BMW lobs exclusive Protonic-series i8
BY TUNG NGUYEN | 10th Aug 2017
The new Protonic editions are available in two exclusive colours – five examples in Frozen Black and a single unit in an eye-catching Frozen Yellow – both with Frozen Grey metallic body accents.
The latest Protonic batch follows delivery of five red i8 Protonic editions imported by BMW Australia last year.
The latest black and yellow Protonic i8s will wear 20-inch alloy wheels in a W-spoke design that is also available across the standard range.
Inside, the Protonic editions are fitted with Spheric seat trim finished in dark Amido leather, along with grey seat belts – a configuration also available on across the i8 range – while yellow stitching is found on the lower instrument panel, door trims and floor mats.
Protonic i8s are equipped with the standard powertrain that combines a 170kW/320Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder combustion engine with a 98kW/250Nm electric motor for total output of 266kW/570Nm.
Fuel consumption is rated at 2.1 litres per 100km. The i8 can coast on electricity for up to 31km at up to 120km/h. The zero to 100km/h sprint takes 4.4 seconds when a boost function from the electric motor is engaged.
BMW Group Australia CEO Marc Werner said the i8 had been an important brand-building model for the German car-maker.
He said the new additions will add to the car’s appeal.
“The BMW i8 has long been the proof of our commitment to a greener future, without compromising on performance,” he said.
“Now the latest Protonic Frozen Black and Frozen Yellow Editions provide additional collector appeal, with a focus on high luxury and exclusivity.”Since being launched locally in 2014, BMW has sold 109 i8s, with sales in the first seven months of 2017 totalling 13.
BMW is expected to reveal a convertible version of the i8 at next month’s Frankfurt motor show, ahead of a worldwide release sometime in 2018.
| 2017 BMW i8 Protonic pricing* | |
| Frozen Black Edition (a) | $303,300 |
| Frozen Yellow Edition (a) | $303,300 |
