The BMW i8 has become something of an iconic car ever since the company showed it off as a concept back in 2009 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The car represents the German manufacturer’s first attempt at a pug-in hybrid supercar. The sustainably-focused sports car is part built in BMW’s wind-powered factory in Dusseldorf and has a design focus on using sustainable materials.

However, the car’s engines are produced at BMW’s Hams Hall manufacturing facility near Birmingham. The new three-cylinder engine is capable of powering the i8 from 0 to 60mph in less than 4.5 seconds, all while the vehicle delivers as much as 135mpg.

Transport minister Baroness Kramer said that the engine is a perfect demonstration of the UK’s commitment to the low-carbon transport. She said:

“The British-made engine for this ground-breaking car demonstrates that the UK automotive industry is at the forefront of the production of high-quality, low emission car technology. As our recent commitment to invest £500 million in ultra-low emission vehicle design, production and adoption shows, we want the UK to be a world leader in the global transition to ultra-low emission motoring.”

Read more: Next Energy News