GENEVA, Feb 13 — To celebrate the BMW i8 becoming the world’s most popular hybrid supercar, its makers plan to roll out a number of special editions over the next 12 months.
The first, the Protonic Red Edition, will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1. So, as well as the three-cylinder turbocharged engine plus electric motor that work in harmony to deliver 362hp, a 0-100km/h time of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 155mph (250km/h) found under the carbon fibre and composites of all i8s, the new model gets an exclusive paint finish. A strong (Protonic) Red with frozen grey metallic accents to be precise, plus a set of unique alloy wheels.
Inside the colour scheme continues, the seats are double-stitched and it boasts exclusive carbon fibre and ceramic trim.
Since its launch, the i8 has sold over 5400 units. That may not sound like a huge number but it is more than all of its direct competitors—the Ferrari LaFerrari, the McLaren P1 and the Porsche 918 Spyder—have managed, combined.
Dr. Ian Robertson, BMW AG Board Member for Sales and Marketing said: “The success of the BMW i8 speaks for itself, it is already the world’s most successful hybrid sports car and has comfortably exceeded our own expectations. I can think of no better illustration of the relevance of our young BMW i brand.”
However, this year marks the launch of the long-awaited hybrid Honda (Acura) NSX. It is faster off the mark (0-100km/h in 2.9 seconds) and has a higher top speed than the i8 but will cost almost exactly the same.
The Protonic Red Edition i8 will go on sale in September. — AFP-Relaxnews
