Sometimes it’s time to leave the city. Escape the restrictions of everyday life. Yes you guessed it the flagship I8 is lapping the Nordschleife.

After successful initial testing of the vehicle concept, the decision for a series production vehicle was quickly made. The BMW i8 Concept is the next step in the evolution of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept.

And now it looks like BMW I8 is looking close to completion, the I8’s plug-in hybrid concept combines the modified electric propulsion system from the BMW i3 Concept – fitted over its front axle – with a high-performance three cylinder combustion engine producing 164 kW/220 hp and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) at the rear.

Acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under five seconds combined with fuel consumption of 2.7 litres per 100 kilometres (approx. 104 mpg) are figures currently beyond the capability of any vehicle powered by a combustion engine of comparable performance.

Thanks to the eDrive technology with its large lithium-ion battery, which can be charged from a domestic power supply, the BMW i8 Concept can travel up to 35 kilometres (approx. 20 miles) on electric power alone. Added to which, the 2+2 seater offers enough space for four people, giving it a high level of everyday practicality.

We expect to see the world wide reveal at the 2013 Frankfurt Motorshow.