Sexy Future

The BMW i8 Roadster is the most exotic car of its kind in the world of plug-in hybrid.

- Yessar Rosendar

It was a hot Sunday morning, and I found myself caught in a horrendous traffic jam in Sudirman Street, Jakarta. Something felt different and surreal, but that’s because the BMW i8 Roadster I drove was moving silently. There were no sounds or vibrations from the engine as the car effortlessly glided through the stop and go traffic.

Push the BMW eDrive button and the car will run in full electric mode with the digital speedometer indicating I have a 30km range from a maximum of 53km by driving totally in electric mode. It was nice to think that you are not burning fuel when stuck in the traffic. Surprisingly, it was a more pleasing experience than driving a conventional car. With both engines and the electric motor running, most of the time you only need to let go off the brake and the car will move with adequate pace thanks to the electric motor.

One of the perks of an electric motor is its instantaneous torque, which means when you let off the brake and tap on the throttle there are more power available. What’s considered to be the most exotic BMW is also still quite civil for daily rides: good and smooth even though it is not as comfy as the brand’s sedan because its sporty suspension.

With its futuristic design and gullwing doors, the BMW i8 has already become a head-turner. Now after three years of featuring the coupe model, BMW offers an open top version with an electronically operated soft top. The car retractable soft top adds further refinement to the design of the car, complementing its futuristic and sporty aura that makes it the most exotic-looking car in the BMW’s lineup. The addition of a retractable roof changes the appearance of the car, especially in the rear, making it like a convertible Ferrari or McLaren.