It is possible that global warming may completely alter the concept of the automotive industry. In this case, hybrid models like Chevy Volt, Porsche 918, or Ford Energi may just be the first step. And everyday norms will include electric vehicles like Mercedes- Benz SLS AMG ElectricDrive, Chevy Spark, Tesla Model S P85+ and BMW i8, or Nissan Leaf.
Furthermore, the further development of flying vehicles like Terrafugia Transition should not be ruled out. It is even possible that more revolutionary developments will emerge, which are difficult to imagine today. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that they will not go unnoticed, as it is the demand that stimulates the emergence of new offerings.
Thus, no matter how unusual innovative models may seem, there will always be reasons for their acquisition. Some will not be able to resist curiosity, others will appreciate the benefit of a reasonable offer, and still others will definitely strive to contribute to the idea of saving the planet. Again, it is always pleasant to feel like a pioneer, having the opportunity to be the first to experience new sensations.
Of course, as often happens, inconsistencies and discrepancies may be discovered immediately, which the creators will have to refine and modify. Ultimately, the natural sequence of events will inevitably lead to yesterday's discoveries becoming available to the mass consumer.
But today, the secrets of the future still remain hidden, and the first electric cars are just an attempt to open the coveted door slightly, so it is necessary to hurry to familiarize oneself with their characteristics, at least through the example of the Tesla Model S P 85+ and BMW i 8.
Exterior Data of Tesla Model S P85+ and BMW i8, Specifications
The Tesla Model SP 85+ electric car operates solely on electricity, having received the highest rating primarily due to its high performance. The Silicon Valley's offspring boasts the dynamics of the M5, powered by a lithium-ion battery with an impressive capacity of 85 kWh.
With one charge, it can cover a distance of 436 km. Stylish exterior and complete silence in the cabin, only disturbed by the whisper of the tires, complete the overall picture of the distinctive characteristics of the startup.
Interesting fact. The minimum price of Tesla S P 85+ in the States is $68,000, in the basic configuration with a 60 kWh battery. This means that with zero customs duty, its price will remain the same for Russians.
One of the peculiarities of Tesla is its complete similarity to conventional cars. On the other hand, those with futuristic views will be more impressed by the BMW i8. The brand's designers have fully unleashed their fantasies.
As a result, the elegant curves of the exterior create unimaginable contrasting combinations with abrupt edges. The intricate lines of the polycarbonate body serve as a living embodiment of the imminent future, already speeding along the roadways.
Curiously, the starting price of the hybrid i8 is twice that of Tesla. This is due to the fact that the basic BMW configuration initially includes a full range of innovative technologies. For an additional cost, only tuning elements can be offered by sellers.
Measurements
It seems incredible, but both presented electric car models have almost identical driving characteristics, despite a noticeable difference in mass and overall power distribution of the units. Logically, BMW i8 should be in a winning position, having:
- low seating;
- carbon body;
- all-wheel drive;
- turbocharged engine;
- six-speed transmission;
- two electric motors.
Moreover, the total weight of the car is only 1532 kg, which translates to 4.2 kg per 1 horsepower. In contrast, the Tesla hatchback has a higher lift, rear-wheel drive, a variator, and a total mass of 2100 kg, which equates to 5 kg per 1 horsepower.
Nevertheless, the dimensional electric car has one undeniable advantage: its torque can reach the maximum mark at zero engine speed. This primarily indicates a large power reserve of the vehicle.
Thus, when comparing the acceleration speed of both electric cars, it is revealed that they almost reach speeds of 100 km/h equally. At the start, the advantage remains with the i8, as to achieve acceleration to 30 miles per hour (equivalent to 48 km/h), the Model S needs to travel 50 centimeters more.
However, at a speed of 60 miles per hour (equivalent to 96 km/h), it already wins by 20 cm in the length of the run. However, when comparing time indicators, it turns out that the BMW i8 accelerates by 0.1 second faster.
Remarkably, after a quarter-mile run, Tesla reveals another advantage — the absence of a gearbox (it uses only one gear), so the equal standoff continues until the finish line.
Only with full output on a flat stretch, the i8 has a slight advantage — in 12.4 seconds, it can accelerate to a speed of 180 km/h. At the same time, the Model S P 85+ accelerates to 174 km/h in 12.5 seconds.
In terms of road grip characteristics, both cars also have slight differences. When braking from a speed of 60 miles per hour, Tesla's braking distance was 30 cm shorter.
