The BMW EfficientDynamics concept was first shown off at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor show. Two years later, the Bavarian automaker unveiled a redesigned version of the plug-in sports car, with a new name: The BMW i8. The company promised that the i8 concept was close to a production run, and with the recent confirmation of official specs, BMW of Ridgefield is inclined to believe it.

So what else can BMW do to keep us interested in the BMW i8 between now and its launch? Many are simply thrilled to feast their eyes on its one-of-a-kind style. There has never been a production BMW model like it. Still, others yearn for more information... More news... More of, well, the BMW i8.

And that's exactly what BMW plans to give them with the introduction of the BMW i8 Concept Spyder. It's a roofless version of the plug-in sports car, with a few other changes that may or may not make it into the production version of the original coupe variant. For instance, the BMW i8 Concept Spyder features a more traditional center console, with an iDrive knob, climate control system, and physical buttons. And while it's a topless vehicle, that doesn't mean the cabin is more exposed. The doors on the BMW i8 Concept Spyder are made with the same thermoplastic as the rest of the vehicle - unlike the original model, which has translucent glass doors.

What excites us the most about the BMW i8 Concept Spyder is that it's been confirmed for production alongside the original. And with both looking like they'll make it here by 2013 as 2014 models, we suggest staying tuned for more info.