Horrell speaks with Porsche representatives at the Nardo test track in Southern Italy about the first rolling chassis Porsche 918 Spyder prototype as they continue testing. The German automaker is developing plug-in hybrid technology to boost the performance and efficiency of its next supercar. Porsche’s target for combined output of the 918 Spyder’s 4.6-liter V-8 and two electric motors is 770 hp, which should be enough for supercar performance.
Martinez travels to Florida to see the BMW i8 Concept Spyder. In the transition to roadster the Spyder gains 300 pounds and loses its rear seats. The concept uses the same 220-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-three cylinder engine and 129-hp electric motor as the original i8 Concept. BMW says the i8 Concept Spyder should hit 60 mph in 5.0 seconds and return up to 80 mpg.
