Times are changing fast in the automotive world and even traditional companies have to keep with the latest trends. Ignoring alternative drive systems is not an option anymore if a carmaker wants to meet ever-stricter emissions regulations, and Bentley makes no exception.
That’s why the British luxury firm will unveil its first-ever plug-in hybrid powertrain at the upcoming Beijing Auto Show with the Mulsanne-based Hybrid Concept.
Bentley says the hybrid powertrain will debut on its all-new SUV in 2017. According to the automaker, the plug-in hybrid system will offer a power increase of up to 25 percent together with a 70 percent reduction in CO2 emissions. Bentley says its hybrids will also have an all-electric driving range of at least 50 km (31 miles). The carmaker didn’t give specific details on the hybrid system, but on the Mulsanne study the petrol engine is the well-known 6.75-liter V8 unit.
“Combining our renowned engines with electric power reinforces and enhances both principles, and so we will gradually introduce this powertrain across our model range. By the end of the decade, at least 90 percent of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid,” said Bentley CEO Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber.
The Mulsanne showcar features a copper exterior and interior treatment highlighting the car’s electrical nature, including copper details to the headlamps, radiator shell bezel, brake calipers, feature line details and badges.
On the inside, copper accents are continued with inserts to the hand-crafted veneers fascias, switch bezels and instruments. The Mulliner Driving Specification diamond-quilted interior also features copper cross‑stitching.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
