| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 2011 |
The 2011 BMW i8 Coupe Concept represents a stunning glimpse into the future of hybrid sports cars by BMW. Introduced as a prototype coupe, this concept vehicle was designed to merge advanced sustainable technology with striking and aerodynamic aesthetics. Although it never went into mass production in this exact form, the i8 Coupe Concept laid the groundwork for the subsequent production BMW i8 models. Its compact yet aggressive proportions emphasize sportiness and efficiency, characteristic of BMW's vision for electrified performance cars. The vehicle features sleek, futuristic design cues including a low-slung profile, distinctive butterfly doors, and sculpted body panels aimed at optimizing aerodynamic performance. The dimensions of the i8 Coupe Concept position it as a mid-size sporty coupe, though exact official size details of this concept were limited. Typically, production i8 models measured roughly 4,689 mm (184.6 inches) in length, around 1,942 mm (76.5 inches) in width, and about 1,290 mm (50.8 inches) in height, giving a frame that balances driver-focused agility with sleek styling. The concept leveraged a plug-in hybrid powertrain to showcase BMW’s commitment to sustainable mobility without compromising driving dynamics. Overall, the 2011 BMW i8 Coupe Concept is a pioneering example of combining cutting-edge hybrid technology with futuristic automotive design, influencing the direction of modern performance coupes and BMW's electrified vehicle lineup.
Discover the standout features that make the 2011 BMW i8 Coupe concept a leader in its class
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The BMW i8 Coupe Concept unveiled in 2011 measures approximately 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) in length, 1,940 mm (76.4 inches) in width, and 1,290 mm (50.8 inches) in height. These dimensions give the car a sleek and aerodynamic profile consistent with futuristic sports coupe design concepts. The relatively low height contributes to a sporty stance while the wide body enhances stability and road presence.
With a width of about 1,940 mm (76.4 inches), the BMW i8 Coupe Concept is wider than many standard compact cars. This width provides excellent stability at high speeds and aggressive cornering abilities. However, it may require more attention in tight parking spaces or crowded urban environments, as the wider body can make maneuvering in narrow spots more challenging compared to narrower sedans or compact vehicles.
The wheelbase of the BMW i8 Coupe Concept is around 2,800 mm (110.2 inches). A longer wheelbase generally translates into improved ride comfort and better interior space distribution. For this concept, it helped achieve a balanced cabin layout, providing adequate legroom for occupants in a compact sporty design, emphasizing driver and passenger comfort alongside performance.
Most standard residential garages are designed with internal widths around 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) and heights of about 2,130 mm (83.9 inches). At approximately 1,940 mm (76.4 inches) wide and 1,290 mm (50.8 inches) high, the BMW i8 Coupe Concept should comfortably fit into a standard garage. Its low height and moderate width allow it to be parked without clearance issues, though care is advised when maneuvering due to its sporty dimensions.
The BMW i8 Coupe Concept uses lightweight materials such as carbon fiber-reinforced plastic to keep its weight around 1,490 kg (3,284 lbs). This relatively low weight for a hybrid sports vehicle enhances acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency. By reducing mass, the i8 attains a balance of performance and eco-friendliness, allowing it to deliver sporty driving dynamics without compromising sustainability goals.
Standing approximately 1,290 mm (50.8 inches) tall, the BMW i8 Coupe Concept has a notably low and streamlined profile. This reduced height improves aerodynamics by minimizing frontal area and drag, contributing to better efficiency and higher speeds. Stylistically, the low roofline enhances the coupe’s futuristic and sporty design language, emphasizing sleekness and agility.
Compared to its production successor launched in 2014, the 2011 i8 Coupe Concept is slightly longer and a bit lower. The production version measures roughly 4,689 mm (184.6 inches) in length, slightly longer than the concept’s 4,600 mm (181.1 inches). The production car also has similar width and height, maintaining the concept’s low and wide stance, but the production model was slightly more refined for everyday usability and regulatory compliance while retaining sportiness.
The BMW i8 Coupe Concept was ahead of its time in combining ultralight construction, low height, and wide stance among hybrid sports cars of the early 2010s. Compared to contemporaries like the Acura NSX concept or Porsche 918 Spyder prototype, the i8 stood out with its compact dimensions and emphasis on futuristic design. Its lightweight material use and aerodynamic styling set it apart in blending efficiency with performance within a sporty and luxurious package.
The BMW i8 Coupe Concept features a 2+2 seating layout, accommodating two adults comfortably in the front seats and two smaller passengers or children in the rear seats. The interior prioritizes driver engagement and futuristic aesthetics, with ample headroom due to the sloping roof design but limited rear legroom typical of sports coupes. This configuration suits both spirited driving and occasional additional passengers.
The concept i8’s low height, wide stance, and moderate length contribute to its dramatic road presence. The vehicle’s width of 1,940 mm (76.4 inches) and low height of 1,290 mm (50.8 inches) lower its center of gravity, which helps with handling and stability during high-speed cornering. Furthermore, the compact length of 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) enhances maneuverability in both urban and open-road scenarios, balancing sports car agility with futuristic design.
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