i8 – Automobiles Review

Maxcklusiv reveals enhanted BMW i8

2018 Maxklusiv mbDESIGN BMW i8 Although BMW I8 is not the fastest or even the most powerful among other sports vehicles, but there are some thing that make it stand out from the rest – the refined three-cylinder engine system and the advanced and futuristic drivetrain systems. And one more thing – the ability to be revised, upgraded and enhanced. And this is what has caught the eye of the Buched-based tuning team Maxklusiv mbDESIGN.

The engineering team noticed different areas and aspects that could have been better and decided to make some touches here and there. For example, the vehicle now benefits from new bolted 9×21-inch and 10×201-inch KV3.3 rims in glossy black, wrapped by 245/30R21 and 255/30R21 Continental Sport Contract 6 tires. Behind the wheels there can be seen new braking system calipers in the same yellow color as the hubcab. And all this is based on the new fine-tuned suspension that contributes to more stability and more confident cornering.

2018 Maxklusiv mbDESIGN BMW i8

In terms of exterior styling, there’s one single core element: new full wrapping. Trendy at the moment, the vibrant “blue pepper” color from PWD Exclusive draws attention with its mellow tones and overall high quality execution. Furthermore, the elegance and sporty spirit of the vehicle is boosted by installing numerous black and carbon-fiber components: there are new carbon-fiber side rocker panels, carbon-fiber front spoiler lip and carbon fiber rear wing.

And last but not least, drivetrain system. As you might well expect, the vehicle has received some enhancements and additional power. There’s neat software optimization executed by PP Performance that brings more horsepower and overall better power distribution. Enjoy!

2018 Maxklusiv mbDESIGN BMW i8

Source: Maxclusiv mbDESIGN

September 13, 2018

GSC showcases a rather futuristic concept for the BMW i8 model

2016 German Special Customs BMW i8 BMW i8 Plug-in Hybrid was first revealed at the IAA back in 2013 and many people were disappointed, despite the wonderful design. Why? Because The whole design was left almost untouched to what was first revealed four years earlier. And here’s the tricky part: many were indeed disappointed, but there were these, who saw incredible opportunity.

“These” are indeed the tuning magicians from German Special Customs from Chemnitz. What they did is just incredible: not only the vehicle looks super-futuristic, but also it demonstrates numerous advanced drivetrain technologies. So, let’s see what exactly has been changed.

Exterior styling

2016 German Special Customs BMW i8

Breathtaking. This word is just enough to describe the body shape of this monster. It looks futuristic, aggressive, sporty and challenge-ready. Covered in charcoal-black finish with numerous carbon-fiber components, the i8 also showcases neat blue details: wheels, side lines, kidney-grille surrounds and accents at the massive back-end.

The wheel arches are filled with 8.0×22 and 9.0×22-inch two-piece COR International rims, while the sporty springs lower the overall vehicle height and contribute to more menacing stance and of course, to better handling.

Interior styling

2016 German Special Customs BMW i8

Fully resembling the exterior styling concept, the interior is also charcoal black-dominated. And let’s not forget about the same blue interior additions and components. They cover the sporty seats, slightly enhance the sporty steering wheel style and give that futuristic, yet stylish spark to the central console.

Definitely a bold step forward, GSC team decided to focus all of its energy entirely towards the visuals of the vehicle. And they did something incredible, don’t you think?

2016 German Special Customs BMW i8

Source: German Special Customs

September 20, 2016

BMW shows how to make a contemporary car truly rare with the i8 Celebration Edition

BMW i8 Celebration Edition side view This BMW i8 is so special that we will never see it. Unless we are among those 20, who will buy it… from Japan, because the limited anniversary model is intended only for this country. The idea behind the i8 Celebration Edition is to celebrate in the most exclusive way the 100^th anniversary of the Bavarian company. Carrying exclusive paint scheme, one-off interior and produced in strictly limited numbers, this machine does not need any additional individualization. Here is why.

Starting-off with the exterior, it surely makes an impression, that we have seen somewhere else this paint scheme. And we are 100% correct. The shade used for this i8 is called Protonic Red, while the accents are in Frozen Gray Metallic. The same combination was revealed back in February and debuted in Geneva a month later. See the link below if you don’t believe.

