14 DAY TRIAL // Yesterday, luxury automaker Bentley unveiled a plug-in hybrid concept. According to the automaker, the Bentley Hybrid Concept is set to go on display at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition later this month, i.e. on April 20.
On its website, Bentley boasts that it is the first luxury brand to introduce folks to a plug-in hybrid. From this standpoint, there is no arguing that it is not a follower, but a leader, the automaker goes on to argue.
“As the first luxury brand to present a plug-in hybrid, Bentley leads the way in bringing new powertrain choice to the luxury automotive sector,” the luxury brand writes.
Bentley says that, according to its calculations, the plug-in hybrid system it has developed will provide a power increase of 25% while delivering a 70% drop in carbon dioxide emissions.
What's more, the automaker promises that its hybrids will achieve these improvements in their ecological footprint and in their performance without sacrificing aesthetics.
“The plug-in hybrid system will offer a power increase of up to 25% together with a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions, both without any compromise to the exquisite luxury, timeless design and industry-leading refinement for which Bentley has become renowned,” it says.
The automaker claims that, when they finally hit roads, its hybrids will be able to cover a distance of up to 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) while relying on electric power alone. This means that, if driven in the city, the cars will be emissions-free.
“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. We are proud to be pioneering these developments in the luxury sector,” Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber with Bentley Motors said in a statement.
At the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, Bentley's plug-in hybrid technology is to be previewed in a version of its Mulsanne Sedan. Should things go according to plan, the technology will become available in 2017, in the Bentley SUV.
Given the fact that, in a new report, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change argues that greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced without delay in order to limit global warming and climate change, it comes as good news that luxury brands such as Bentley are looking to green up their fleet.