A new plug-in hybrid powertrain option for the Bentley Flying Spur saloon has been announced, joining the V8 and W12 versions as the range’s third powertrain choice.
Although pricing has yet to be announced, order books are now open, with the first models expected to reach the road before the end of the year.
It’s the next stage in Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy to get the firm to carbon neutrality, and it intends to accomplish it by providing a driving experience comparable to pure-combustion rivals but emitting less emissions.
A comparable plug-in engine to that found in the Porsche Panamera S e-Hybrid is found under the hood, coupling a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 with an electric motor placed between it and the transmission.
The powertrain has a combined output of 536 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, which is 95 horsepower more than the plug-in hybrid Bentayga, which employs an earlier generation hybrid powertrain seen in the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne.
This additional output only puts it 6bhp behind the Flying Spur V8, and it’ll sprint from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds before hitting a peak speed of 177mph.
The 410bhp Porsche-developed combustion engine is complemented by the electric motor, which provides an extra 134bhp and a whopping 295lb ft of torque to the overall output.
This is powered by a 14.1kWh battery pack and is utilized to cover torque gaps left by the gearbox and turbochargers in addition to aiding the engine.
The technology also enables for 25 miles of pure electric driving (WLTP) and helps to cut emissions, making it possible to enter cities with low-emission zones.
Only a charging flap on the left hand rear and a hybrid emblem on the front wing give away Bentley’s newfound environmental sensitivity, in classic Bentley flair.
Inside, it’s the same story, with the exception of a new driving mode button in lieu of the Start/Stop button, which lets drivers to choose between pure electric power, a “smart” hybrid mode, or a “hold” option to keep the battery charged.
There are a plethora of customizing choices available, as with other Bentley models. A 60-color Mulliner paint finish is offered in addition to the seven basic hues, with the option of completely customized to-sample colors.
Mulliner Driving Specification wheels are available in 22-inch and 21- and 20-inch sizes, as they are on the basic vehicle.
The order books are now open, and the first cars should be on the road by the end of 2021. The price has not yet been revealed, but it is expected to be less than the £153,900 Flying Spur V8.
