The BMW i8 was an unusual vehicle for many reasons. It featured butterfly doors but wasn’t a hardcore supercar; a hybrid drivetrain that included a three-cylinder engine, but wasn’t just a fuel-efficient box; and a carbon-fiber chassis when the only other cars with that made along with BMW’s own i3 and the Alfa Romeo 4C were exotics costing at least double its price. Some might label it as a compromise, but there’s no doubting that the i8 was truly distinct from anything else on the road—even in terms of how it produced sound.
Indeed, numerous contemporary cars emit synthetic sounds. Regrettably, this practice has become more common now than it was 12 years ago when the i8 first hit the market. Some electric vehicles even project fake growls, pops, and bangs for onlookers. The i8 did feature a small gasoline engine, so it naturally produced some noise, but BMW felt it necessary to enhance its exhaust sound. However, to discover precisely how the engineers executed this, one would need to consult the service manual or examine the underside of the car.
The i8 appears to have two exhaust pipes behind its rear bumper. The one on the right is connected to the engine. The other, however, isn’t linked to anything—well, technically it is, but only by some speaker wire. You see where this is leading.
Yes, the i8’s left exhaust was essentially just a loudspeaker all along. And boy, does it get loud, as Trevor Elam, who runs the BMW parts site Bimmernetwork, demonstrated on YouTube:
This BMW Exhaust is literally a speaker 🤯#cars #bmw #i8 #i8swap
“We discovered [the speaker] during disassembly when the BMW service manual mentioned removing the acoustic generator,” Elam informed me. Indeed, the manual refers to this component as both an “acoustic sensor” and “sound generator,” indicating that even BMW—the brand that introduced the world’s first “Sports Activity Vehicle”—is straightforward about what this part actually does.
In the above video, Elam connects the sound generator to a stereo, demonstrating that it can indeed function as a regular speaker. I inquired if he considered transforming this device into a completely impractical portable speaker, perhaps for a gathering. It has the capacity for it; a recent Hagerty video recorded the output of this component at an impressive 110 dB. That’s supposedly as loud as a concert.
“We actually used it as the speaker in our workshop for a day or so, and it is indeed quite loud,” he mentioned, emphasizing that it’s tuned for bass above all. This makes sense for a speaker specifically designed to project engine sounds.
This i8 might not require the speaker’s assistance, given Elam’s plans for it: a B58 inline-six with a Dynamic Autowerx turbo fitted at the front, aiming for around 700 horsepower at the wheels. He believes hitting that target won’t pose a challenge, considering his B58-powered drag 340xi produces 1,000 hp.
Elam also shared with me a message from a BMW engineer who assisted in developing the i8 in Germany. He supported the project and indicated that his team hoped someone would eventually “install a proper engine” into the hybrid sports car. Now, someone is doing just that, equipping the i8 with a motor to produce the sound it could never authentically make (and even more). If you wish to keep track of the progress, Elam is documenting the entire adventure in episodes on his YouTube channel.
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**The BMW i8 Features an Exhaust Capable of Producing Music**
The BMW i8, a plug-in hybrid sports vehicle, has intrigued car enthusiasts since its reveal. One of its most fascinating characteristics is the unique muffler system that can generate musical tones, enhancing the driving experience in an exceptional manner.
**1. Overview of the BMW i8**
The BMW i8 combines a turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, yielding a total power output of 369 horsepower. This hybrid setup allows for remarkable performance, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds while retaining efficiency. The i8’s design is equally impressive, showcasing a futuristic outline and scissor doors that emphasize its sporty nature.
**2. The Muffler System**
Central to the i8’s musical features is its innovative muffler system. Unlike conventional mufflers that merely aim to reduce noise, the i8’s system is designed to produce a unique sound profile that enriches the driving experience. This is accomplished through a blend of electronic sound generation and acoustic tuning.
**3. Sound Design and Technology**
The sound generated by the i8’s muffler is not just an afterthought; it is a meticulously designed aspect of the car’s character. BMW’s engineers worked alongside sound designers to develop a soundtrack that mirrors the car’s performance traits. The system employs speakers and sound modulation technology to create an array of sounds, from a gentle hum during electric-only driving to a more intense roar when the gasoline engine is engaged.
**4. Driving Modes and Sound Variation**
The BMW i8 comes with several driving modes, including Comfort, Eco Pro, and Sport. Each mode modifies the vehicle’s performance dynamics and correspondingly, the sound produced by the muffler. In Eco Pro mode, the sound is more muffled, fostering a peaceful driving atmosphere. Conversely, Sport mode unleashes a more thrilling auditory experience, providing feedback that strengthens the driver’s connection to the vehicle.
**5. The Experience of Driving the i8**
Driving the BMW i8 transcends mere speed and efficiency; it is a holistic experience that engages all the senses. The musical muffler adds an emotional dimension to the driving experience, allowing drivers to feel a deeper connection to the car. The sound becomes integral to the vehicle’s persona, making each trip unforgettable.
**6. Environmental Considerations**
As a hybrid model, the i8 prioritizes sustainability without sacrificing performance. The capacity to create music via the muffler aligns with BMW’s dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship. By weaving sound design into the driving experience, the i8 demonstrates how technology can enhance enjoyment while endorsing eco-friendly driving methods.
**7. Conclusion**
The BMW i8’s exhaust capable of producing music stands as a testament to the brand’s inventive spirit. This feature not only enriches the driving experience but also signifies the future of automotive design, where sound and performance merge. As the automotive sector continues to advance, the i8 distinguishes itself as a pioneering illustration of how technology can forge a more engaging and pleasurable driving experience.