The Remarkable BMW i8 Hill Climber: A Unique Creation by Team Edlinger
Introduction
There are some pretty remarkable cars competing in hill climb championships across Europe but this BMW i8-based
creation might just be the most remarkable of them all. The car has been brought to life by Team Edlinger who
also competes in an E30 3-Series with the V8 from an Indycar. In creating a successor to its E30, the team opted
for the i8 thanks to its more aerodynamic shape and has then proceeded to make so many changes to it that it now
hardly even resembles its former self.
A Unique Powertrain
No part of the i8 hill climber is more remarkable than its powertrain. Whereas the car originally left the BMW
factory with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a hybrid system, Team Edlinger has taken a unique
approach by installing not just one, two, or three, but four 4-cylinder 999 cc engines sourced from the BMW HP4
super sports bike. Each of these engines rev all the way up to 14,800 rpm and powers a single wheel.
Collectively, the four engines generate 868 horsepower and operate on 100% e-fuels.
Impressive Features
- Bespoke titanium exhaust system
- Carbon ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers up front and four-piston units at the rear
- Bespoke carbon fiber safety cell with a design similar to that of an LMP1 car
- Trick Sachs damper system
- Custom body aimed at boosting downforce
Video Showcase
Continued Development
While the custom i8 was first unveiled in July last year, it doesn’t appear to have competed at any hill climb
events thus far and development of it is likely still ongoing.
Conclusion
The BMW i8 hill climber created by Team Edlinger is a truly remarkable vehicle. With its unique powertrain and
impressive features, it stands out among the competition. As development continues, it will be interesting to
see how this extraordinary creation performs in future hill climb championships.
H/T to The Drive
