The Bentley Hybrid Concept is a fascinating thing to analyse. Almost predicting the bewilderment form traditional Bentley customers at a car that actively attempts to be efficient, the concept looks very much like the stately
Mulsanne
in a very subdued colour scheme. Wouldn't want too much shock now.
Parsimony and frugality, Bentley style
The details on Bentley's plug-in hybrid system are brief at present, with more likely to follow at the concept's Beijing reveal on April 20. For now it serves to signal Bentley's intent to introduce plug-ins, with discussion of the hybrid range as a whole rather than this concept specifically. Apparently the addition of a hybrid will add 25 per cent more power with a 70 per cent reduction in CO2 to Bentley models. All will have an EV range of at least 50km (32 miles) for emissions-free, silent running. Because Bentley combustion engines are always so raucous, aren't they?
According to Bentley's Chairman Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, "at least 90 per cent" of the Bentley range will be available as a plug-in hybrid by the end of the decade. The first model will be the SUV due in 2017. Nothing more has been confirmed on this since the EXP 9 F was to be restyled. A hybrid Bentley SUV? And some thought the Continental GT was controversial...
Little different in here, of course
As for the Mulsanne-based Hybrid Concept, Bentley has chosen its flagship to indicate that 'hybrid technology enhances even the pinnacle of luxury and performance'. That rather plain colour scheme hides copper as a styling element inside and out to highlight 'the car's electrical veins'. Hmm. See the headlamps, brake calipers and badges.
Lastly, if the prospect of a hybrid Bentley is anathema to you, the latest Continental GT Speed will also be on the Beijing stand. 635hp, 206mph and 19.5mpg more like it sir?