A New Look at the BMW “i” Brand

These days, technology is soaring. Between our tablets, phones, and media devices we are connected to the world and everything has simply become easier. BMW has recognised this “i” concept and has built a car that not only appeals to our love of technology, but also our sense of responsibility to the environment around us.

The changes to the way BMW presents the car will begin happening this year with the introduction of the i3 city car. Not far behind it, however, is the launch of the i8 coupe in 2014. With this latter car, the idea behind it is to provide the ultimate sports car while offers drivers a vehicle that will run at about the same cost as a city car.

The i8 Concept Spyder

This BMW coupe is unique. It is a hybrid that can be plugged in and charge from any domestic power socket. It is powered by drive-train known as eDrive; this includes a combination of a three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric, turbocharged, high performance motor. The motor delivers power to the front wheels, while the petrol engine provides power to the rear of the car. With these BMW parts working together, along with the light weight of the car, drivers receive three big benefits:

• Fantastic acceleration

• A high speed that has been limited

• Fuel mileage of 94mpg

Car owners also have the ability to decide whether or not they want to drive the car using petrol or use its electric capabilities. While green thinking will dominate much of this choice, the distance driven and the time individuals have will also be a factor. When the car is in electric mode only, it can cover a distance of 19 miles on one charge. Recharging it takes less than two hours.

How Much Will it Cost?

While many of you are probably already reaching for your check books in anticipation of the new coupe’s arrival, it is important to understand that this car’s ability, its speciality car parts, and its benefits will play a big role when it comes to the price tag, which stands right now at £80,000. The true retail cost of this new “i” brand sports car will have to be seen when it debuts in 2014.

Is a Hybrid Right for You?

While purchasing a hybrid car like the i8 Concept Spyder may sound appealing, hybrid cars aren’t for everyone. Let’s take a look at a few factors that could help you identify whether this car is the right one for you.

• Carbon Footprint- While hybrid cars don’t eliminate your carbon footprint, they do reduce it quite a bit by relying on both petrol and a rechargeable battery. If you would like to do more to help your environment, this may be the car for you.

• Cost- With a hybrid, you should always expect to pay more than you would for a normal car. In fact, you can expect the price tag to be at least 20% higher than a basic model.

• Repairs- Because hybrid cars are made differently, it is sometimes more expensive to replace certain car parts related to the hybrid system, such as the battery. In most cases, however, repairing normal car parts and routine maintenance will cost the same, if not less, on a hybrid car.

Is a hybrid car right for you? Whether or not you’re interested in reducing your carbon footprint, the beauty and functionality of the new “i” brand from BMW is something to admire, and drivers will no doubt be waiting anxiously for new ideas from this car company in the future.