BMW's i8 Spyder Concept. Image: BMW Group
Still think that hybrids are boring and uninspired rides suitable for save-the-planet eco-geeks only? BMW may have you rethinking that with the reveal of its latest BMW i concept, the i8 Spyder. Like the i8 Coupe, the Spyder blends battery power with a fuel-efficient gasoline engine that serves as a generator. In battery mode, the i8 Spyder has a modest range of just 19 miles, however, like the Chevy Volt or the Fisker Karma, it can keep going as long as there’s gas in the tank.
BMW's i8 Spyder Concept. Image: BMW Group
While hybrids usually have a weight penalty thanks to redundant drivetrains, the i8 Spyder uses lightweight materials throughout to counter this. Better yet, weight distribution is an ideal 50:50 split for superior handling.
BMW's i8 Spyder Concept. Image: BMW Group
Like the i8 Coupe, the i8 Spyder can be driven in front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, as conditions dictate. While acceleration isn’t up to supercar standards, the i8’s 0-62 mph time of five seconds is certainly enough to keep the car entertaining, and it’s electronically governed to a top speed of 155 miles per hour.
BMW's i8 Spyder Concept. Image: BMW Group
More than just a Coupe with its roof hacked off, the Spyder features unique upward pivoting doors and rides on a slightly shorter wheelbase than the Coupe. It has a shorter overall length, too, enhancing the athletic look of the topless i8.
BMW's i8 Spyder Concept. Image: BMW Group
Inside, expect plenty of connectivity and infotainment options, including CarFinder (which transmits the exact location of your 18 to your smartphone), a charge point locator, route planning that factors in available public parking and even “Last Mile Navigation,” which sends precise walking directions to your smartphone after you park the car.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