Other charming characteristics, which this time differentiate the car from the above mentioned are the 20-inch W-spoke light-alloys in a striking bi-color combination: Aluminum matte and Orbit Grey metallic. And this is all you need to know about the exterior. After all, a BMW must stay classy.

BMW i8 Celebration Edition interior

Inside, the cabin features the same contrast design philosophy and includes red contrasting stitching on the seats, floor mats (which by the way come with leather piping), carbon fiber accents and ceramic details on the gearshift lever.

Just in case you wonder (because the chances of buying it are very low), the i8 Celebration Edition is priced at ¥22,000,000 or around $197,945 USD.

Source: BMW

May 31, 2016

It is BMW Individual making these i8 more beautiful than ever

BMW Individual i8 Exterior Paint Programme front view BMW Individual is the least team you will expect to see involved in the i8 or any of the electric endeavors of the Bavarian company. However, it is exactly BMW Individual which will make your i8 like no other in the world.

The extending program of exterior paint finishes for the BMW i8 is now offering more than enough colors, which will put out the individuality of your i8 forefront. The benefit of having the BMW Individual collection is that you can now choose from a vast array of extraordinary paint finishes. They not only complete owner’s personality but also reflect their personal style.

Precisely, the new shades include Java Green, Speed Yellow, Solar Orange, Twilight Purple Pearl, Frozen Grey, Frozen Black, San Marino Blue and Grigio Telesto Pearl… well, the list isn’t over, but there isn’t enough space to do that (just kidding).

BMW Individual i8 Exterior Paint Programme side view

There is also a variety non-metallic, metallic or Xirallic finishes, which utilizes a mixture of synthetic mica or aluminium flakes to produce scintillating effects. How cool is that?

What is more (and more striking also, is the matt finish of the frozen paintwork. It is unique because of its shimmer, making the contours of the BMW i8 even more emphasized and underlining the sculptural character of the car. With the new and beautiful paint schemes BMW Individual is also adding the option of new Black W-Spoke alloy wheels, which are available as part of the programme.

BMW i8 is driven by a hybrid powertrain, which produces a total of 362hp (266 kW) and can also cover up to 23 miles in electric mode alone. The drivetrain also uses company’s Efficient Dynamics technology, thus releasing emissions of just 49g/km and delivering a combined consumption figure of 134.5mpg.

BMW Individual i8 BMW Exterior Paint Programme is currently available with immediate effect.

Source: BMW

May 25, 2016

X-Men: Apocalypse is here and so are the cars of your favorite characters! Check them out!

Wolverine Driving 1988 Toyota Hilux The “X-Men: Apocalypse” is probably one of the most awaited superhero movies this year and we are all hoping it is not a huge disappointment like “Batman vs. Superman”. The premiere of blockbuster-to-be movie is happening now and the hype is extremely huge. This was probably the reason for the appearance of these interesting renderings, which show what car models would the superheroes of X-Men drive. We would love to know your opinion about them, so make sure you leave a comment below. Is there anything unexpected you see or would you offer a better car for any of the characters?

Wolverine Driving the Nasty Toyota Hilux from 1988

If you have thought that the Wolverine would go for anything smaller, you would be wrong. The 1988 Toyota Hilux seems the perfect car for him with its rugged appearance and go-anywhere capabilities. In fact, in this rendering it almost looks indestructible… just like the protagonist played by Hugh Jackman.

As you can see, this Hilux isn’t ordinary, but it has a few extra features to help Wolverine in his duties. These include huge and custom-made wheels and retractable blades, which give him the strength and ferocity to destroy the enemies.

Magneto Driving a BMW M6 Coupe

Any questions? Who would say anything else if this is the choice of the mighty Magneto. The character played by Michael Fassbender has chosen the beautiful maroon BMW M6 Coupe, which looks almost as stylish and sexy as he does. The slick high-speed car jumps to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in mere 3.9 seconds, so he will have no trouble escaping any hard situation.

In this render, the body of the car is made from the same material as the helmet he wears, thus increasing his resistance to any incoming telepathy. In addition, he will sit behind a bulled prove glass (not that he needs it) and will ride his BMW on superior wheels.

Mystique’s Blue Skinned BMW i8

Mystique Driving BMW i8

Jennifer Lawrence is playing Mystique, and her character has chosen the electric BMW i8. Made of carbon-fiber, she’s even faster, more agile and ready to make her enemies regret that they are alive. With blue scaly skin and flashing yellow headlights her i8 is almost as beautiful as she is.

