The i8 Spyder Concept is the third variant of BMW’s i brand next to the i3 and i8. It’s a 2 seater, open top variant that’s already begun wooing the world with its astonishingly sexy styling. Most notable are the show stopping upward-swivelling doors that are as outlandish as they are a technological marvel. If you aren’t impressed yet, the i8 Spyder also features laser light technology in the headlights and a neat two-section folding roof.

Aside from being a plug-in hybrid capable of sprinting from 0-100 km/h in five seconds and reaching a top speed of 250 km/h, the i8’s most impressive feature is its carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell. BMW calls it “LifeDrive” and it is both stronger and lighter than using conventional steel or even raw carbon fibre. The rest of the car is made from aluminum components which bring together the power train, chassis, and safety structure.

The Spyder’s total power output is 354 horsepower, made possible by combining a high-performance electric motor and an internal combustion engine. The engine is a 3-cylinder 1.5 litre engine that can be driven in three modes: electric, petrol, or a combination of the two. Weighing a mere 1,630 kg, the i8 is able to achieve a fuel economy beyond belief. Ladies and gentlemen, this sports car only consumes 3 litres per 100 kilometres.

Now what about a M1 revival? The i8 already has a carbon fibre based chassis – now give it the M5 engine producing over 550 horsepower, the optional M6 carbon ceramic brakes, and we’ve got ourselves a winner!