The BMW i8 Roadster is set to be unveiled at the Los
Angeles Auto Show later this month and spy photographers have just snapped
photos of what appears to be an upgraded i8 coupe.
Caught undergoing testing in Germany, the mysterious
model has shoots wondering if it's the facelifted i8 or a more
powerful i8 S. They're inclined to believe it is the latter as this particular
prototype has a deeper front splitter, a small rear spoiler, and what appears
to be a fully enclosed hood.
We're not entirely sure what the model is but the
facelifted i8 is expected to have an upgraded powertrain that produces around
420 hp. The i8 S, on the other hand, is expected to have up to 450 hp.
BMW has been tight-lipped about the car but rumors
have suggested the facelifted model will come with a larger lithium-ion battery
that reportedly has a capacity of around 14 kWh. This would increase the
model's EPA-estimated electric-only range beyond the 15 miles (24 km) that the
coupe is currently rated for.
The updated i8 and i8 S are expected to be launched
next year and the company could reveal some new details about the models in Los
Angeles.
Cr : Carscoops