2013 BMW i3 and 2014 BMW i8: World Debut

Just the Facts:

• The latest concept studies from BMW provide strong hints as to the future styling direction of the automaker's first two i-series cars.
• BMW refers to the i8 as its "new-generation sports car."
• The compact i3 has been "specifically developed for use in an urban environment."

MUNICH, Germany — BMW on Friday pulled the wraps off its long-awaited i series cars — the 2013 BMW i3 compact and 2014 BMW i8 sports car.

Officially labeled as "concept studies," the prototypes nevertheless provide strong clues as to the styling direction of the first two i series cars.

The gasoline-electric parallel hybrid i8 coupe is described by development boss Klaus Draeger as "the sports car for a new generation — pure, emotional and sustainable," while the pure electric i3 hatchback, according to BMW, has been "specifically developed for use in an urban environment."

Both cars are rear-wheel drive and seat up to four occupants.

BMW previously has showcased some of the cutting-edge technology that underpins the i series cars in several concepts, initially in the Vision EfficientDynamics at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show and most recently in the Vision ConnectedDrive at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show.

In addition to their advanced powertrains, the i series cars use innovative carbon-fiber construction to help reduce weight without sacrificing structural integrity. The compact i3, for instance, weighs only 2,756 pounds — 600 pounds lighter than a Nissan Leaf.

In keeping with its sports-car credentials, the larger i8, whose 3.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor produce a combined 349 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, will sprint from 0-60 in less than 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically governed to 155 mph. But the i8 also returns a remarkable 78 mpg and is capable of driving up to 22 miles in pure electric mode.

BMW seems particularly proud of the i3, which Draeger says will be "the first volume-produced car featuring bodywork largely made of carbon." Powered by a 125kW motor driving the rear wheels, the i3 can accelerate from 0-60 in less than 7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 93 mph and a range of 93 miles, and can be quick-charged to 80 percent of its capacity in just an hour. A full charge will take six hours.

The i3 measures just 151.4 inches long — two feet shorter than the Leaf — while the i8, at 182.4 inches long, is closer in size to a BMW 6 Series coupe.

Both i series cars will be produced at BMW's Leipzig plant in Germany.

Inside Line says: Sex and the Citycar.

BMW i Series Picture

BMW i Series.| BMW North America, Inc.