BMW's new i division hasn't even launched its first vehicle yet, and it's already looking at a two-door version of its upcoming i3 electric hatchback. The i3 Coupe Concept is a spin-off of the i3 we've been shown for the past year, but will it go into production?
The i3 Coupe Concept drew a strong reception at the 2012 Los Angeles auto show--but if BMW follows its current naming structure, it could end up being called the i4 Coupe if it enters production.
The differences between the i3 Coupe Concept and the i3 electric hatchback start at the sloping roof line. It shares BMW's "stream flow" design language, but this concept is a little wider than the i3 hatchback.
The chassis, most of the body, and the safety cell are all made of lightweight carbon fiber. Inside the i3 Coupe Concept, BMW promises a high grade of materials and big interior space.
The version of BMW's ConnectedDrive in the i3 Coupe Concept features functions far beyond those offered in current BMW infotainment systems. The navigation system can tell you if you'll have enough electric range to make it to your destination based on current battery charge, topography, and traffic conditions, for example.
Powering the i3 Coupe Concept is a rear-mounted electric motor rated at 125 kW (170 horsepower) and 184 pound-feet of torque. Power is send through a single-speed transmission to the rear wheels. BMW estimates range at 80 to 100 miles, and pegs the i3 Coupe Concept's 0-60 mph time at 7.8 seconds.
For more information about the BMW i3 Coupe Concept be sure to read our full preview here, and check out our live photo gallery here.
