Introduction:
Bentley has announced the retirement of its iconic W-12 engine this summer, marking the end of an era. The new flagship powertrain will be the “Ultra Performance Hybrid,” a downsized and electrified internal combustion engine based on a V-8 gasoline engine. While this new hybrid setup promises to deliver more power than the W-12, it also aims to be more efficient and dynamic. This shift is part of Bentley’s broader move towards electrification, with plans to offer only EVs by 2033. This article will delve into the details of Bentley’s new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain and explore the brand’s transition towards a more sustainable future.
Subtitles:
1. Retirement of the W-12 Engine
2. Introducing the Ultra Performance Hybrid
3. Performance and Efficiency of the New Powertrain
4. Bentley’s Transition to Electrification
5. The Future of High-End Engines in the Volkswagen Group
Bentley has made the decision to retire its legendary W-12 engine, signaling the end of an era for the luxury automaker. The last hurrah for the twelve-cylinder behemoth will be the Batur Convertible, which was introduced recently. This move comes as part of Bentley’s commitment to transitioning towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly powertrains.
As a replacement for the venerable 6.0-liter, twin-turbo W-12 engine, Bentley has unveiled the Ultra Performance Hybrid. This new flagship powertrain will be based on a V-8 gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. Despite having fewer cylinders, the hybrid setup promises to deliver even more power than the outgoing W-12 engine. Bentley claims that the combined output will exceed 740 horsepower, making it the most dynamic and responsive powertrain ever offered by the brand.
The Ultra Performance Hybrid is not just about power; it also aims to be the most efficient powertrain ever produced by Bentley. The hybrid technology incorporated into the setup will allow for an electric range of 50 miles, based on the WLTP cycle. While an equivalent EPA rating is likely to be lower, the new powertrain is expected to deliver significant improvements in fuel efficiency compared to the outgoing W-12 engine. With a focus on performance and efficiency, the Ultra Performance Hybrid represents Bentley’s vision for the future of high-end automotive powertrains.
Bentley’s move towards electrification is part of a broader industry trend towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. The luxury automaker had originally planned to offer only EVs by 2030, but this target has now been extended to 2033. The first zero-emission model from Bentley is expected to be revealed in late 2026 and delivered to customers in 2027, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s journey towards a fully electric future.
Bentley is not the only high-end brand from the Volkswagen Group to shift away from large-displacement engines. Audi has already retired the V-10 in the R8 supercar, and Lamborghini will follow suit with the upcoming Huracan replacement, which will feature a plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain. The move towards electrification is also evident at Bugatti, where the Chiron’s W-16 engine will be discontinued in favor of a newly developed V-16 hybrid engine for the next hypercar. This shift reflects a broader industry trend towards more sustainable and efficient powertrains in the high-end automotive sector.
In conclusion, Bentley’s retirement of the W-12 engine and introduction of the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain mark a significant milestone in the brand’s journey towards a more sustainable and efficient future. The new powertrain promises to deliver more power and better efficiency than the outgoing W-12, while also laying the groundwork for Bentley’s future electrification plans. As part of the broader industry shift towards more sustainable transportation solutions, Bentley’s transition to electrification signals a new chapter for the luxury automaker and sets the stage for a more environmentally friendly future for high-end automotive.