Using only energy from waste straw and what Bentley says 'power of the planet', an engineering prototype Flying Spur Hybrid has completed a test as part of the car's sign off and Bentley's development of renewable fuels. The Azure Purple Flying Spur Hybrid drove across Iceland covering a total of 733 km in a single stint and entirely on renewable power, through a combination of 100 per cent second generation biofuel and geothermally-sourced electricity available from the Icelandic power grid.
The journey is validation both of the grand touring range of Bentley's new Hybrid - the second to be launched following the Bentayga Hybrid - and of Bentley's research into biofuels that can be used without engine modification. The fuel used conforms to the same EN228 standard as ordinary pump gasoline, yet is created entirely from waste biomass (e.g. straw) at no cost to food production or the natural ecosystem. The combination of this fuel and the Flying Spur Hybrid's intelligent electrified powertrain meant an overall reduction of 45 per cent in CO2 emissions on a well-to-wheels basis over the course of the adventure.
The combination of this fuel and the Flying Spur Hybrid's intelligent electrified powertrain meant an overall reduction of 45 per cent in CO2 emissions
Bentley's Member of the Board for Engineering, Matthias Rabe, said, "With the launch of the Flying Spur Hybrid we now have a hybrid range at Bentley, and with this challenge we've proved the real benefit of a hybrid. It's truly the best of both worlds, especially when the use of innovative second generation biofuel means a huge drop in CO2 emissions."
The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor, delivering a total of 536 bhp and 750 Nm of torque - an additional 95 bhp in comparison to the Bentayga Hybrid. The new Flying Spur becomes the most efficient Bentley ever having the capability to cover 700 km when fully fuelled.
The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor
Inside the cabin, the automatic Start-Stop switch has been replaced with a control for the three E Modes - EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode, enabling the driver to manage the battery usage during a journey. EV Drive mode is engaged as soon as the car is switched on, and maximises the electric driving experience. This is ideal for city driving and for shorter journeys.
The flow of energy can also be displayed via the infotainment screen where statistics can be seen and the timers for charging of the vehicle can be set. Additional e-motion information is available to the driver via the instrument panel, heads up display and centre screen, including range, battery level and charging information.
