BMW unveiled at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show 2011 the BMW i3 and BMW i8 concept cars.

According to i4u.com, the BMW i3 Concept is powered by a fully-electric drive and suited for urban areas. The BMW i8 Concept is a plug-in hybrid model. Combining an electric drive and a combustion engine, it guarantees both maximum efficiency and maximum dynamics.

The body for the i3 and i8 is truly revolutionary - both for the architecture as well as the material used. The chassis is made mainly from aluminum, while the passenger cabin is made from carbon fiber. By using carbon fiber, BMW has resolved the contradiction that an electric car has to weigh more because of heavy batteries.

The BMW i3 is planned to be launched in late 2013. Shortly after, the BMW i8 will hit the streets. The BMW i8 clearly looks very futuristic. BMW is bringing this car design to the market in the next 2-3 years.