Bentley launched the Bentayga plug-in hybrid SUV just a few months ago. It’s the first hybrid system in a Bentley and it’s quite a remarkable one.
The Bentayga hybrid is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 and an electric motor with a total system power of 456 hp and 516 lb/ft of torque.
Power and performance figures are well below the range-topping Bentayga Speed, whose W12 engine makes it the fastest SUV in the world.
However, the hybrid’s 13 kWh battery offers 31 miles of pure electric range and the half-sized V6 emits just 75 grams of CO2 per kilometer, which equates to fuel efficiency of 87.3 mpg here in the US.
Even more interesting news comes from Roadshow. One of their journalists, attending a California event, has talked to Chris Craft – a board member for Sales and Marketing at Bentley.
Apparently, Bentley is planning to hybridize its entire lineup and introduce a fully-electric vehicle in the next 6 years.
Chris Craft commented:
“We will bring out hybrid versions of all our models by 2023.”
This includes the Continental GT, recently-launched Flying Spur, and handcrafted Mulsanne.
Of course, Bentley is not willing to jeopardize the luxury and ride quality of their cars. So, the automaker is making incremental steps – first with hybrids, then with fully-electric vehicles.
“The next big focal point is to launch our first full electric car, which we will do by 2025.”
Just like the rest of the Volkswagen family, Bentley is going towards an electric future. VW, Porsche, and Audi are all rolling out hybrid and fully-electric models.
“Over 30% of luxury buyers are interested in electric cars. That will be a big part of our future.”
Even Lamborghini has confirmed the successor of the Aventador will incorporate some degree of hybridization.
