German automaker BMW plans to launch its i8 plug-in hybrid sports car in Bahrain this month.

Paul Yates, General Manager of Euro Motors, sole dealer for BMW in Bahrain, said: “BMW vehicles have always been known to be at the forefront of technology and innovation - the BMW i8 is no exception.

“Combining the performance and appeal of a sports car with the fuel consumption of a small car, the BMW i8 features a unique design language, as well as a sustainability concept throughout its build. Unique to its core we are confident that the car will be as successful in Bahrain as it has been around the world.”

The BMW i8 is the second model after the BMW i3 to be unveiled by BMW i, the company's sub-brand focusing on developing sustainable products and services.

The 2+2-seater comprises BMW LifeDrive architecture, the worlds' first body architecture specifically designed and purpose-built for series production of electric and plug-in hybrid cars.

Powered by a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine drives through the rear wheels.

The BMW i8’s intelligent hybrid system also capitalises on a potent electric motor which sends drive to the front wheels resulting in a combined power output of 362hp delivered to all four wheels.

When united, the dual motors (electric motor at the front and petrol engine at the rear) work in harmony enabling the BMW i8 to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds while using just 2.1 litres of petrol per 100kms and emitting just 59g/km of emissions.

The BMW i8 has a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h, and can be operated solely in all electric drive (zero emissions) for around 37 kilometres - and the battery of the plug-in hybrid can be continuously charged by the petrol engine while driving. Due to its lightweight of just 1,485 kg, it provides a total drive range of more than 500 kilometres. – TradeArabia News Service