Bentley to introduce plug-in hybrid technology

British luxury car manufacturer, Bentley officially announced that they would start to incorporate a plug-in hybrid option in most of its models by 2017. The first official plug-in hybrid model that will be offered will be the upcoming Bentley flagship SUV, which should break cover later this year. Bentley will bring a concept hybrid prototype based on the Mulsanne platform as a showcase to the upcoming 2014 Beijing Auto Show.

Bentley’s new hybrid system will offer a power increase of up to 25 per cent together with a 70 per cent reduction in C02 emissions, both without any compromise to Bentley’s well known qualities like luxury, design and sheer power. Bentley also claims that its hybrids will also be capable of driving at least 50km on electric power alone, allowing for emissions-free city driving with the option of enhanced performance on the open road.

As we mentioned earlier, the Bentley hybrid concept will be based on the top of the line Bentley Mulsanne limousine and features some unique touches apart from the complicated power plant. Bentley has used a generous helping of copper on the exterior and interior styling to highlight the car’s electrical veins. The details include copper accents to the headlamps, radiator shell bezel, brake details, feature lines and badges. The copper accents continue into the interior with hand crafted copper inserts like bezels and instruments. The badging on the interior and inclusion of copper into the stitching adds to the additional details.

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Speaking on the occasion, Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors 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 per cent of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid. We are proud to be pioneering these developments in the luxury sector.” Bentley will be the first true luxury auto maker to offer a plug-in hybrid system in this class of automobile.