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The Ultimate Bentley Continental GT Mulliner

Bentley has placed a new version of its Continental GT Mulliner at the very top of the range and this is the ultimate version. It is the most powerful, fastest, most dynamic and most luxurious Continental GT yet created by the carmaker.

The new GT Mulliner W12 takes the best of all worlds to become the ultimate Continental GT. It combines the performance and dynamism of the Speed, the comfort of the recently-announced Azure, and the flair of Mulliner handcraftsmanship.

The W12 TFSI engine, handcrafted at Bentley’s carbon neutral factory in England, delivers 659 ps/900 Nm to take the grand tourer to a claimed top speed of 335 km/h after passing 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds from take-off. The new engine is an uprated version of Bentley’s 6-litre W12 TSI engine with a 4% increase in power over the standard W12 model.

A combination of four chassis technologies give the new Mulliner model a level of agility, performance and ride quality that has been stretched to new levels. Bentley Dynamic Ride and three-chamber active air suspension with adaptive damping play a key role in the balance of the car. The optional and newly-developed Carbon Ceramic Brakes, Variable Electronic Stability Control, All Wheel Steering, and an Electronic Limited Slip Differential bolster the agility and performance even further.

Combining the new systems delivers Bentley’s philosophy that a vehicle should feel progressive and secure, yet still be dynamic. To achieve this philosophy in BENTLEY and COMFORT mode, overall grip is balanced between the front and rear wheels while, in SPORT, this mode has been calibrated with a more rear-biased torque–split in all driving scenarios.

Bentley’s 3-chamber active air suspension with adaptive damping, and Bentley Dynamic Ride provide control and comfort. The 48V active anti-roll control system was originally pioneered on the Bentayga and third-generation Continental GT, and is now tuned even further with the knowledge and learning since the systems introduction.

This innovative system features powerful electric motors within each anti-roll bar to resist body roll. In their firmest setting, the motors can deliver 1,300 Nm in 0.3 seconds to counteract cornering forces and keep the body level.

The Electronic All-Wheel Steering enhances the dynamic nature of the Continental GT Mulliner W12 in each of the driving modes. This is even more apparent in SPORT mode, as the steering combines with Bentley Dynamic Ride and the electronic limited slip differential for a level of agility unlike any other Bentley road car, utilising up to 4° of steering lock on the rear wheels.

The eLSD allows true active torque vectoring across the rear axle, which is then fine-tuned with torque-vectoring by brake systems. Together, these technologies improve turn-in and provide exception traction on corner exit – and, of course, allow the keen driver to induce slip angles and to balance the car on the throttle.

The cabin is one defined by luxury and showcases a level of choice and customisation that Mulliner is well known for. A unique colour split is exclusive to the car, with a new combination of primary and secondary hide joined by a third colour through a flowing design line. Eight different 3-colour combinations are proposed by Mulliner, using Bentley’s palette of hides and threads to create striking yet elegant contrast throughout the cabin.

“Diamond in Diamond” quilting to the seats, door trims and rear quarter panels is made up of almost 400,000 stitches with each diamond containing exactly 712 individual stitches. Naturally these are available in a spectrum of coloured threads, too.

For the driver, the brushed-metal finish of the Breitling clock is carried through from the physical world to the digital, with a unique design to the main gauges of the LED main instruments cluster where careful skeuomorphic design and the application of digital textures makes the virtual dials look like real metal.

The GT family now spans a range of models each with a different emphasis, to make customer choice easier. The Azure range is for those prioritising wellbeing and on-board comfort, while those customers wishing to concentrate on driving pleasure can specify the new V8-powered GT S. Going one step further, the W12-powered Speed is the pure driver’s car. And above all these sits the Mulliner.

FEATURE – The German engine that was born on a Japanese bullet-train

Bentley S model gets a hybrid powertrain for the first time ever

Following its recently launched Continental GT S and GT S Convertible, Bentley has now added the new Flying Spur S to complete its new driver-focused S range. This is the first time that Bentley’s historic ‘S’ badge has been applied to a product with a hybrid powertrain, and is another step towards Beyond100, Bentley’s vision of the future and sustainable pathway forwards.

Suited to those who are city-based or environmentally-focused, the smaller 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine works with an advanced electric motor. Total system output is 544 ps/750 Nm which can send the Flying Spur S from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 4.1 seconds. With a fully charged battery pack, it can travel up to 41 kms on just electricity.

