Supercharging in the 1920s was the early forebear to the use of turbocharging from the 1980s to present day . From this summer , Bentley goes one step further – bringing even more performance through ‘ electrocharging ’ – using a potent hybrid system to create what will be the most advanced and most powerful powertrain in Bentley ’ s 105-year history . The new system builds on Bentley ’ s existing hybrid powertrains , but goes even further in the level of performance and efficiency it brings – with more than 750 PS and a 50 mile ( 80 km ) electriconly range . That represents at least 91 PS more than the W12 engine previously offered in the Flying Spur and GT W12 Speed derivatives . performance vehicles . While developing more power than the W12 and four-figure torque over a wider plateau , the Ultra Performance Hybrid will also deliver a WLTP drive cycle CO2 figure of under 50 g / km .
The character of the new engine is also previewed today , with the release of an engine sound clip that reveals an exquisite combination of cross-plane bass with a free-revving growl . This represents one end of the audio spectrum offered by the
powertrain ; the polar opposite to the absolute silence the system will offer in electric mode .
More details on Bentley ’ s new electrified powertrain , which will drive the next phase of its Bentley ’ s Beyond 100 journey and deliver the promise of every car in the range being available as a hybrid , will be released over the coming weeks . Meanwhile , customers can continue to enjoy the final few remaining examples of Bentley ’ s W12 and nonhybrid V8 engines , available through Bentley ’ s global retailer network .
As Bentley ’ s iconic 6.0-litre twin turbo W12 engine heads towards retirement this summer , with 105,000 engines built over the last two decades , the new Ultra Performance Hybrid will take on the mantle as Bentley ’ s leading powertrain , establishing the new family of Bentleys it will power as the world ’ s best electrified luxury
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Issue 69 PECM 7