Bentley has unveiled its fastest, and potentially greenest, car ever – the Supersports. The Continental-based two-seater has 621bhp and can accelerate from 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds, with a top speed of 204mph.
The Supersports is the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company’s commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012.
The car started life as a development project looking at the benefits of weight saving, but over 24 months it turned into an official new car programme. To match the performance the steering and suspension has been retuned, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars.
The 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system sharpens agility, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme.
Carbon ceramic brakes are standard and overall the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg compared with the Continental GT Speed. The Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two.
Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive said: ‘The Continental Supersports reflects the passion and enthusiasm of Bentley’s engineers and designers. This is the fastest, most extreme Bentley ever, dramatically styled to underline its supercar character. Importantly, it also pioneers the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector.’
The car will be unveiled at the Geneva motor show.