Bentley is expanding the range of the third-generation Flying Spur with the new Flying Spur Hybrid. This is an important step in the brand's journey towards electrification through the implementation of the Beyond100 strategy, which envisages Bentley's transformation into a zero-carbon footprint organisation.
In the new Flying Spur Hybrid, Bentley proves that luxury and energy efficiency can be combined in harmony. The car uses a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine and an advanced electric motor, delivering a total of 544 PS and a ferocious 750 Nm of torque - an extra 95 hp compared to the Bentayga Hybrid. The engine delivers over 150 PS per litre, an even higher figure than the Flying Spur V8.
The advanced synchronous permanent magnet electric motor is located between the gearbox and the combustion engine and delivers up to 136 PS and 400 Nm of torque. Its rapid response minimizes any perceived lag often associated with turbocharger lag.
The electric motor is powered by a 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery and can be charged on the 100% in just two and a half hours. Powered purely by electricity, the new Flying Spur Hybrid has a range of 40 kilometres (pending certification).
The new model is only slightly behind the Flying Spur V8 in acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 285 km/h. The new hybrid powertrain achieves a significant reduction in fuel consumption while delivering Bentley's authentic, effortless and refined performance.
The driver has a set of advanced services (My Car Statistics, My Battery Charge, My Cabin Comfort) at his or her disposal to take full control of the Flying Spur Hybrid and is informed when the car is running exclusively on electricity, recovering energy during free coasting or using the internal combustion engine. Inside the cabin, the automatic Start-Stop switch has been replaced by a control for the three electric modes EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode, allowing the driver to manage battery usage during a taxi.
EV Drive mode is selected as soon as the car is switched on and maximises the electric driving experience. It is ideal for city driving and shorter journeys.
Hybrid mode is suitable for longer journeys and uses a predictive function while communicating with the navigation system. By entering a destination, the car automatically activates the correct driving mode for each part of the journey, continually calculating the most efficient use of battery charge and saving electricity for parts of the journey where it is most useful.
The Hold function balances the thermal motor and electric power to save electricity in order to keep the high-voltage battery charge high for later use.
The Flying Spur Hybrid is distinguished on the outside by seven special paint colours, carefully selected for the character and style of the car. A "Hybrid" badge mounted on the front fender, square exhaust tips and the charging point on the left rear fender distinguish the model from other versions.
The interior of the Flying Spur Hybrid features the brand's typical unparalleled luxury and innovation - elegant and unique, with ultra-comfortable seats, unique luxury materials and countless personalisation options.
All Flying Spurs are built at Bentley's headquarters in Crewe, the world's first luxury car factory with a zero carbon footprint. The first cars will be delivered to customers before the end of the year.