Chelsea, Michigan - For some, Chrysler's ecoVoyager Concept looks like a private jet. Others see an egg on four wheels. The most cynical critics will compare it to the Previa of the nineties.

This prototype of a futuristic sedan is ultra-modern yet ultra-simple.

Introduced in January at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, this prototype of a futuristic sedan (only 1.4-centimeter shorter than a Chrysler Sebring) is ultra-modern yet ultra-simple. We had the opportunity to get a closer look at the vehicle during the 2009 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep model presentation at the automaker's Chelsea Proving Grounds in Michigan.

A view from every angle
The originality of this concept can be found in the plethora of unique details, starting with the panoramic glass roof. Then there's the "spine" that dissects the vehicle from the trapezoidal grille to the similarly-shaped rear fascia and taillights. This center ridge is reminiscent of the Bugatti T57 SC Atlantic of the late thirties.

A tight front overhang emphasizes the tapered nose of the car. Such body configuration not only provides excellent visibility for the driver but also maximizes interior room. In the back, the streamlined body culminates in an equally tight overhang, making for a squat-looking rear end that resembles an upside-down boat stern.

The sides are enhanced by thin decks which give more purpose to the car, while bold, intersecting character lines convey a sense of speed and athleticism. These elements are merely aesthetic but they sure make this clean design look sleeker and sharper.

Hydrogen and electricity
As the name suggests, the Chrysler ecoVoyager is a green vehicle. The under-floor electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. The available range reportedly allows a typical driver to complete about a 60-kilometer daily commute to work and back. It can be increased through regenerative braking, an advanced system allowing for otherwise lost energy during braking to be re-used.

What's more, the car moves forward with surprising authority. The hybrid powertrain of the ecoVoyager develops 268 horsepower and allows 0-100 km/h accelerations in less than 9 seconds.

The curvy design features tight overhangs as well as an impressive greenhouse.

Optimized ergonomics
Making access easier to the four bucket seats are four doors that open 90 degrees in opposite directions. The lack of B-pillars and the underfloor placement of the entire hybrid drivetrain also combine to offer free, unimpeded access to the cabin.

The Chrysler ecoVoyager is a green vehicle motivated by an electric motor and a hydrogen fuel cell.

The dashboard is pretty much the exact opposite of what we're used to. A vast, leather-clad surface lies between the steering wheel and the huge, anti-glare instrument cluster at the base of the windshield. Small displays at each end show the real-time images captured by the sideview cameras, which replace traditional mirrors. A third camera in the back serves as a rearview mirror.

The driver looks at the gauges over the steering wheel and not through it. Consequently, your eyes spend less time moving up and down and you get used to the information more quickly.

The highly-supportive seats are designed to maximize comfort. Each one includes a small storage compartment underneath it. The controls for the power windows and heating/massage settings for the seats are located inside the adjustable armrests. Finally, the rear center console can hold up to six bottles of your favorite beverage -- and keep them cool/warm too. I guess the automaker's innovative Chill Zone is here to stay...

The dashboard displays the vital data and the real-time images captured by three cameras replacing the traditional mirrors.

Photos: Luc Gagné, Amyot Bachand, Chrysler