BMW Rumored to Be Working on Plug-in Hybrid Sports Car Slated to Launch in 2013

BMW Rumored to Be Working on Plug-in Hybrid Sports Car Slated to Launch in 2013

BMWBLOG is reporting that the Bavarian maker of "ultimate driving machines" is rumored to be working on a plug-in hybrid sports car that's slated to launch in 2013 and compete with Mercedes-Benz' SLS E-Cell and Audi's E-Tron.

The blog says the BMW i100 Coupe ActiveHybrid (rendered at right) will be capable of traveling 9 to 31 miles on electrons only and, in addition to two 50-horsepower electric motors, will feature a three-cylinder direct-injection engine generating an additional 165-185 hp.

Continuing on the rumor path, the German publication Auto Bild reports that the engine most likely a diesel unit similar to the one found in the Vision Concept. That rear/mid-mounted turbocharged engine is fitted to the 6-speed DCT gearbox.

For the U.S. market, BMW might - might - offer a four-cylinder powerplant as well, BMWBLOG says. Unlike the competition from Audi and Mercedes-Benz, the BMW will offer room for four passengers.

The blog says BMW plans to sell about 35,000 units at about $140,000 apiece, and that it might be presented at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. We'll see. BMW isn't talking.

Scott Doggett:  is an AutoObserver.com Associate Editor.