Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Bentley Launches Continental GT Speed Featuring Sustainable EFuels And Advanced Hybrid Technology
Bentley has pioneered the first global media drive using sustainable eFuel, aiming to lessen its environmental footprint. The event took place in Switzerland, showcasing the fourth generation Continental GT Speed coupe and convertible. This marked a significant milestone as it was the first of its kind to utilise eFuel, demonstrating compatibility with existing combustion engines.
The eFuel used is a synthetic fuel developed by Highly Innovative Fuels (HIF) Global, supported by Porsche. It is produced at the Haru Oni pilot plant in Chile, where biogenic CO2 from brewing processes is combined with hydrogen from water electrolysis to create methanol. This methanol is then refined into gasoline. Bentley's blend for the event was 75% eFuel and 25% regular gasoline, significantly reducing emissions.
eFuels are synthetic liquid fuels made from renewable energy-derived hydrogen and CO2 captured from the air. They offer a near-neutral CO2 solution for existing vehicles without modifications and can be blended with traditional gasoline. The Haru Oni plant in Chile benefits from consistent winds driving turbines for renewable electricity production.
The plant aims to produce 100,000 litres annually, demonstrating eFuel technology's potential. The goal is to achieve no more CO2 emissions when burned than produced initially, moving towards full well-to-wheel sustainability. Bentley is exploring alternative fuels like bio-derived fuels and eFuels as part of its electrification strategy.
The new Continental GT Speed boasts an Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain with 782 PS and 1,000 Nm torque, surpassing the previous W12 model while reducing CO2 emissions to 29 g/km. The car features a new chassis system with dual-valve dampers and Bentley Dynamic Ride for improved body control and ride comfort.
The exterior design marks a significant update for Bentley, featuring single headlamps for the first time since the 1950s. Inside, the cabin showcases exceptional craftsmanship with wellness seat technology, air ionisation, three-dimensional leather textures, modern quilting, and technical finishes like dark chrome.
Event Highlights and Sustainability Efforts
During the event, guests drove through four mountain passes: Sustenpass, Grimselpass, Nufenenpass, and St. Gotthard-pass. Over seven days, 12 Continental GT Speeds climbed 1.4 million feet and covered 8,000 miles while achieving a 30% reduction in carbon impact per guest compared to previous events.
The Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain combined with eFuel and renewable electricity reduced CO2 emissions by 93% compared to past events. Despite reduced on-site emissions, international flight CO2 remains a challenge; Bentley offsets this through carbon credits.
The Continental GT Speed is now available for order with deliveries expected early next year. It has been certified at 29 g/km CO2 and achieves up to 217 mpg under WLTP drive cycle standards.
Bentley continues its commitment to sustainability by researching alternative fuels compatible with all current models as part of its long-term strategy towards full electrification.
Continue with Google