BMW debuts i8 Concept Spyder eDrive in Beijing The latest BMW concept vehicle i8 Spyder The BMW i8 Concept Spyder makes its world debut in...

BMW debuts i8 Concept Spyder eDrive in Beijing

The latest BMW concept vehicle i8 Spyder

The BMW i8 Concept Spyder makes its world debut in Beijing at Auto China 2012 this week. As with all electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles coming from the manufacturer, it bears an eDrive emblem on its rear end.

The i8 Spyder, like the coupe shown in New York, is a plug-in hybrid with an electric motor up front and a mid-mounted turbocharged 3-cylinder gasoline engine powering the rear axle. A lithium-ion battery pack is located between the two. Total output for the whole system is 354 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque.

The i8’s drivetrain can be front-, rear- or all-wheel drive depending on whether it’s efficiency, performance or traction you’re after. It offers 50:50 weight distribution, and BMW says the extra weight of a hybrid drivetrain has been negated through use of lightweight materials like carbon fibre and aluminum.

The Spyder is slightly shorter than the coupe, and also features a pair of electric scooters under the rear glass panel.