BMW I8 Named Official Formula E Safety Car
The BMW i8 will be seen at Formula E events worldwide.
The German automaker’s plug-in hybrid sports car has been named the official safety car for the electric car series, which features single-seater racers and hopes to promote the electrification of vehicles. The BMW i8 official safety car was unveiled in a ceremony at the Donington Park circuit in the United Kingdom, which is the home of Formula E. With a combined system output of 357 hp, the i8 will be up to the task of leading race cars while its 15-mile electric range will help it perform its duties emissions-free.
SEE ALSO: Formula E Building new HQ in UK at Donnington Park
To ensure that the i8’s battery is always fully charged, the safety car will also feature wireless charging technology courtesy of Qualcomm Halo. By parking over a resonant magnetic induction pad on the ground, the i8 will be able to charge its battery without using a cable. A pair of BMW i3 electric vehicles are also under consideration to be used with the series for other track-related roles.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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