BMW hasn’t technically unveiled its Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid at the Paris Motor Show, but a keen eye on the show floor spotted the hybrid flagship sans cover before its big debut. As previously reported, the Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is more of a pre-production prototype than a real concept — something our up close encounter confirmed.

The 7-series hybrid will use a mild hybrid system that was co-devolved with Daimler. As you may recall, Mercedes-Benz recently launched its first vehicle to use the mild hybrid technology in the form of the S400 BlueHYBRID. Both vehicles will be among the first hybrids to use lithium-ion technology.

Unlike some hybrid systems, the mild hybrid system isn’t capable of powering the vehicle in an all-electric mode. However, the 7-series hybrid will use regenerative braking to help charge its lithium-ion battery pack.

Whereas most hybrids focus exclusively on high fuel mileage, the 7-series hybrid will be skewed more towards performance, thanks to its 4.4L turbocharged V8. In Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid guise, that powerplant puts out 407 horsepower and 442 lb-ft or torque, with an electric motor adding 20 horsepower and a stout 155 lb-ft or torque. BMW failed to release any performance figures for the hybrid, but we suspect the 7-series hybrid could be just a tad quicker than its 750i gasoline counterpart.

Like the Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHYBRID, the Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid puts a premium on passenger and luggage space. Although its compact hybrid drivetrain doesn’t return the same economy as a full-scale hybrid system — the 7-series hybrid is expect to return an average fuel economy figures in the low 20s — it allows for a full-size trunk and passenger compartment, unlike the Lexus LS600h.

No word on pricing but the road-going 7-series hybrid is expect to hit the market in 2009. Check back for more info and live pictures from the Paris Motor Show floor.

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