Charles Xavier Has Chosen the Tesla Model X

Charles Xavier Driving Tesla Model X

There is no other car than Tesla’s Model X that is perfect for Charles Xavier. James McAvoy’s character is science genius, who can not drive anything less than a vehicle made by a genius (like Elon Musk). He will also have no trouble accessing his spacious car, because of its double rear door entry. Sitting behind bullet proof windows he will manage the important duties and control the actions of the X-Men team.

Apocalypse’s Mercedes-AMG 63 6×6

Apocalypse Driving Mercedes-AMG 63 6x6

Apocalypse is the longest survivor of all the X-Men and this is why the vehicle chosen for this character is the six-wheeled Mercedes-AMG 63 6×6. Each Armour panel of this machine is intricately designed in art from another age. With these exaggerated wheels, the X-Men are set to destroy or finally save the world!

Cyclops Has Chosen the Shelby Mustang GT350R

Cyclops Driving Shelby Mustang GT350R

It is not a surprise that the Cyclops has chosen the Shelby Mustang GT350R because he has always been a fan of the Shelby American. This particular render envisions the GT350R with super speed and lightweight carbon fibre wheels, visor windscreen and automatic headlamps which double up as red optic blasts.

Jean Grey’s Cute Volvo XC90

Jean Grey Driving Volvo XC90

Jean Grey is played by one of the Game of Thrones’ cast, Sophie Turner (playing Sansa Stark). We are sure that she will make a fantastic role in these series, too. Her Jean Grey character is envisioned in the renderings driving a cute Volvo XC90, which also has unexpected capabilities. Because of the traumatizing memory of her sister’s death caused by a car accident, she has chosen the safest of brands. In addition, her XC90 also sports bullet proof windows and an inbuilt cerebro in the windshield.

So, what do you think?

Source: NeoMam Studios & WhoCanFixMyCar

May 20, 2016

Supercar Hybrid Technology found in Porsche 918 and BMW i8 to be Available to Mass Market

BMW i8s GKN Driveline will be responsible for bringing the hybrid technology from cars such like the Porsche 918 Spyder and BMW i8 into affordable compact vehicles, and this announcement fires up an excitement in us. The reason for this important and future changing step is that the company has developed an eAxle module, which will help C-segment cars to be produced as plug-in hybrids, thus offering improved performance and CO2 reduction. And this of more than 50%.

The vision of GKN is to make the eAxle technology and thus the plug-in hybrids a simple upgrade for consumers and manufacturers. This was inspired by the success of company’s systems included in the hybrid sports car programmes and premium SUVs. And now it is time to launch the eAxle technology in a much broader range of vehicles.

The eAxle is an upgraded variant of the system GKN designed for the Porsche 918 Spyder. With its single-speed design, the powertrain has minimized weight to just 20.9kg but at the same time this improves efficiency, installation space and costs. In addition, there is also a two-staged geartrain with a gear ratio of 12.5, which delivers up to 200Nm torque and 65kW power. All of this is available in all electric mode. In addition, the electromechanically actuated dog clutch disconnects the electric motor at higher vehicle speeds, while an open coupling minimizes rotating losses when not operating. Noise emissions are minimal due to the precise engineering of the gear teeth.

GKN Powertrain

Let’s make a comparison. If we have a typical C-segment plug-in hybrid, it would probably produce around 100kW. But if it were equipped with the GKN eAxle, it could have additional 65kW of electrical power. Furthermore, the Axle improves the 0-100kph acceleration times by several seconds, and at the same time provides CO2 emission rating to less than 50g/km.

If the hybrids are with front-wheel drive platform, then they ca integrate GKN’s compact, lightweight single-speed eAxle modules into the vehicle’s rear assembly. In this way they will provide a combination of plug-in hybrid and electric all-wheel drive functionalities.

And this makes us excited; because we are all striving that our planet is a better and cleaner place.