The Flying Spur Hybrid S (whilst in Sport mode) features ingenious sound enhancements in the engine bay that match the more sporting character of the car for the driver while maintaining low sound levels in the rear cabin.

Besides the hybrid powertrain, there is also a second choice for customers who are not particularly concerned about fuel prices. This is Bentley’s 4-litre V8 engine developing 550 ps/770 Nm. This can send the car from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 4 seconds, and on to a top speed of almost 320 km/h.

Purposeful, understated exterior
The black brightware of the Flying Spur S models creates an athletic and understated look, whatever the chosen exterior finish. With the absence of bright polished metal highlights, the eye is ‘encouraged’ to take in the vehicle’s form and perceive it as lower and wider – the essence of a sporting Bentley.

The effect is complemented by gloss black lower bumper grilles, dark tinted headlamps and rear lights, black quad tailpipe finishers and distinctive S badging on the front fenders. The grille is black gloss with vertical vanes and black gloss surround. Only the winged Bentley badge and lettering on the bootlid stand out with their bright chrome finish.

Performance focussed interior
Customers can choose from a variety of performance-focused two-tone colour splits, handcrafted in Bentley’s leather shop using a combination of smooth hide and soft-napped Dinamica. This suede-like material is used for the heated steering wheel, gearlever, seat cushions and seat backrests while leather hide is employed on the seat bolsters, door pads, along the instrument panel and around the console.

The S design seats are fluted, with quilting available as an option, and the ‘S’ emblem is embroidered on the headrest of each seat. Driver instrumentation takes its inspiration from motorsport chronometers, with the same graphics as the Continental GT Speed. There are also finishing touches that include a metal S signature badge on the fascia and illuminated Bentley treadplates with the ‘S’ device replacing the Bentley Motors Ltd plaque.

Bentley to launch 5 new hybrid models in 2022, first EV in 2025

Bentley’s Azure range goes beyond superlative comfort to the wellbeing of each passenger

At the very top end of the car market, the luxury models have long been known for their comfort, usually described in superlative terms. For limousines that cost over a million ringgit, the comfort experienced by the occupants must be nothing less than the best and engineers as well as interior designers work very hard to ensure this.

Now, besides comfort, the wellbeing of the occupants is also given a greater deal of attention. Certainly, when one travels in a Bentley, the experience will also provide a heightened sense of wellbeing, but the company now wants to deliver driver and passengers to their destination more relaxed than when they set off.

With the new Azure range that will be available across the full Bentley model line-up, the occupants will have a curated selection of features designed to enhance wellbeing and comfort. The aim is that at journey’s end, they will step out feeling refreshed, alert and ready to resume their busy lives.

The science of wellbeing
But what actually promotes wellbeing? To analyse and develop Bentley’s new concept of ‘wellbeing behind the wheel’, the Azure development team engaged a creative neuroscientist to work with them. Considering everything from light, to the patterns we see around us, to the impact of in-car posture and the importance and thermal comfort, the neuroscientist’s research paired with Bentley’s own measurements to give science-based analysis to the relaxing experience of travelling in a Bentley, as a driver or a passenger.

The two most crucial influences over onboard relaxation are ride comfort and NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness). Research that tracked thousands of people over a 4-year period found that those exposed to traffic noise over 70 dB were 65% more at risk of depression.

Taking the new Bentayga EWB as an example, measurements showed it to be quieter inside than its competitors, by between 4% and 26%, depending on frequency and position inside the car. Secondary ride comfort is another key variable that affects onboard wellness – obviously, the smoother the ride, the more calming the journey. At typical road speeds and in the crucial frequency range of 5 Hz to 20 Hz, the Bentayga EWB has up to 27% lower secondary ride vibration than its competitors.

Science-Informed Design approach

Facts like these inspired Bentley’s team to adopt a Science-Informed Design approach, using a variety of interdisciplinary methods to create the most positive sensation of wellness and comfort for drivers and their passengers. And because a car is a multisensory environment, this approach involved designing not simply for the senses of vision, hearing, touch and smell but also for the position of our bodies (proprioception), gravity and acceleration (vestibular), temperature and even the body’s internal sensation (interoception).

Escaping the outside world into a personalised environment, with less outside noise, that could otherwise reduce attention, impact memory and increase stress response. Where once a vehicle acoustic engineer would have focused on the suppression of NVH as much as possible to create the quietest possible cabin environment, the focus is now is also on the quality of sound.

