BMW i8 Engines to be Built in UK

BMW announced that the new generation of high-tech, 3-cylinder petrol engines for the future BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car will be produced exclusively at the BMW engine plant at Hams Hall, near Birmingham.

Ian Robertson, of the BMW's Board of Management, said the 3-cylinder petrol engines for the i8 phev sports car will be produced at the Hams Hall factory, near Birmingham, which last week produced its three millionth engine since it opened in 2001.

Speaking at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) International Summit in London, Mr Robertson, said: "The new 3-cylinder petrol engines will enable our future BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car to set new standards for dynamic performance in combination with industry leading fuel-efficiency and low carbon emission levels."

The i8 combines the electric drive system of the BMW i3, with a 96 kW (129 hp) electric motor located in the front axle powering the front wheels and at the rear is a turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine producing 164 kW (220 hp) and 300 N-m (220 lbf-ft) of torque.

Unlike most concepts, BMW pledges hard performance targets of 0-60 mph in about five seconds, some 19 miles on electric power alone, a top speed of 155 mph and fuel economy of 94 mpg in European testing.