Photo: Bentley
Bentley has just made a big step towards a greener model lineup with its first plug-in hybrid concept based on an actual production model. We're talking about the mesmerizing Mulsanne marvel which is standing before our eyes right before its big debut at the upcoming 2014 Beijing Auto Show. The British marque believers such cars will be common in its lineup by the year 2020, so let's examine what this could mean and what compromises they're going to make.
The plug-in hybrid system fitted to the Mulsanne makes for a power increase of up to 25 percent while at the same time slashing CO2 emissions by 70 percent. Only Bentley could think of adding power to a green car. However, they also plan on delivering at least 50 km (31 miles) of electric driving range, which is similar to what other premium companies promise. If you decide to take an upside down view of the hybrid, it's a way for rich people to enjoy 12 cylinders... responsively.
You'd think that a Bentley model designed to be more efficient would have the 4-liter twin-turbo V8 recently fitted to the Flying Spur, but that's not the case. Under the bonnet of the car, we find the "6 3/4 LITRE" badge, the gentlemen's big motor of choice.
The first production plug-in hybrid Bentley will offer is not the Mulsanne, but "the all-new SUV available in 2017".
As a thing to look at, the Bentley Hybrid Concept is mouthwateringly gorgeous. The Mulsanne, which was already a beautiful car, is now awash with lots of copper accents, both inside and out. Its look is also applied to the charging station, which we believe is the most elegant in the world right now.
Copper is used for elements like the headlamps, brake calipers, radiator grille, badges and trim. You'll even find it on the dials and under the bonnet. This is not a hybrid gimmick, it's a Bentley that somebody would buy right now if it were on sale.
Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “There is no doubt that plug-in hybrid technology is true to Bentley’s values of outstanding luxury and effortless performance. 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% of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid. We are proud to be pioneering these developments in the luxury sector.”
You'd think that a Bentley model designed to be more efficient would have the 4-liter twin-turbo V8 recently fitted to the Flying Spur, but that's not the case. Under the bonnet of the car, we find the "6 3/4 LITRE" badge, the gentlemen's big motor of choice.
As a thing to look at, the Bentley Hybrid Concept is mouthwateringly gorgeous. The Mulsanne, which was already a beautiful car, is now awash with lots of copper accents, both inside and out. Its look is also applied to the charging station, which we believe is the most elegant in the world right now.
Copper is used for elements like the headlamps, brake calipers, radiator grille, badges and trim. You'll even find it on the dials and under the bonnet. This is not a hybrid gimmick, it's a Bentley that somebody would buy right now if it were on sale.
Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “There is no doubt that plug-in hybrid technology is true to Bentley’s values of outstanding luxury and effortless performance. 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% of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid. We are proud to be pioneering these developments in the luxury sector.”
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