“We have to understand how we all detect and respond to sounds and then work out how to engineer those sounds into the components that make a Bentley,” explained Bentley Acoustics Engineer Andy Jackson. “We balance the sound from the vehicle and cocoon the occupants from outside world by minimizing sound penetration. We harmonise the acoustics with the other sensory inputs in the vehicle. The sound is literally in the vehicle’s DNA; it’s authentic and crafted.”

Most advanced seat design
Seating is one of the important elements too. It is important to keep the body in the right posture because when we slump, our bodies can take in as much as 30% less oxygen, affecting our ability to think and placing additional stress on the body.

This led to the most advanced seat ever fitted to the car – Bentley’s Airline Seat Specification. Available in the rear cabin, the seat has 22 ways of adjustment and world-firsts in a new auto climate sensing system and postural adjustment technology.

In Relax mode, the seat can recline to 40 degrees, whilst the passenger seat is motored forward and a footrest deploys from the back of the front passenger seat. In Business Mode, the seat moves into its most upright position to make working on the move more comfortable.

The Postural Adjustment function uses new thigh and shoulder pockets, plus additional lumbar massage pockets, to subtly yet continuously change the shape of the seat to ease pressure points around the body, preventing ‘dead spots’ and fatigue build-up. The use of air pockets enables more continuous and complex movements to be made – which are virtually imperceptible to the passenger – rather than the linear movements resulting from the use of seat motors.

The system goes beyond the 2D motions typical of adjustable seats, able to employ a 3-dimensional twist to relieve pressure points. Six independent pressure zones can provide 177 adjustments every 3 hours to ensure consistent seat comfort, regardless of the length of the journey. Studies have shown that actively supporting body weight in a dynamic way relieves strain, which can bring on mental stress and cause lack of focus. Natural supported postures have been shown to alleviate stress from tensed muscles.

Besides the heating and ventilation function in the seats which help to maintain the body’s optimum temperature for comfort and alertness, there is also a massage function with 6 programmable settings. This massage function promotes the constant micro-adjustments in muscle and posture that are so vital in preventing fatigue.

Even scent is important
When we see pleasing forms, shapes and colours, our brains release chemicals such as dopamine that not only make us feel good but are good for our body and sense of wellbeing. This led the Azure team to consult with neuroscientists to understand the interrelationship of colour, texture, tactility and even scent to create an atmosphere of relaxed serenity.

“Sensory receptors convert physical stimuli in neural activity, creating changes in our brain and nervous system. Every fabric, sound, motion, colour and touch continuously impacts our nervous system and the Azure cabin has been finessed accordingly,” said Maria Mulder, Head of Colour & Trim at Bentley Motors.

To that end, the Azure interior design specification includes ‘wellness quilting’ which has fractal patterns of precisely crafted diamond quilted upholstery creating an eye-pleasing interplay of light and shade. And while Bentley customers will always have access to the full range of wood veneers, the Azure range includes 3 open pore veneers with a softer, satin, reflective quality that can bring on a calm mood.

A personalised climate within
For most passengers, just having an environment with a comfortable temperature would be pleasant enough on any journey. But in a Bentley, there is Seat Auto Climate where each passenger can select their desired temperature. The contact temperature and surface humidity are then directly measured (cushion and backrest independently) and the heating and ventilation are adjusted to achieve the required temperature.

This is continuously monitored to ensure it remains constant as optimised body temperature is vital when the focus is on individual wellbeing. In studies that have manipulated body temperature via external means, it has generally been reported that cognitive function is reduced by decreasing body temperature below normal. A comfortable thermal environment can also alleviate fatigue, reduce irritability, and improve driving safety.

Bentley stretches the Bentayga to create a new flagship model

Bentley stretches the Bentayga to create a new flagship model

Rather than develop another new and bigger SUV model, Bentley has instead extended the wheelbase of the Bentayga to create a new luxury flagship. And it’s not been a cost-saving project either as the company reveals that it made a ‘9-figure investment’ for the development of the new model which has over 2,500 new parts and a complete new underfloor.

The new Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (or EWB) promises ‘the best rear cabin experience’ which should be acceptable to those who have been used to the Mulsanne limousine (now discontinued). Since its unveiling in 2015, the Bentayga has been a major success for the brand, ascending to become its bestseller. In 2021, the Bentayga accounted for just over a third of the 14,659 vehicles sold by Bentley and the EWB is eventually expected to make up 45% of all Bentayga sales. No doubt, many will be in China where long wheelbase models are highly favoured.

