Spy shots: BMW i8 hybrid

BMW i8 hybrid   Our spy catches up with the BMW i8 hybrid. It may look like it, but this isn't the Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept. We thought we’d seen a vision, but in fact, it was the 2013 BMW i8 coupé during some cold weather testing.
It looks almost exactly like the Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept which is great news because that beautiful, futuristic shape remains. The dramatically styled i8 has a bold exterior with translucent panels built into the scissor-style doors, which should make the transition from concept to production when the car arrives in 2013.
For now, the i8 will have a 1.5-litre diesel making 164bhp  and an electric motor with 33 horses. However, the diesel may be swapped for a four-pot petrol. Carbon fibre and aluminium promise a lightweight body, while the heavy lithium-ion battery should be placed strategically for optimum weight distribution. The i8 will also have high-tech gadgetry such as regenerative braking and BMW’s stop-start system. No idea what this will set you back, but it’s bound to be a pretty penny or two.