Skip advert
Advertisement

Bentley Hybrid concept revealed in Beijing

Bentley proves it's serious about hybrids with a 118g/km Mulsanne unveiled at the Beijing show

Bentley has confirmed its forthcoming SUV will be the first model to receive a plug-in hybrid powertrain, from 2017, before the technology is rolled out across the range. And to preview the tech the Bentley Hybrid Concept – based on the Mulsanne saloon – will be revealed at the Beijing Motor show later this month.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Although there are no specific power, performance or efficiency figures for the new concept, Bentley has dropped a series of hints. The pictures provided clearly show the Mulsanne’s regular 505bhp 6.75-litre V8 engine under the bonnet - this is boosted by an unspecified number of electric motors, although Bentley claims the plug-in hybrid system will offer and increase in power of 25 per cent and a drop in CO2 emissions of 70 per cent.

By multiplying the Mulsanne’s existing figures, that gives a power output of 631bhp with CO2 emissions of just 118g/km. It will also be capable of driving at least 50km (31 miles) on electric power alone before the engine kicks in – allowing zero emissions driving around town and storming performance when the road opens up.

To mark the Hybrid Concept out visually from the standard Mulsanne it features copper elements to highlight the car’s “electrical veins.” On the outside there are headlamp details, brake calipers and badges all finished in copper, while the interior features copped inserts in the veneers, instrument panel and copper-coloured cross-stitching on the seats.

Bentley’s chairman, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber said: “There is no doubt that plug-in hybrid technology is true to Bentley’s values of outstanding luxury and effortless performance. Combining our renowned engines with electric power reinforces and enhances both principles, and so we will gradually introduce this powertrain across our model range. By the end of the decade, at least 90% of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid.”

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Denza Z9GT features ‘crab-walk’ technology and has 1,000bhp
New Denza Z9GT - front

Denza Z9GT features ‘crab-walk’ technology and has 1,000bhp

BYD’s Denza sub-brand will take on the premium market with an all-electric shooting brake
News
23 Aug 2024

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price
BMW X7 - front

Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price

German firm’s flagship SUV could never be called cheap but it is exceptional value at £735 a month – making it our Deal of the Day for Sunday 27 April
News
27 Apr 2025
New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal
Volkswagen ID.3 Pure Match - front

New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal

The value-focused Volkswagen ID.3 Match performs well and is easy to live with
Road tests
28 Apr 2025