Source: GKN

March 14, 2016

BMW to Produce Limited Series of i8 Protonic Red Edition

BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition Side View BMW i8 has been already sold in over 5,400 units this year. The big interest demands variety of trims for the customers and for this reason, the company is entering a special Protonic Red Edition that will be limited for only a period of time. Having a clever hybrid drivetrain, the i8 produces 362 hp (266 kW) and covers 22 miles in electric only mode. It also takes BMW’s EfficientDynamics philosophy to new levels due to emissions as low as 59g/km and a combined consumption figure of 113mpg in the process.

The torque of the powertrain is rated at 570 Newton meters (421 lb-ft) of torque. The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time is rated at 4.4 seconds and the top speed 155 mph.

Unique for the Protonic Red Edition is that it gives a new visual perspective of the BMW i8 model. Although the paintwork is a Protonic Red finish but features Frozen Grey metallic accents. It is contrasted with BMW W-spoke 470 light-alloy wheels painted in Orbit Grey metallic with hubs painted in Aluminium matt. The alloys are fitted with mixed-size tyres. Inside, the interior of this special edition i8 features red double-stitching, a lot of carbon fibre and ceramic trims.

BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition Front View

The styling pack, the powerfully formed wheel arches, the wide track, the dihedral doors opening forwards and upwards, add intrigue to the BMW i8’s design. Being one of the first plug-in-hybrid sports cars, this BMW offers agile performance, near 50:50 weight distribution and excellent efficiency.

For its attractiveness contributes the lightweight and aerodynamically optimized body, which also features passenger cell made from CFRP. The BMW i8 is powered by the eDrive drive system technology, which comprises from a highly turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and intelligent energy management. The high-voltage battery has a liquid cooling system and can be recharged from a conventional household power socket, at a BMW i Wallbox or at a public charging station.

BMW i8 Protonic Red Edition will go officially on sale from September this year and will have a starting price of £112,535.

Source: BMW

February 12, 2016

BMW i8 Transformed by AC Schnitzer [VIDEO]

What happens when you combine hybrid power wit hybrid thinking? The result is simple and can be expressed via this amazing project by AC Schnitzer. This time the tuner has modified BMW’s i8 plug-in hybrid giving it special equipment that further emphasizes the unique qualities of the model.

Exterior

First to be mentioned is the lowering. This BMW sits very close to the ground in a standard form, but now it is even closer. Precisely, the tuners have lowered it by 25 mm at the front and 20 mm at the rear. This helps is also to develop optimum efficiency and better dynamics.

The in-house made carbon fiber front spoiler elements, side skirts and rear wing also contribute for the unforgettable performance. In addition, AC Schnitzer logos can be seen on both sides of the vehicle as well as on the center caps of the wheels. Speaking of which, they are the so called AC1 forged alloys in bicolor double-spoke design which have been fitted with low profile tires.

Another benefit from these wheels is the weight saving. Compared with the standard alloys on which the i8 runs, these save up to 30 percent weight, thus improving the driving dynamics. The AC1 are 21 inch of size and matched with 245/35 R 21 tires at the front 285/30 R 21 tires at the rear.

Interior

Unlike many tuners, AC Schnitzer specialists find the interior as important as the exterior. However, this time they haven’t given it a thorough make-over, but some small changes. Inside one will enjoy aluminium pedal set and root rest from the same material as well as velours floor mats.

There is also a video promoting this car, so don’t forget to check it out:

httpv://youtu.be/kW9oofEQrEA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: AC Schnitzer

May 12, 2015

BMW is Getting Greener with Light and Charge Prototype

BMW continues with innovations and this time the company has prepared for us an innovative street lighting with integrated charging station for electric vehicles. It might seem futuristic, but in fact we sincerely hope to see this genius technology applied in the near future. The pilot project is dubbed Light and Charge and was part of the Eurocities conference in Munich. The car company will cooperate with the City of Munich in order to create an infrastructure of public charging stations. The pilot project will begin in the spring of 2015.

The prototype combines the latest LED technology with a usable connection way to charge the high-voltage batteries of the electric vehicles. The technology is integrated in the ChargeNow network of the electric BMW i series. In other words Light and Charge is simple and innovative solution which naturally integrates a reliable network of charging stations in the city.

Another benefit from the Light and Charge street lighting is the energy efficiency as well as the LED module’s higher luminous efficiency. In fact, up to four modules are enough to illuminate the lanes of major roads at night. One or two modules provide a pleasant light in the side streets and residential areas.

