# Test Drive Results BMW i8 Plugin Hybrid Electric Sportscar Review

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/09/test-drive-bmw-i8-plugin-hybrid-electric-car/
- Published: 2019-09-23T20:35:51-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

As I have written about before, the [BMW i8 plugin hybrid](https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0276225EN/the-new-bmw-i8-roadster-the-new-bmw-i8-coupe?language=en)
stands for sustainability. All throughout the value chain. In addition, complementary
mobility services. As well as a fresh understanding of [premium](https://greenlivingguy.com/2013/02/bmw-plugin-hybrid-ev-the-future-of-driving-pleasure/).

## Superior Sustainability

I mean quality defined squarely in terms of sustainability.
[⌊Seth Leitman in the BMW i8 plugin hybrid electric car⌉](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/wp-1451233325843.jpeg?quality=52&ssl=1)

The [BMW i8 plugin hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/09/why-insulation-between-your-house-and-garage-is-a-must-my-story-on-planet-green/)
is a new, cutting-edge generation of sports car and I loved every second . It stands
out in a crowd (you don’t have to worry about that folks!). The second model unveiled
by the new BMW i brand combines a [plug-in hybrid drive](https://greenlivingguy.com/2023/05/kia-sportage-plug-in-hybrid-review-test-drive-results-2023/)
system with a passenger cell made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and
an aluminum frame for the combustion engine and electric motor, the battery pack
and the suspension.
[⌊BMW i8 plugin hybrid electric steering wheel⌉](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/wp-1451233334905.jpeg?quality=52&ssl=1)

#### Breaking new ground: premium cars underpinned by sustainability-led concepts arrive in the sports car segment.⏎ 󠀁[⌊Rear of BMW i8 plugin hybrid electric sportscar PHEV⌉](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/wp-1451233618133.jpeg?quality=52&ssl=1)󠁿

In addition, when [launched](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/07/bmw-i8-throwback-video-from-2013/),
the BMW i8 plugin hybrid was awarded with the [World Green Car Award](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/04/bmw-i8-presented-with-the-world-green-car-award/).
That award came at the New York International Auto Show in 2015; right out the gate!

For the record,  the EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 MPGe (3.1 L gasoline
equivalent/100 km; 91 **mpg**-imp gasoline equivalent). That is correct because 
I got that as a combined MPG! Those tires really helped!

it also 29 miles per gallon (6.7L) when running in pure gasoline mode (after the
battery is drained empty). Although that doesn’t last long. It doesn’t late because
of the amazing recharge ability of this car!

#### Groundbreaking

Because the sports car’s combination of groundbreaking plug-in [hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/08/honda-cr-v-hybrid-sport-test-drive-insights-2025/)
drive technology and innovative lightweight construction. Again because that with
its avant-garde design was honored.  Awarded by the international jury at the World
Car Awards. The BMW i8 was also one of the finalists in the category World Luxury
Car. That was at the World Car Awards 2015. So it therefore is underlining its special
position.

_Finally, the extensive use of innovative materials and the i8’s energy-efficient
production processes. They all underline the overall, future-oriented concept._

Also as [BMW](https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/attachment/T0276225EN/405719)
states: another intoxicating chapter is written in the success story of the BMW 
i8. Because the 2+2-seater is the world’s highest- selling plug-in hybrid sports
car since its launch in 2014!  Now it is joined by the new [BMW i8 Roadster](https://greenlivingguy.com/2018/02/bmw-i8-roadster-coupe-plugin-hybrid-electric/)
in the line-up. The open-top two-seater with electrically operated soft-top. This
adds a whole new sensation of freedom. All to the combination of locally emission-
free mobility and high-caliber performance. It opens the door to virtually silent
motoring with zero CO2 emissions.
[⌊BMW plug-n hybrid i8 digital dashboard ⌉](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/wp-1451233660388.jpeg?quality=52&ssl=1)

![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641?
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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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