2022 Bentley Bentayga EWB — *Bentayga EWB (above) and Bentayga with the standard wheelbase (below).*

Increased length all for rear cabin
The current Bentayga is the second generation of the model and for the EWB, the wheelbase has been extended by 180 mm – from 2995 mm to 3175 mm to stretch the overall length to 5322 mm (in comparison, the BMW X7 is 5151 mm).

The increased length is all given to the rear section, creating a cabin space that is said to be larger than any other luxury competitor. The Bentayga EWB also provides an extra 10 mm of headroom compared to a Mulsanne, whilst having a roofline 100 mm lower than competitors providing a sporting and well-proportioned silhouette.

While it is recognisable as a Bentayga, there are 4 exterior differences that identify the EWB: the longer profile, a new front grille, a new polished 22-inch 10-spoke wheel, and a repositioned sunroof. Taking inspiration from the new grille on the Flying Spur, the Bentayga EWB has a ‘Vertical Vane Grille’ design that is visually striking. The unique grille consists of bright chrome vertical vanes sitting in front of a black mesh grille.

The repositioned panoramic sunroof illustrates the focus on the rear cabin ambience. It has been moved rearwards by 125 mm, providing the optimum position to bathe the rear cabin seating area in natural light. The sunroof can be controlled via the rear cabin Touch Screen Remote, as well as by the front cabin console.

Attention to wellness
‘Wellness’ seems to be a new trend in the development of cabin environments and to provide this at the highest level, there is the Bentley Airline Seat specification. This is the most advanced seat ever fitted to a car, with 22-ways of adjustment and postural adjustment technology.

The postural adjustment system automatically makes micro adjustments to the occupant’s seating position and pressure points, by measuring pressure across the seat surface. The system can apply 177 individual pressure changes across 6 fully independent pressure zones over a three-hour period improving comfort and minimising fatigue throughout a journey.

World-first climate control
Equally impressive is the new auto climate sensing system (a world-first) which senses occupant temperature and surface humidity and then determines whether to apply heat, ventilation or both simultaneously to keep the occupant at optimum thermal wellbeing. A comfortable thermal environment can also alleviate fatigue, reduce irritability, and this can help to improve driving safety as well.

Even without the advanced system the ventilation and air conditioning system in the rear cabin has been enhanced to further improve onboard wellness. The rear ventilation activates only when rear occupants are detected, reducing rear cabin fan noise. A separate air ionisation system that improves air quality with lower airborne particulates is dedicated to the rear section.

Superlative craftsmanship throughout
As with every Bentley, superlative craftsmanship is a given and the Bentayga EWB incorporates a more advanced stitching design created using digital craftsmanship. Diamonds can be seen elongating symmetrically from the centre of the seatbacks shoulder panels and along the length of the door, reflecting the extension in the car itself.

The new interior style of the longer rear doors also includes a unique design showcasing the optional ‘Metal Overlay in Veneer’. Using a thin metal strip just 0.07 mm thick, an intricate design is bonded by hand on the surface of the veneer before the part is lacquered and polished.

New features include Bentley Diamond Illumination (where light is emitted through small perforations in the soft feel door trim) which demonstrate how technology combines with contemporary craftsmanship to deliver incredibly modern design in luxurious materials. With 24 billion trim combinations alone (and a total number of possible specifications running into the trillions), the cabin of the Bentayga EWB is capable of offering the most individual Bentayga ever.

For the first time on a Bentley, power closing doors can be specified. Also fitted as standard are new ‘waterfall illumination’ interior lamps providing subtle illumination to the rear cabin. The illumination is focused towards the centre of car, and improves the passenger’s visibility of the key central controls and features.

Electronic All Wheel Steering
The Bentayga has been praised for its dynamic abilities, with impressive its performance on the road and in ride and handling. This is expected to also apply to the Bentayga EWB which has Electronic All Wheel Steering and Bentley Dynamic Ride as standard.

Though it will certainly be heavier than the other Bentayga models, the EWB should have equally muscular performance with the proven 4-litre, 32-valve dual twin-scroll turbocharged petrol engine. Mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, this 550 ps/770 Nm V8 can propel the Bentayga EWB to 100 km/h in a claimed 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h.

Production of the Bentayga starts during the fourth quarter of this year, with deliveries to the first customers taking place before the end of the year.

22-inch carbonfibre wheel for Bentley Bentayga from late 2021

Bentley to launch 5 new hybrid models in 2022, first EV in 2025

Every sector of the auto industry has to meet carbon-neutrality targets during this target and even the brands in the uppermost segments are not exempted although their volumes may be relatively lower. While all will eventually offer models powered only by electricity (battery electric vehicles or BEVs), the transition period will see hybrid powertrains being used for electrification. It is anticipated that more than 20% of sales this year will come from the brand’s hybrid models.

