In the recent Detroit Auto Show event, Bentley Motors revealed their plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid version of every model in its lineup to be released in the next few years. This will give the British automaker other alternative fuel options.
As the global emission standards grow tighter, this step is very crucial for the luxury automaker. At the 2017 Automotive News World Congress in Detroit (Detroit Motor Show), Bentley's CEO Wolfgang Duerheimer stated that unlike plenty of other manufacturers, Bentley does not see plug-in hybrids as a temporary bridge to technology.
It is no secret that several car companies only see the hybrid technology as a temporary answer until all-electric or fuel cell car models are finally viable. Instead, Duerheimer said, "PHEV sometimes is mentioned as a transitional technology -- it will be out of our way pretty soon. From my point of view, plug-in hybrid technology provides the best of two worlds."
This will, in fact, benefit Bentley and their consumers in a lot of ways. First and foremost, adding a plug-in hybrid to every model will allow its owner to drive in cities where diesel or any gasoline-burning ride might be restricted.
With this in mind, there could be a slight disadvantage. There are plenty of Bentley vehicles used for long trips. This could not be possible in a pure electric vehicle unless the driver would stop to recharge. Duerheimer has the answer: "To cover long distances and to make it from one city to another -- and you travel long distances in the U.S. -- I think the combustion engine will follow us for a long time."
In the event, it was also confirmed that the Bentayga crossover will get a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. It is expected to come out in 2018. According to Automotive News, Duerheimer confirmed that the next-generation Continental GT will be the next Bentley model to get a plug-in hybrid option.
It is expected to debut after the initial model. The initial model will have its W-12 internal combustion is expected to premiere within the year. Duerheimer also confirmed that the GT plug-in hybrid will use a V-6 engine and its power output will be comparable to the V-8 which makes 500 horsepower.
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