BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept revealed (photos)

The Vision is powered by a 3-cylinder turbocharged and direct injected diesel engine that is supplemented by two electric engines, one at each axle.

Direct injection and a variable intake geometry turbocharger help the diesel engine to output 163 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of peak torque to the rear wheels through BMW's six-speed DCT transmission.

The rear electric motor outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 horsepower. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 pound-feet.

A second electric motor at the front axle offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 pound-feet.

Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 pound-feet. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph is achieved in 4.8 seconds, and top speed is an electronically limited 155 mph.

Diesels are thrifty vehicles, as are hybrid vehicles. So it should come as no surprise that this hybrid diesel achieves an average fuel consumption of 62.6 mpg in the EU test cycle.

The vehicle's low, sleek design results in an overall vehicle drag coefficient of just 0.22.

The Vision employs a good deal of lightweight composites in its bodywork and its chassis and suspension are made completely of lightweight aluminum.

The Vision concept's can open to allow airflow to the radiator (as seen here), or close when cooling is unnecessary, such as when operating under full electric power, to increase aerodynamic efficiency.

Out back, the Vision's unorthodox LED tail lamp array integrates into the concept's organic bodywork.

Ventilation and aerodynamics are integrated into the Vision's bodywork and are indiscernible from each other.

Wheel covers that extend over the tire feature aerodynamic molding that reduce the drag generated by the rotating rolling stock.

The Vision's 2+2 seating configuration offers space for four passengers. Its clear composite roof and bodywork respond to light by darkening to block UV rays.

BMW says that the Vision's doors open like a bird's, but we think they're more insect-like. The upper hinge of the vertically opening door doubles as the mounting point for the high-mounted side-view mirrors.

The Vision's interior is notably void of a center stack or noticeable ventilation, and features very few controls.

This 3D head-up display is located where the instrument cluster would usually be situated.

The system features integrated 3D navigation.

The four bucket seats each feature an integrated safety belt for a clean, uncluttered interior.

Just like the exterior, interior ventilation is integrated into the flowing design of the cabin.

A rotary controller is situated on the center tunnel, just aft of the gear selector. Is this our first peek at the iDrive of the future? Probably not.

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept will debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show alongside the X6 and 7 Series hybrids.