Bentley already started this transition a few years ago with the Bentayga Hybrid and has followed up with the Flying Spur Hybrid. It is continuing with development of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and has announced that 5 new models will be launched this year. As Bentley has only 5 model lines (including the Flying Spur and Bentayga), these new cars HEVs will likely be variants of the models, one of which will be the Continental GT.

*The Bentayga Hybrid (above) and Flying Spur Hybrid (below) will be joined by 5 more hybrid models in 2022.*

From 2025, the carmaker plans to launch one new BEV every year under its ‘Five-in-Five’ plan that is part of its Beyond100 strategy to reduce the brand’s environmental impact. Innovative steps will be taken to neutralise Bentley’s carbon footprint even further towards its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. These include a commitment that all its global retailers will be carbon-neutral by 2025 (or sooner), with production zero impact by 2030.

To realise this strategy, Bentley has committed a sustainable investment of £2.5 billion for product development as well as transforming the factory in Crewe, England, to become a ‘Dream Factory’ – a digital, zero environmental impact, flexible and high-value manufacturing facility.

The Crewe site is already a certified carbon neutral facility, and the next initiatives will be an extension of on-site energy production with solar power. Moreover, Bentley is investigating using sustainable biofuel in fleet cars, including its Heritage Collection.

“Beyond100 is the boldest plan in Bentley’s illustrious history, and in the luxury segment. It’s an ambitious and credible roadmap to carbon neutrality of our total business system, including the shift to 100% BEV in just 8 years,” said Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, which is part of the Volkswagen Group. “Our aim is to become the benchmark not just for luxury cars or sustainable credentials but the entire scope of our operations. Securing production of our first BEV in Crewe is a milestone moment for Bentley, and the UK, as we plan for a long-term sustainable future in Crewe.”

Bentley’s sales have continued to climb and the total of 14,659 vehicles delivered in 2021 exceeded by 31% the record volume set the year before. This achievement was driven by new model introductions, a fresh product portfolio and increasing demand for the hybrid models.

While the Americas region took the most vehicles (4,212 units), it was China where Bentley saw the biggest growth of 40% to 4,033 units. The Asia Pacific region posted an increase of 37% which was also said to be a record performance as 1,651 vehicles were delivered, against 1,203 sold in 2020.

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Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition previews future Bentley products

As part of its Beyond100 strategy, Bentley will pursue sustainability in every area of its business as well as the products it makes and sells. The journey has already begun and a limited edition of the Flying Spur Hybrid provides a preview of what will come.

The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition uses an advanced hybrid powertrain which can prove that hybridization will not compromise luxury or performance. The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor, generating a total of 544 ps/750 Nm (significantly more power than the Bentayga Hybrid). While able to cover the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in a claimed 4.3 seconds, the limousine is also said to have a range of over 700 kms when fully fuelled.

Sustainable materials throughout the cabin
New, even more sustainable materials are used throughout the cabin, directly reflecting design details showcased in Bentley’s centenary concept car. The cabin features panels of beautifully crafted tweed made from 100% British wool, twisting a blend of tonal colours into a bespoke yarn to create a unique natural luxury textile especially for Bentley.

The open-pore Koa veneer fascias and waistrails use 90% less lacquer than high-gloss veneers, and allow the natural surface texture and aesthetic of the wood to be enjoyed. Selected from only the very best, most figured stock available, open-pore veneer is painted with just three ultra-thin layers of lacquer, together totalling only 0.1 mm in thickness.

The centre console is finished in a sleek, minimalist Piano Linen veneer, while a dedicated tri-colour leather scheme lends the whole interior new depth. Together with new materials, sustainable leather is used widely across the cabin, thanks to its long-term durability. Indeed, Bentley’s own 1955 S1 Flying Spur was referenced during the design process, as the car still retains its original leather interior which, in spite of now being 66 years old, is still in immaculate condition.

Accents to the interior are in a soft, warm hide called Autumn, with customers able to choose from 5 specifications that utilize Beluga, Porpoise, Cricketball, Brunel or Burnt Oak leather in tandem with light, modern Linen hide. A unique Odyssean Edition treadplate becomes apparent when entering or exiting the car, and is matched with exterior D-pillar badging.

