The second car under the 'BMW i' sub-brand, the i8, is a plug-in hybrid sports car.

An electric motor and battery gives a pure electric range of 21 miles, after which a petrol engine joins in to help propel the car forwards, just as with the current crop of hybrids. BMW says the combo is good enough for a massive 94mpg, but the most exciting part is the performance - with a total output of 348hp, 0-62mph can be achieved in less than five seconds while top speed is a very respectable 150mph.

Although testing is well underway, the i8 is still in concept stage and prices have yet to be announced, but with carbon fibre construction, this kind of performance and the BMW badge we don't expect it to come cheap. What we do expect is uncompromised driving dynamics and oodles of sportscar fun.

By August 2, 2011 2:21 PM

Coming soon…