AUTOMOTIVE
New Chassis Technology – True Sporting Potential
The pinnacle performance Continental GT features advanced chassis technology harnessed specifically for the new model .
New Electronic All-Wheel Steering enhances the dynamic nature of the Speed in BENTLEY and COMFORT driving modes . However , this is even more apparent in SPORT mode , as the steering combines with Bentley Dynamic Ride and an electronic limited slip differential for a level of agility unlike any other Bentley road car .
At low and medium speeds , the GT Speed ’ s rear wheels are steered in the opposite direction to the front wheels to aid a rapid change of direction , noticeably increasing the feeling of nimbleness . The steering feels sharper and with a quicker ratio , and a commensurate increase in steering feel provides even more driver confidence . At high speeds , the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the front , to improve stability . The system is significantly more active on the GT Speed than it is on the Flying Spur , where its primary purpose is a reduction in turning circle and enhanced high-speed stability .
Featuring Active All-Wheel drive , the traction control and torque distribution has been recalibrated in all driver modes to provide a noticeable character shift relative to the standard Continental GT .
Maintaining Bentley ’ s philosophy of the vehicle feeling progressive and secure , yet still be dynamic , this approach rewards drivers of all abilities . To achieve this philosophy in BENTLEY and COMFORT mode , overall grip is balanced between the front and rear wheels , in SPORT this mode has been calibrated with a more rear-biased torque – split in all driving scenarios .
For the first time in a Bentley , the latest generation of the Continental GT Speed introduces the use of an electronic rear differential ( eLSD ).
Specifically tuned hand-in-hand with the traction control and active chassis systems , the eLSD provides increased lateral capacity , improved longitudinal stability , enhanced on-throttle adjustability and delivers better traction in adverse road conditions .
In BENTLEY and COMFORT mode this provides improved traction , provides a greater level of confidence for the driver and makes the vehicle feel more stable at high speeds . In SPORT mode , the eLSD has been tuned to balance on and off throttle adjustability , improved turnin response and increased straight-line performance . The combined benefit means the Continental GT Speed is now more adjustable and more driver-focussed than ever before without compromising comfort or stability .
Improved cornering dynamics and the extra grip provided by the new systems allows the driver to exit any corner with an increased level of precision and confidence . In turn , the vehicle is able to extract the maximum performance from the available traction to deliver stunning acceleration and composure from the apex . In SPORT mode , the traction management system sends a greater proportion of power to the rear axle to allow for even greater on-throttle control of cornering line .
Working alongside these systems are the key chassis technologies that deliver body control and ride comfort with no compromise to one another – namely Bentley ’ s three-chamber active air suspension with adaptive damping , and Bentley Dynamic Ride – the 48V active anti-roll control system that Bentley pioneered on the Bentayga and thirdgeneration Continental GT . This innovative system features powerful electric motors within each anti-roll bar to resist body roll . In their firmest setting , the motors can deliver 1300 Nm in 0.3 secs to counteract cornering forces and keep the body level .
Meanwhile , depending on the mode , the Electronic Stability Control ( ESC ) System allows the driver to experience an even greater level of freedom before the Speed ’ s safety systems intervene to correct any anomalies . With the ESC engaged , the car provides reassuring stability over uneven surfaces , abnormal cambers or in inclement weather conditions . When switched to Dynamic mode , the ESC extends the freedom of the driver , allowing the experienced pilot to set and alter the cornering stance of the car at their discretion .
With the ESC switched off , the mechanical grip and inherent balance of the GT Speed comes to the fore , allowing a driver-focused experience previously only seen in Bentley ’ s racing machines . After utilising strong turn-in performance thanks to the All-Wheel Steering and eLSD , on track the driver can choose to balance throttle and steering to deliver effortless , progressive yaw angles .
Issue 47 2021 The Art of Luxury
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