In common with the finishes seen in the EXP 100 GT interior, an exclusive new embroidery style sees thread colours blend calmly into one another across the width of each seat, defining and accentuating the ‘lofted diamond’ pattern unique to the Flying Spur – together creating a stunning effect employed here by Bentley for the first time.

On the exterior, painted Pale Brodgar accents on the 21-inch 10 twin-spoke wheels and lower brightware (front and rear bumpers, headlight and tail light surrounds and lower body side chrome) give a unique visual character. A curated exterior palette of six colours have been recommended to harmonise with the Pale Brodgar accents, but the full Bentley palette can be chosen from.

Real-world usage of Bentley Hybrids
As part of Bentley’s journey towards electrification and the Beyond100 strategy (delivering a product range composed entirely of plug-in hybrids or battery electric vehicles by 2026), a research activity has been undertaken to gain insights into customer usage of the Bentley Hybrid from owners.

Over 90% of owners use their first generation Bentayga Hybrid on a daily basis or several times a week and nearly 100% make use EV mode, which means running only on electrical power with zero emissions. Half of them consistently have journeys of less than 48 kms. In real-world terms, this means that the majority of the journeys, whether office commuting or school runs, can be achieved predominantly whilst producing zero emissions.

22-inch carbonfibre wheel for Bentley Bentayga from late 2021

The wheels for the first cars were made of wood, carrying over from the wheels of horse carriages. Eventually, metal was used, which provided much durability and complemented the auto industry’s manufacturing processes. Steel wheels were commonplace for many decades but as the need to reduce weight became more important, lightening the wheels led the industry to use aluminium alloy.

As the 1970s began, Michelin introduced in innovation for wheels – carbonfibre construction. The initial application was for a rallycar but before long, they were more widely available but still rare as they cost a great deal of money. It was only in 2013 that Koenigsegg offered monolithic carbonfibre wheels on its cars, with a set said to cost around US$40,000.

Why use carbonfibre?
One of the main advantages of using a composite material like carbonfibre is that it is lighter than steel or aluminium. The nature of the material also means it generates less noise and vibrations, making for a nicer, quieter ride. This makes such wheels desirable for luxury cars but their cost remains high.

After years of development with one of the world’s leading composite suppliers, Bentley now has a new carbonfibre wheel developed specifically for the Bentayga. The 22-inch wheel, engineered with Bucci Composites of Italy, is to be the largest carbonfibre wheel in production in the world. It offers a vast range of benefits beyond the initial 6-kg improvement in unsprung mass per wheel.

Meeting tough TUV standards
The new wheel has been subjected to the exceptionally rigorous TUV standards and is the first carbonfibre wheel ever produced to pass all tests. The newly developed rim has undergone the most rigorous testing for non-metallic wheels according to the new TUV standards including biaxial stress testing, radial and lateral impact testing for simulating potholes and cobblestones, tyre overpressure, and excessive torque tests exceeding the permitted limits.

One of the most severe tests of the TUV requirements – the impact test – has shown how the carbonfibre rim is extremely safe in addition to the performance benefits. After a severe impact which would crack or shatter an aluminium wheel, the carbonfibre rim allows a slow tyre deflation, thanks to the intelligent layering of fibre weaves, allowing the vehicle to come to a controlled, safe stop. This would be of great value to a vehicle like the Bentayga which has off-road capabilities.

The new wheel has also been subjected to extremely high speeds. Engineers ran numerous tests around the Nurburgring Nordschleife before final sign-off to go into production.

The technological benefits
Carbonfibre not only provides a significant weight saving, but also offers the additional benefits of increased strength and stiffness. This leads to increased safety – when the rim receives a high impact, the weave pulls apart leaving openings to allow gradual air loss rather than instant deflation like an aluminium rim.

There’s also increased steering agility, thanks to the weight saving and the high stiffness afforded by the properties of carbonfibre which create a more stable and consistent steering platform. In comparison, a forged aluminium rim can lose up to a degree of camber due to wheel flex, reducing grip and agility.

The driver will also have improved and more responsive braking due to the decrease in unsprung mass. Reduced tyre wear is also a long-term benefit as the stiffer carbonfibre rim does not suffer from the same amount of bending. It therefore allows for greater tyre stability and a more consistent contact patch on a larger tyre support surface.

The production processes
One of the main innovations lies in the rim manufacturing process, which involves the application of innovative concepts (covered by patents) combined with the use of high-pressure RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding). The materials and production parameters have been carefully studied to ensure the repeatability of the product without affecting its quality.

