Click it and Unblock the Notifications
New Continental GT Speed Unveiled At Goodwood Festival With Record-Breaking Feat
The new Continental GT Speed will make its global debut at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed. This event aligns with the theme "Horseless to Hybrid - Revolutions in Power." The car recently set an unofficial 'Underwater Speed Record' of 208 mph (335 km/h), likely the fastest recorded speed through a tunnel globally.
On 18 April, the Continental GT Speed achieved its top speed in Norway's Ryfylke Tunnel, the world's longest and deepest sub-sea road tunnel. The car reached 335 km/h, powered by Bentley’s Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, which delivers 782 PS and 1000 Nm. It ran on Coryton’s SUSTAIN second-generation renewable biofuel and a hybrid battery charged with electricity from Bentley’s solar panel array.
The record-breaking run required extensive preparation. The Ryfylke Tunnel was chosen for its straight, smooth path and length. Bentley collaborated with Norwegian authorities to secure the tunnel and necessary permits. Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations revealed that aerodynamic drag would be 11% higher in the tunnel, necessitating careful planning.
At Goodwood, a bespoke ‘FOShtank’ will showcase the new car and the Underwater Speed Record film. This display includes a custom-built fish tank containing 1,400 litres of water and 30 Shubunkins and other goldfish. The Tourmaline Green Continental GT Speed will be displayed behind this three-tonne tank.
The display also features an outdoor LED screen playing both the Underwater Speed Record launch film and behind-the-scenes footage. An on-site aquarium specialist will ensure the welfare of the fish throughout the festival.
Technical Specifications
The new Continental GT Speed boasts an Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain with more horsepower and torque than its predecessor. It offers extreme performance while reducing CO2 emissions to 29 g/km. This combination provides a range of driving capabilities from high performance to silent electric luxury.
Each Continental GT Speed can reach its top speed without modifications beyond correct tyre inflation. However, for the tunnel run, additional precautions were taken. The car was fitted with x-rayed Pirelli tyres to check for inconsistencies beneath the surface.
Former British Rally champion Mark Higgins drove the car during the record attempt. The runs took place at 01:00 local time to minimise traffic disruption, with one tunnel closed and traffic rerouted to the other.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Simulation showed that running close to tunnel walls would create suction pulling the car towards them. Therefore, it was crucial to keep the car centred in the tunnel. The Vmax car used for these runs included a roll cage and bucket seats for safety.
Despite increased drag, the Continental GT Speed accelerated from standstill to 335 km/h in just 33 seconds. It maintained this speed as long as required by film director Jon Richards, formerly of Top Gear.
Bentley Motors is renowned for combining fine craftsmanship with engineering expertise and cutting-edge technology. Headquartered in Crewe, UK, Bentley employs around 4,000 people across various departments including design, R&D, engineering, Mulliner, and production of five model lines: Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible, Flying Spur, Bentayga, and Bentayga EWB.
The new Continental GT Speed's debut at Goodwood marks another milestone for Bentley Motors in showcasing their commitment to innovation and performance while maintaining their legacy of luxury craftsmanship.
Continue with Google