elegance i8 is its matte grey paint, known as Frozen Grey Metallic. Contrasting quite nicely with the i8's flat paint are its blue and white accents, and its Dalbergia Brown leather upholstery. Blue contrast stitching complements the interior aesthetic, as do the embossed BMW roundels in the headrests. It will also include a complimentary set of Louis Vuitton baggage and a "professional edition" charging station. Pending government approval, it's set to be the first vehicle in the US fitted with laser headlights. This car was sold $825,000 during Gooding and Company's auction after the showing. (autoblog.com)
(Photos from ultimatecarpage.com, netcarshow.com, autoevolution.com & autoblog.com)
2011 BMW i8 Concept
(Photos from motortrend.com, motorauthority.com, ultimatecarpage.com & autowp.ru)