BMW i8 sees revamped look, more power, better range and a 2017 release date, company earnings and forecast shared
The BMW i8 will look different following its first update. BMW enthusiasts can look forward to the revamped unit sometime in late 2017.
Enthusiasts will enjoy the mid-lifespan refresh for the BMW i8, as the biggest improvement expected would be the addition of 10 percent power, Road and Track reported.
Though there were no confirmations yet, there is speculation that the additional power will not come from an improved engine. Instead, it will supposedly come from improved electric motors. This is made possible with expected changes, including improved transmission programming, a larger battery and suspension improvements.
The change in the BMW i8 is expected to boost the car’s capability to 420 horsepower exceeding its current 362hp, Autoblog reported. Topping all of the changes is the possible inductive charging capability for the BMW i8, allowing for charging without plugging the unit to an outlet.
The BMW i8 refreshed version will also come with a roadster variant. While the BMW i8 is looking great with a focused release, the company is looking at a tougher year ahead in terms of sales.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the company had cited a forecast, where it is anticipating some difficulty later in the year. This was attributed to the possible continuation of decline in sales in the U.S., combined with uncertain growth in China and Europe. According to the source, BMW’s stock price went down around four percent even with better profit in the first quarter.
Still, the profit is predicted to stall a little during the year, since BMW is looking at developing technologies that are on par with rivals, particularly Tesla Motors Inc. The focus of the company is looking more towards sustainable profitable growth. Part of this is the company’s outlook towards developing technologies like its plug-in hybrid vehicles and more powerful batteries for its electric vehicles.
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