BMW i8 Spyder set to go into production

Remember the BMW i8 Spyder? We won’t blame you if you don’t, because the roadster version of BMW’s hybrid sportscar has been virtually relegated to the back pages ever since it was unveiled as a concept three years ago at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. But all is well now, for BMW has finally hinted that it is going to become a production reality soon. 

Speaking to German business newspaper, Handelsblatt, BMW CEO Harald Krüger confirmed the imminent arrival of the i8 Spyder, although he didn’t divulge any details on the vehicle’s timeline. 

The production BMW i8 Spyder is expected to mirror the concept closely, with a shorter wheelbase over its hardtop cousin and a wraparound front windscreen. However, the rear buttresses will probably have to be redesigned to fit an actual folding roof mechanism. And that stylish transparent boot cover will probably have to go, seeing as how impractical it is in reality.

Powertrain will likely remain the same as on the i8 coupe: a 1.5-litre TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder engine with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. In the coupe, this setup produces a combined maximum output of 362 PS, enabling it to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 4.4 seconds and hit a limited top speed of 250 km/h. Of course, being a hybrid, what’s more significant is the claimed efficiency figure of 2.1 l/100km.

Like we mentioned, Krüger declined to provide a more specific time frame, but it is probable that the i8 Spyder could be introduced next year as part of BMW's centennial celebrations. If that's the case, it will go on sale internationally as a 2017 model.