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During the 2009 IAA show in Frankfurt, BMW has released the futuristic-looking Vision Efficient Dynamics concept. While not planned for production, the plug-in diesel-electric sports car is a showcase for the Bavarian firm's hybrid technology, lightweight body construction and numerous innovations. The concept with the gullwing doors is powered by a 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbodiesel engine and two electric motors generating a combined output of up to 356-horsepower and 800Nm or 590 lb-ft of peak torque.

That's good enough to launch the car from rest to 100km/h (62mph) in 4.8 seconds and on to an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h or 155mph.

BMW says that the Vision EfficientDynamics returns a combined fuel consumption of 3.76 lt/100 km which is equal to 62.6 mpg US and that the car can run for about 50km (31 miles) in pure electric mode. Electric energy is stored in lithium-ion battery pack that can be fully recharged in 2.5 hours through a standard 220 V power outlet.