BMW's Top Secret Plan For An All Electric i8 Uncovered - Can They Out Tech Tesla?

BMW’s i division will build a prototype battery-powered i8 which could result in the sleek coupé switching from a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain to fully electric propulsion in the future.

The secret programme will give the i8 a significantly larger battery and a trio of new high-revving electric motors in place of the hybrid system it uses today. The move comes as BMW i division seeks to ramp up its research operations ahead of a confirmed expansion of its existing two-model line-up around the turn of the decade.
 

GermanNut - 6/23/2016 3:00:39 PM

+1 Boost

The BMW i8 is already a sales disaster. Making it less practical won't help increase sales.

MDarringer - 6/23/2016 6:19:55 PM

0 Boost

If the i8 had been a $50K mass market product, it would have been successful.

MrEE - 6/23/2016 6:03:57 PM

+3 Boost

German makes have a lot of ground to catch-up.

pepito66 - 6/24/2016 6:33:26 AM

+2 Boost

Great car , BMW always has something hide under the sleeve for sure.

mini22 - 6/25/2016 7:18:19 PM

+1 Boost

I think BMW is going in the wrong direction with this car. I would keep it hybrid with a larger more powerful (perhaps 4 cylinder from Mini. Maybe from the JCW). As a sports car it should have a decent engine noise. Then I would put better wheels and tires on it so it could at least approach Porsche 911 in handling. I think electric cars should be 4dr sedans. Then you are competing directly with Tesla.