What did gabura racing technologies modify their bmw i8

The BMW i8 has always been a marvel of modern automotive technology. As one of the most innovative plug-in hybrid sports cars, it combines sleek aesthetics, futuristic design, and eco-friendly performance. However, while the i8’s hybrid powertrain offered a revolutionary take on sustainability, it left many speed enthusiasts wanting more when it came to raw power and driving dynamics. This is where Gabura Racing Technologies, a German-based tuning company, stepped in and redefined what the BMW i8 could achieve.

In this article, we will explore how Gabura Racing Technologies modified the BMW i8, turning it from a hybrid eco-sports car into a high-performance beast. From engine swaps to aerodynamic tweaks, we’ll dive deep into the changes that make this modified i8 a masterpiece.

Overview of the BMW i8

Design and Features of the Stock BMW i8

The BMW i8 debuted in 2014 as a plug-in hybrid sports car, combining sustainable engineering with cutting-edge design. Key features of the stock BMW i8 include:

• Powertrain: A 1.5-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 369 horsepower.
• Battery: A lithium-ion battery offering an electric-only range of up to 18 miles.
• Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds.
• Design: A lightweight carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) chassis and aerodynamic styling.
• Eco-Friendliness: Low CO2 emissions and exceptional fuel efficiency.

The Vision Behind the BMW i8

BMW’s engineers designed the i8 as a bridge between performance and sustainability. It was marketed as a sports car of the future, prioritizing environmental consciousness without sacrificing style or innovation. However, its hybrid system limited its performance appeal to hardcore car enthusiasts.

Gabura Racing Technologies: A Brief Introduction

Gabura Racing Technologies is a German automotive tuning and engineering company renowned for pushing the boundaries of performance. With a focus on motorsports and high-performance cars, Gabura specializes in transforming stock vehicles into head-turning machines. Their expertise in engine swaps, chassis upgrades, and aerodynamics makes them a leader in the world of car modification.

When Gabura set their sights on the BMW i8, their goal was to unleash the car’s full performance potential while retaining its futuristic aesthetic.

What Modifications Did Gabura Racing Technologies Make to the BMW i8?

Gabura Racing Technologies performed a comprehensive overhaul of the BMW i8, replacing its eco-friendly hybrid system with a high-performance internal combustion engine and making significant structural and mechanical changes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their modifications:

Engine Conversion: From Hybrid to Pure Power

The most significant modification made by Gabura Racing Technologies was the removal of the BMW i8’s hybrid drivetrain. They replaced it with a 4.4-liter V8 engine sourced from the BMW M6—a move that completely redefined the car’s identity.

• Stock Powertrain: The original 1.5-liter engine and electric motor produced 369 horsepower.
• Modified Powertrain: The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 produces over 800 horsepower, delivering unmatched acceleration and top speed.

This engine swap transformed the BMW i8 from a hybrid sports car into a performance-focused supercar, capable of rivaling the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.

Transmission Upgrade

To handle the increased power from the V8 engine, Gabura Racing Technologies installed a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This upgrade allowed for faster gear shifts, improved responsiveness, and a race-ready driving experience. read more

Chassis and Structural Reinforcement

To accommodate the larger engine and handle the added power, Gabura reinforced the i8’s chassis. Key changes included:

• Strengthening the carbon-fiber frame for better rigidity.
• Adjusting the weight distribution for optimal handling.
• Modifying the engine bay to fit the V8 engine.

Aerodynamic Enhancements

Gabura made several aerodynamic modifications to enhance the i8’s stability and downforce at high speeds. These included:

• Adding a custom front splitter and rear diffuser.
• Installing a larger rear wing for added downforce.
• Improving airflow around the car for reduced drag.

Weight Reduction Strategies

Despite the addition of a larger engine, Gabura managed to keep the car’s weight in check by using lightweight materials. The extensive use of carbon fiber for body panels and interior components ensured that the modified i8 remained agile.

Interior Customization

The interior of the modified BMW i8 received a racing-inspired makeover. Gabura added:

• Bucket seats with racing harnesses.
• A custom steering wheel with performance controls.
• A stripped-down cabin to reduce weight further.
• High-quality materials such as Alcantara and carbon fiber for a premium yet sporty feel.

Suspension and Handling Improvements

Gabura upgraded the i8’s suspension system to handle the increased power and improve cornering performance. Enhancements included:

• Installing a race-tuned coilover suspension.
• Adding larger brakes for better stopping power.
• Fine-tuning the steering for improved precision.

Performance Gains of the Modified BMW i8

The modifications made by Gabura Racing Technologies catapulted the BMW i8 into the supercar category. Here are some of the performance stats of the modified i8:

• Horsepower: 800+ (compared to the stock 369).
• 0-60 mph: Approximately 3 seconds (down from 4.2 seconds).
• Top Speed: Over 200 mph (compared to the stock 155 mph).
• Weight-to-Power Ratio: Significantly improved due to weight reduction and added power.

Why Did Gabura Racing Technologies Choose the BMW i8?

Gabura Racing Technologies selected the BMW i8 for modification due to its unique combination of futuristic design and lightweight construction. While the stock i8 lacked the raw power of traditional supercars, its innovative chassis and aerodynamic styling provided a perfect foundation for a high-performance transformation.

Moreover, the i8’s hybrid reputation made Gabura’s modifications even more impressive, as they managed to turn an eco-friendly car into a track-ready beast.

How Do These Modifications Compare to Other Tuned Supercars?

The Gabura-modified BMW i8 stands out in the world of tuned supercars for several reasons:

• Unique Starting Point: Unlike traditional supercars, the i8 began as a hybrid sports car, making its transformation more remarkable.
• Balanced Performance: Gabura’s modifications strike a balance between power, aesthetics, and handling.
• Rarity: Few tuning companies have dared to modify the BMW i8 to this extent, making Gabura’s version a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Conclusion

Gabura Racing Technologies’ modifications to the BMW i8 represent a bold reimagining of what this hybrid sports car can achieve. By replacing the hybrid powertrain with a monstrous V8 engine and adding a host of performance upgrades, Gabura transformed the i8 into a true supercar. Their work demonstrates the potential of innovative engineering and customization, proving that even eco-friendly cars can deliver jaw-dropping performance.

For car enthusiasts and tuning fans, the Gabura-modified BMW i8 is an inspiring example of how to push boundaries and redefine possibilities in the automotive world.

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