The upcoming diesel version of the Bentley Bentayga luxury SUV will use electrically boosted turbocharging.
The information was confirmed to Autonews Europe by a lead engineer in the company. Basically, Bentley will use the same technology that Audi will debut on a vehicle next year, most likely the high-performance version of the Q7. E-charging is known to reduce turbo lag while increasing power and decreasing fuel consumption.
While Bentley is already testing prototype versions of the diesel Bentayga, the company hasn’t offered a timetable for the diesel introduction nor has it confirmed it will be available in the United States.
The engine remains a secret for now, although it could be a 3.0-liter V6 TDI such as the one Audi fitted to the RS5 TDI Competition Concept to demonstrate the technology. Thanks to the e-charger, power was lifted to 435PS (429hp). Besides increasing the power output, the e-charger also improves drivability on diesels by boosting torque low down in the rev range.
The Bentayga will be able to accommodate the technology thanks to the introduction of the 48-volt electric system. The more powerful setup is needed to supply the 7 to 8 kilowatts of power the e-charger needs. It is also used for the car’s “active roll control” dynamic ride system that can decouple the anti-roll bars for a smoother ride.
For now it is not clear whether the Dieselgate scandal will delay the introduction of the technology.
PHOTO GALLERY
