The performance figures are simply not there for the i8 at the price range they are selling it for.
The price range of $130k to $150k can buy you a lot of other better/faster performance cars.
There is the performance driven market segment, which the i8 won't capture.
There are many better performing cars than the i8 from the $60k to $150k range.
There is the environmentally-friendly market segment, which the i8 won't capture... because the Model S is more environmentally friendly AND it performs ALMOST as good as the i8.
You have to keep in mind that the 0 to 100km/h in 4.4 or 4.5 seconds for the i8 is in the sports mode/performance mode which means = bad mileage/energy saving.
The Model S... is cheaper by $30,000 or more (for the most expensive S model), and it does 0 to 100 in 4.6 seconds, which is very close to the i8, and it is 100% electric.
2013 Tesla Model S Test - Review - Car and Driver
The market segment that will be interested are due to the looks which is very,very unique.
I really think that BMW came out with the i8 to increase brand awareness and to promote it as the "halo" car even though they won't sell many of it.
They are using it to sell other cars, most notably the i3.
But, the looks..... is just amazing and unique.