French manufacturer Citroen has recently released renderings of its Hypnos Hybrid CUV Concept, destined for debut at this year’s Paris Motor Show. The results, typically for Citroen, are quite unique. While you could be forgiven for mistaking this for some of Mazda’s recent concept works, the differentiation becomes obvious when you take a look inside.

While the exterior falls inline with recent style trends in hybrid concepts, the interior takes a notably different approach. The bejeweled and ‘DNA helix-inspired’ interior raises some interesting questions regarding ergonomics and practicality. (But, given these images are renders, not photos, it’s unlikely we’ll see anything quite as dramatic when the covers are removed… perhaps Citroen will surprise us.)

The proposed engine configuration is one area of this concept that we hope will make production. Reported to produce 150kWs, in addition to an undisclosed figure from the electric half of the set-up, the hybrid powerplant is claimed to sip fuel at a frugal 5.5l/100kms.

While concept vehicles often stray a long way from reality, it’s not too much of a stretch to imagine that we may see something like this from Citroen in the not-too-distant future. After all, Citroen has always challenged conventional wisdoms in automotive design and technology.