It amounted to 31.09 m compared to BMW's 31.39 m. However, when entering a turn, the i8 manages to maintain a higher speed due to a well-balanced body. It is capable of generating 0.94 g for lateral acceleration, while the Tesla's figure is slightly lower at 0.91 g.
Having gained some advantage in turns, the BMW i8 managed to reach a higher speed while maneuvering in a figure-eight. The presence of all-wheel drive played a role, allowing it to outpace the opponent by 8 km/h when exiting the turn. The resulting advantage amounted to 0.2 seconds.
Dynamics of Tesla Model S P85+ and BMW i8 in Motion
Thus, a comparative analysis revealed unnaturally similar driving characteristics of the two electric cars, despite significant differences. Of course, in a short race, victory went to the BMW i8, but there was not much to brag about, as the lead was very slight. However, the main competition at that time was ahead, which could be resolved by a prolonged race on a high-speed track.
BMW i8
The interior of the i8 invites you to comfortably settle into refined front seats, which conveniently provide excellent support and are equipped with KLM belts. However, the rear seats have limited space, comfortably accommodating only elementary school children.
Impressive interior design, comfortable low seating, and the bass sound of the three-cylinder turbo engine (enhanced by an electronic sound amplification system). Every curve conveys a sense of intrigue about the upcoming experiences.
If you desire to experience the electric car in action, you need to settle into the driver's seat, shift the gear lever into Drive, and shift it left to activate the sport mode. At this point, the sensors will turn orange, the power meter will show the tachometer mode, and it will be time for the driver to press the accelerator.
A joint test drive was conducted at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca high-speed track, in which Randy Pobst participated, driving the BMW i8. As a result of the test run, it was discovered that the i8's battery reserve was only sufficient for 2 laps at high speed.
After that, the car lost its advantage in dynamic cornering. Things were even worse for Tesla, as its electrical system began to malfunction due to overheating before the end of the first lap, significantly affecting the power of the unit.
Interestingly enough, Pobst familiarized himself with the dynamics of the electric car only after settling behind the wheel. According to the racer, he was shocked by the capabilities of this calm and restrained-looking car.
Based on this race, a clear victory can be attributed to the BMW i8, where it managed to gain a significant advantage. By that time, all expectations for the preceding i3 model, which did not have enough power, had been forgotten. It became clear that the innovative i8 model perfectly corresponds to sports cars like:
- Porsche 918;
- Ferrari La Ferrari;
- McLaren P1.
It has all the speed qualities of a sports car and only differs favorably from them in price. This can be judged by:
- lack of errors and high steering sensitivity;
- lower center of gravity;
- impeccable load distribution between the wheelbase axes.
Additionally, the electric car received a sufficiently stiff body, which also affected the model's responsiveness to control. All impacts were absorbed without any sensations in the cabin.
Tesla Model S P 85+
The presented electric car won the award for the best car of the year, demonstrating excellent dynamics and shining with innovative technologies in its equipment. Among its positive characteristics, it is also worth noting:
- excellent braking system performance;
- short acceleration time to 60 miles per hour (it even surpassed the famous BMW M5);
- an unprecedented torque figure setting the rhythm right from the start.
Nevertheless, switching from the refined front seats of the i8 to the Tesla's driver's seat, it is difficult to immediately adjust to the larger dimensions of this model. It feels like being in a real «home on wheels.» At the same time, a more inert steering responsiveness is immediately felt compared to the sensitive steering of the i8.
However, the braking system is capable of pleasantly surprising, demonstrating excellent grip with the road surface. This effect was achieved by excluding the regenerative system, which is felt immediately after releasing the accelerator pedal.
Oddly enough, the difficulties in handling Tesla can be attributed to the low-profile PS2 tires with a width of 21 inches. They can reduce the quality of movement, especially on uneven road surfaces. This results in feelings of discomfort and unsettling vibrations.
Tesla Model S P85+ and BMW i8: Reality
Sporting characteristics undoubtedly give significance to a car, but most of the time is spent traveling on flat highways and congested city streets. Here, it is revealed that the BMW i8 is quite noisy due to its rigid body compared to Tesla.
At the same time, the Model S cabin includes an Ultra High Fidelity stereo system capable of playing music tracks from all sources or simply from the internet using an «iPad.» As a result, the comfort of the Tesla Model S P 85+ is much more appealing for everyday trips.