The process involves the cutting of carbonfibre cloth into prescribed shapes. The weave segments are then stacked, heated and draped into a mould to create three-dimensional preforms. The preforms are collated and arranged into a larger mould before resin and hardener is injected throughout. After curing time at temperature, the component assembly is removed from the mould, and the final surfaces are machined to the correct finish, before polishing.

Joining Mulliner products in late 2021
The new carbonfibre wheel for the Bentayga will be join Bentley’s existing carbonfibre products, which include the highly sought-after Styling Specification that adds a carbonfibre front splitter, sill extensions and rear diffuser, and the option of high gloss carbonfibre veneer to the interior.

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Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid joins Bentayga Hybrid

Continuing its journey towards electrification and carbon neutrality, Bentley Motors has introduced a hybrid powertrain for its third generation Flying Spur. Declaring the new variant as ‘the most environmentally friendly Bentley to date’, the introduction of the Flying Spur Hybrid establishes a family of Bentley hybrids for the first time.

In developing the hybrid powertrain, Bentley has made sure there are no compromises to luxury or performance. The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor (E-motor), delivering a total of 544 ps/750 Nm (21.5% more power than the Bentayga Hybrid). The E-motor is powered by a 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery and can be charged to 100% in as little as two and a half hours (depending on the region and facilities used). The power electronics convert the energy stored from the high-voltage battery to supply the E-motor or supplement the existing 12V vehicle electrical infrastructure.

In the early years of hybrids 20 years ago, performance was not a strong point. However, with advancements in the technology, it is now possible to have high performance in hybrids. The Flying Spur Hybrid has virtually similar capabilities as the Flying Spur V8 in acceleration, going from 0 to 100 km/h within a claimed 4.3 secs.

The combination of a highly efficient engine and the advanced E-Motor delivers the same flexibility and practicality associated with the W12 and V8 powertrains, achieving a responsive, engaging and refined experience. Using a constantly varying combination of engine and electric motor output, the Flying Spur Hybrid is claimed to be the most efficient Bentley ever, with a capability to cover over 700 kms on a full tank.

The interior of the Flying Spur Hybrid has a striking combination of the very latest integrated technology, beautiful materials and design prowess, combined with the features required for a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The automatic Start/Stop switch has been replaced with a control for the three E Modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode, enabling the driver to manage the battery usage during a journey. EV Drive mode is engaged as soon as the car is switched on, and maximises the electric driving experience. This is ideal for city driving and for shorter journeys.

The flow of energy can be viewed via the infotainment screen where statistics can be seen and the timers for charging of the vehicle can be set. Additional e-motion information is available to the driver via the instrument panel, heads up display and centre screen, including range, battery level and charging information.

To provide further feedback to the driver, the instruments include additional information showing when the car is operating solely in EV drive, regenerating whilst decelerating or using the combustion engine.

The Flying Spur Hybrid comes with a portfolio of intelligent and intuitive equipment tailored to the driver and passengers. An embedded SIM is provided, meaning My Bentley connected car features no longer require customers to provide their own data connection. My Bentley in-car and remote services is a continually-developing range of services available to customers through a dedicated app, available both on Apple iOS and Android mobile platforms.

As with every Bentley model, the Flying Spur Hybrid can be ordered from a range of over 67 exterior colours. The Blackline Specification offers a contemporary alternative to exterior brightware including a black version of the optional illuminated electrically deployed Flying B radiator mascot, and for a more contemporary exterior aesthetic.

Pricing starts from £160,000 in England (about RM921,000) and Bentley dealers are now accepting orders. The first customers can expect to receive their cars before the end of the year.

Shortened course prevents Bentley Continental GT3 from setting new record at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

As reported earlier, Bentley is participating in this year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, which took place in the American state of Colorado over the past few days. The car used this year is the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak and apart from its powerful 750+ bhp engine, it has also been tuned to run on renewable fuel.

On the course up the hill, the Continental GT3 proved to be the fastest car running on renewable fuel, finishing 2nd in the Time Attack 1 and 4th overall among all competitors. The car, driven by former ‘King of the Mountain’ Rhys Millen, crossing the finish line in 6:36.281 despite suffering a late engine issue. The time was good enough to beat all other sustainability-focused entrants, including fully electric competitors.

The course was shortened due to snow and ice near the 4,300-metre high summit of Pikes Peak. For safety reasons, the organisers repositioned the finish line at a point at 3,896 metres. This cut out the last third of the normal course which has 156 turns, many of them ‘open-air’ corners. The shortened route also meant that Bentley’s attempt to set a new record could not be achieved.

