It isn't unusual for automakers to utilize performers or models to provide a visual kick for their press conference. In fact, we're fairly sure this isn't the first time we've seen flipping breakdancers. Though it made taking pictures of the car quiet difficult (the smoke didn't help either), it was at least entertaining.

The real surprise didn't come until the point where, most assumed, the dancers would move and we'd get to take a picture of the car. Instead, at least 20 pre-teens in black outfits with orange baseball lids came running out from behind the car. The purpose? To deliver orange carnations to the assembled press. There was no real explanation for either the dancers or the kids with flowers, but we assume it's either a German thing or the Germans think, after seeing a few Anne Geddes portraits, cute kids is our thing.

Whatever the reason, we laid our flower out in front of the Hummer display as a sign of respect.

As we mentioned last night, the Volkswagen Bluesport concept is powered by a 180 HP turbodiesel motor mounted amidship. Despite its concept status, VW is promising fairly realistic performance. This includes a 0-60 MPH time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 140 MPH. Though not Prius-killing, the 42 MPG combined mileage (we're guessing in the European cycle) is impressive for a sports car and would surely top any known competitors.

As for production, there's no definite word though the design looks closer to a production vehicle than most we've seen. The highlight of the VW press conference? Listening to President and CEO of Volkswagen of America Stefan Jacoby pronounce Chatanooga was high on the list. But the breakdancers who introduced the car, followed by the dozens of carnation-wielding kids, take the cake.

While most concept cars do 0-60 “in a unicorn’s fart” and return “infinity MPG” according to the manufacturer, the Bluesport has decidedly unimpressive numbers. How’s 0-60 in 6.2 seconds, 35 MPG in the notoriously optimistic European cycle and a 140 MPH top speed sound? Decent, but hardly the stuff dreams are made of. Which is why we believe the VW Bluesport Roadster stands half a chance at production.

While the Bluesport mounts its oil burner amidships, the six-speed dual-clutch gearbox is up front, resulting in a 45:55 front/rear weight distribution. The wheelbase is 96 inches, the front track is 58.”5, the rear 60 and there’s trunks front and rear. The interior also looks seriously nice. The whole package comes in at a distinctly realistic 2,600 Lbs.

Do we want a Diesel roadster? We’re not sure. Will majority shareholder Porsche let VW build a Boxster rival? Who knows. [Source of Embargo break: Auto Motor Und Sport]