A recent and exciting development in the automotive world sees a dedicated enthusiast embarking on a transformative journey for the BMW i8. This visionary YouTuber is not just making minor tweaks; they are fundamentally re-engineering the i8 by installing a B58 3.0-liter straight-six engine. The i8, known for its futuristic aesthetics and innovative plug-in hybrid system, often left performance enthusiasts wanting more. Its original setup, combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivered a respectable but not earth-shattering 360 horsepower in its final iteration. This ambitious engine swap aims to rectify that by significantly escalating the vehicle's power output.
The undertaking is currently in its nascent stages, commencing with the meticulous removal of the i8's factory powertrain. This crucial first step includes extracting the battery, a process that will carve out a new space between the seats to accommodate a transmission tunnel. Furthermore, the project necessitates the custom fabrication of new subframes, engineered specifically to cradle the new, more robust engine. The chosen B58 engine, originally from a 2017 BMW 340i xDrive, produced 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque in its donor vehicle. However, the ultimate objective for this build is to push the engine's capabilities to an astounding 700 horsepower, redefining the i8's performance potential and truly aligning its power with its supercar-like appearance.
This innovative project holds the promise of unlocking the BMW i8's true performance capabilities, showcasing the ingenuity and passion within the automotive community. While the challenges of integrating a substantially different and more powerful engine, particularly concerning weight distribution and handling characteristics, are significant, the endeavor is a testament to pushing boundaries. The transformation of the i8 from a stylish hybrid to a high-horsepower, straight-six powerhouse represents a remarkable fusion of design and raw power, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide.