BMW i8

The BMW i8, although branded as BMW’s electric supercar, is not a pure electric vehicle in that it is powered by a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine combined with a 129bhp electric motor linked to lithium-ion batteries.

This hybrid powertrain produces 357bhp and 570Nm of torque and is able to go from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 155mph. Despite these high performance figures, BMW claims the i8 returns 134.5mpg and CO2 emissions of just 49g/km. The i8’s 32-litre fuel tank allows it to cover just over 300 miles on a full charge and with a full tank. A domestic power socket affords an 80 percent charge in around three hours, reduced to two hours with a BMW home charging station, while BMW’s £315 15-amp I Wallbox reduces the charge time to two hours.

The BMW i8 boasts a high specification with scissor doors, narrow LED headlights (optionally available with laser technology), sat-nav, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and heated leather-finished seats. Although being a 2+2, reviews have indicated there is little room in the rear of the car.

An added extra for BMW i8 owners is the option, provided by BMW, of borrowing a traditional BMW for longer journeys or family holidays.