The used LED technology is similar to this one utilized in vehicle’s headlights. This means that it enables a particularly targeting of light rays. The next advantage is that with the development of the Light and Charge system, BMW signals for the future development of a comprehensive network of charging stations for electric vehicles.

Light and Charge units have a standard connector for EV’s charging cable. The integrated control panel allows the driver to start the charging procedure with just one click. ChargeNow already offers customers of BMW i access to worldwide around 18,000 charging stations.

Source: BMW

November 11, 2014

German Special Customs Previews the BMW i8 iTRON

BMW i8 is a plug-in-hybrid racer, powered by 1.5 litres of displacement spread across three cylinders that produce 231 hp (170 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft). There is also an electric motor which generates 131 hp (96 kW) PS and 250 Nm (185 lb-ft). The combination of both is enough for offering an output similar to this of a “real” sports car. In fact, the car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel economy is stunning: 2.1 litres of gasoline per 100 kilometres.

BMW i8 has been available on the market for several months and now the customization specialists at German Special Customs have prepared some styling enhancements for it. At this particular moment, they offer only design drafts of the new look of the project called “iTRON”.

At first sight, GSC’s vehicle looks more aggressive and powerful. Some of the new features include distinctively shaped front spoiler bumper with large cooling air inlets, integrated LED daylight headlights and a spoiler sword with winglets, as well as air outlets integrated into the new motor cowl.

At the back we have exhaust end tubes. End-tube blinds aligned with the shapes of the i8 are integrated in the new rear apron, which also repeats the winglets of the side sills and visually leads on until behind the rear wheels. At last, the serial wheel/tyre combination has been substituted with much wider and with larger diameter.

Source: German Special Customs

October 10, 2014

BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition – Auctioned for $825,000

2015 BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition has been sold for the breath-taking $825,000 at auction held during 2014 Gooding & Company’s annual Pebble Beach Auctions. This is a world auction record price for a BMW i8. It actually equates around 6 times the recommended retail price of the model – $135,700.

The special edition model boasts BMW Individual Frozen Grey Metallic and a Dalbergia Brown leather upholstery. Other highlights include embossed headrests and of course “Concours d’Elegance Edition” badges.

2015 BMW i8 is powered by a 1.5 liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. The overall power is 362HP (266 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft), which is enough for acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The fuel consumption is impressive – 2.1 liters / 100 km (134.5 mpg UK or 112 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 49 g/km. The 2015 i8 can go up to 37 km (23 miles) only on electricity with zero emissions.

Source: BMW

August 19, 2014

BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition To Be Auctioned At Pebble Beach

BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition is going to be auctioned during the weekend of the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on 16th of August. This will happen just before the US sale date scheduled for the fall. What differentiates this BMW from the rest i8 is the unique paint scheme and interior treatment, and also the additional features included. This means that it will be truly unique. The car will be sold by Gooding & Company, which is the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours. All of the gathered proceeds will go to the Pebble Beach Company Foundation.

Precisely, this one-of-a-kind car is distinguished by its BMW Individual Frozen Grey Metallic exterior paint. Inside, there is also unique interior, which boasts Dalbergia Brown leather upholstery tanned via color derived from plant extracts. Highlights of the upholstery feature stitching in BMW i Blue. Furthermore, the Pure Impulse Tera World interior includes other accents in the same color such as the seat belts.

There is also an embossed BMW i8 on the front headrests. Other unique features include laser headlights, pending government approval, a BMW i8 Display key and the first BMW Charging Station, professional edition. “Concours d’Elegance Edition” i8 will be also embossed throughout the interior.

BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid vehicle which features an all-wheel drive powertrain that combines an electric motor driving the front wheels and 1.5-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder gasoline engine driving the rear wheels. The car can move only on electric power at speeds up to 75 mph for approximately 20 miles. And of course, in this mode it generates zero CO2 emissions.

When the gasoline engine works along with the electric motor, the i8 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. The vehicle was constructed with an extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic. The lithium-ion battery pack can be charged from any 240-volt level 2 charging station as well as a conventional 110-volt outlet.

Another excusive technology featured in the BMW i8 Concours d’Elegance Edition is the laser headlights. They generate a pure-white and extremely bright light. It will also be the first BMW in the United States to include a display key which features an integrated LCD touch screen.