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.

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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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