As the final i8 rolls off the production line in Germany, BMW celebrates with 18 unique examples
As the final i8 rolls off the production line in Germany, BMW celebrates with 18 unique examples
Six years since production of BMW’s eccentric hybrid sports car first hit our roads, the German marque has produced its very final example. To mark the occasion, the last 18 cars have been finished in unique shades chosen by their respective owners.
Unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show, the i8 was the first of its kind, boasting high-tech lightweight materials, an advanced hybrid powertrain and a design you’d expect to find on a concept. Outright performance wasn’t its strong suit, but with over 20,000 units sold over its lifetime, there’s no doubt that it was a welcome entrant into the sports car segment.
Ranging from Austin Yellow first seen on the M4, through to British Racing Green and Le Mans Blue, the final examples are certainly a sight to behold. Plant director Hans-Peter Kemser, said: ‘The degree of customisation in these vehicles threw up some major logistical and process challenges, but our i production unit has proved yet again that nothing is impossible.’
Due to the unique nature of some of the shades requested, various components had to be hand-painted to ensure a satisfactory finish. Kemser went on to say: ‘Yet again, we have proved our ability to meet the highly discerning standards and personal specifications of our customers with unique solutions and unparalleled skill. For BMW i8 production to end with a finale like this is something we can all be very proud of.’
The end of production for the hybrid sports car comes just ahead of BMW’s all-electric push, expected to be led by the i4 saloon previewed in concept form earlier this year.
The final i8s were delivered to their owners at the brand’s Leipzig plant last week.
Sam Jenkins