More details have emerged about BMW’s i8 plug-in sports car including that it nets 104.2 mpg on the European drive cycle, will sprint to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds, and no non-hybrid variants are being considered.

The 2+2 made with carbon fiber body and aluminum alloy rolling chassis had previously been rumored to be a candidate for V8 or V10-powered with no battery and electrics, but BMW said this line will highlight its electrification ethic, and represents a forerunner of more to come.

Power for the 3,197-pound car therefore comes from a hybrid drivetrain consisting of a three-cylinder, 1.5-liter turbo delivering 223 horsepower, 295 foot-pound of torque to the rear wheels; front wheels are powered by a 170-horsepower electric motor.

The low-slung vehicle employs sophisticated multi-mode drivetrain control, feeding power through a four-speed transmission, and can switch from front-, or rear- or all wheel drive – with up to 393 horsepower, and 406 pound-feet of torque available.

Top speed is said to be 156 mph, but when sedate low-emissions driving is desired, its electric-only range is estimated at 20 miles.

Recharge time can reportedly range from six hours to less than one hour using a fast charger.

BMW says only the price will top €100,000 ($133,000) when it debuts in 2014, and expects to sell around 10,000 units per year.

CAR Magazine via AutoGuide.