Bentley's Power Leap: From W12 Muscle to 740bhp Hybrid Beast
In an audacious move marking the end of an era, Bentley has revealed plans to phase out its cherished W12 engine, making way for a groundbreaking V8-based plug-in hybrid system. This new powertrain is not just any replacement; it boasts a formidable output of over 740bhp, signaling Bentley's unwavering commitment to blending performance with environmental stewardship.
The British luxury marque hasn't skimped on details, promising a 'four-figure torque over a wider plateau,' which hints at an ambition to match or even surpass the 738lb ft of torque offered by the W12 in the Batur—a limited edition that showcased the pinnacle of what Bentley engines can achieve.
Yet, the intrigue doesn't stop with mere numbers. Bentley has set sights on a future where lavish performance and sustainability coexist. The firm reveals that this innovative V8 hybrid setup will offer drivers the luxury of a 50-mile electric-only range, coupled with CO2 emissions dipping below 50g/km. This is not just a step forward; it's a giant leap towards a cleaner, greener future for high-performance luxury motoring.
Models such as the Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur are poised to be the first to benefit from this revolutionary powertrain later this year, replacing their current V8 and W12 engines. This signifies a pivotal shift in Bentley's strategy, focusing on a blend of performance and efficiency that was once considered incongrivable in the luxury car segment.
The Bentayga, Bentley's foray into the SUV market, will continue to offer a pure-combustion engine option until 2026, after which it, too, will embrace the hybrid-only pathway. This strategy highlights Bentley's holistic approach to electrification, balancing the demand for traditional powertrains while ushering in the era of electrification.
The company's pivot towards plug-in hybrid technology follows the announcement of significant investment into PHEVs, underlining them as a 'transitional technology.' This move not only showcases Bentley's commitment to reducing CO2 emissions but also to acclimatizing its clientele to electrified driving—a strategy endorsed by the former CEO, Adrian Hallmark, as part of the luxury brand's journey towards its first battery-electric vehicle debut slated for late 2026.
However, the path to electrification has not been without its hurdles. Delays in the development of the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) have pushed back Bentley's plans. Yet, this postponement is seen not as a setback but as an opportunity to further refine the upcoming electric vehicle's advanced driver assistance systems, ensuring that when Bentley finally unveils its all-electric marvel, it will set new standards in luxury electric motoring.
In essence, Bentley's bold move to replace the iconic W12 engine with a more potent, eco-friendly hybrid system marks the beginning of a new chapter. This strategy not only reinforces Bentley's pioneering status in the luxury automotive sector but also demonstrates a firm commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the evolving demands of the modern luxury car buyer.