Nonetheless, the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak – regarded as ‘the most extreme road-going Bentley ever built’ – set a blistering pace over the first two sectors, entering the third and final sector 12 seconds ahead of its nearest rival. A few corners from the finish, a boost pressure problem meant 16 seconds were lost, dropping Millen back to second place in class.

“We know we had the pace today both to win our class, and to break the Time Attack 1 record. The weather sadly wasn’t with us though, with the shortened course meaning our assault on the record was never a possibility. While that’s a bitter pill to swallow, I’m proud to have entered such a strong renewably-powered racing car – the fastest at the event – and equally proud of the team that’s delivered this project. This is the first step on Bentley’s renewable fuel journey, and there will be many more opportunities to come. Perhaps we’ll even come back to Pikes Peak next year…,” said Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, Paul Williams.

Bentley’s participation in the 2021 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was the company’s third in recent years, following successful record runs in both a specially-prepared Bentayga (Production SUV record) and a Continental GT (outright Production Class record).

With regard to the RON98 Renewable Racing Fuel, this fuel is a dedicated blend of advanced biofuels specifically designed for motorsport. It is a technological stepping stone to sustainably-created eFuel with a greenhouse gas reduction of up to 85%.

Steering wheel of Bentley Continental GT3 for Pikes Peak Hill Climb can also be used for sim racing (w/VIDEO)

Steering wheel of Bentley Continental GT3 for Pikes Peak Hill Climb can also be used for sim racing (w/VIDEO)

Racing simulators are very realistic today, certainly a very, very big difference from the cartoon-like VGA displays of the early programs. And not only is the imagery photorealistic but even the hardware is sophisticated to replicate driving sensations as closely as possible.

Now, for even greater realism, Bentley and Fanatec have co-developed a unique steering wheel that can be used for both real and virtual motor racing. The wheel was designed specifically for the Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak challenge car, crafted from lightweight carbonfibre and magnesium alloy. The quick release system meets FIA standards, allowing it to connect to a real car and compatible FANATEC wheel bases.

For racing as well as display
It’s the first steering wheel of its kind to be actually used in a racing car, making it a highly desirable accessory for gamers. When not being used for driving a real Bentley or one in the virtual world, the steering wheel can be detached and displayed on a wall or desk, proudly posed on a special mount. If you need to take it around, a robust hard travelling case is also provided.

Powered by a USB connection, the wheel can be displayed as a clock inspired by the traditional timepiece found in the Continental GT. It can also replay preloaded race telemetry from famous laps, showing pedal and steering inputs, gear changes, G-meter, and a track map. The centre of the GT3 steering wheel houses a circular digital display that offers the driver vital telemetry and information about their performance. Exclusive Bentley design details include signature knurling on the rotary encoders.

Full functionality for racing car
Other key features include a forged carbonfibre display bezel, two 7-way FunkySwitch directional sticks with encoder functionality, a pair of aluminium thumbwheels with optical encoders, and four magnetic paddles – two for gearshifting and two auxiliaries, based on the design of the Continental GT road car.

More realism for gaming enthusiasts
“Our detailed collaboration with Fanatec, the world leader in gaming hardware, has repurposed the steering wheel from the Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak car for virtual use. There cannot be a more realistic way for gaming enthusiasts to experience the thrill of driving one of our fastest ever vehicles, from home,” said Paul Williams, Director of Motorsport at Bentley Motors, and a keen sim racer himself.

Fanatec has not mentioned the price for this steering wheel although it may be among the more expensive ones available. Prices in its wide range start from 100 euros and go up to 1,800 euros (about RM500 to RM8,900).

Aiming for a new record at Pikes Peak
Bentley will be entering the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb again this week. It already holds the course record for the fastest production SUV, set by a Bentayga in 2018, and the production car class, set the following year in a Continental GT.

This year’s competition car is a specially developed Continental GT3 car with a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-litre V8 engine producing more than 750 bhp and 1000 Nm of torque. Designed to run on renewable synthetic fuel, it will attempt to set a new record for a production-based racing vehicle. To achieve this, the car will have to complete the climb of around 1,500 metres along a distance of almost 20 kms at an average speed of more than 125 km/h to cross the finish line in less than 9 minutes and 36 seconds.

Bentley aiming for a third record at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb this month with Continental GT3

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Steering wheel of Bentley Continental GT3 for Pikes Peak Hill Climb can also be used for sim racing (w/VIDEO)

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