Bentley Flying Spur to Feature Advanced V8 Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain
Bentley Motors is taking a significant step forward in its journey toward electrification by announcing that the Flying Spur sedan will soon be available with a high-performance hybrid powertrain. This new V8 plug-in hybrid system, known as the Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain, will be derived from the Continental GT Coupe and integrated into the refreshed Flying Spur.
New Hybrid Powertrain Announcement
Bentley confirmed on Thursday that the updated Flying Spur Speed, set to debut later this year, will incorporate this state-of-the-art hybrid technology. While the exact release date remains undisclosed, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the launch.
Advanced Hybrid Technology
The hybrid powertrain made its debut in the revamped Continental GT Speed in June, effectively replacing Bentley’s twin-turbo 6.0-liter W-12 engine, which will cease production this summer after a two-decade run. To honor this iconic engine, Bentley has also introduced limited-edition Batur and Batur Convertible models.
Enhanced Performance
The new hybrid system in the Flying Spur Speed will deliver an impressive 771 horsepower, matching the power output of the updated Continental GT Speed’s powertrain. This marks a significant increase of 145 horsepower over the current W-12-powered Flying Spur Speed.
Technical Specifications
The hybrid powertrain consists of a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine paired with an electric motor. This combination is integrated with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, channeling power to all four wheels through an all-wheel-drive system.
Key Features:
- Engine: Twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8
- Electric Motor: Incorporated for hybrid capability
- Transmission: Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drive System: All-wheel drive
- Horsepower: 771 HP
Previous Models and the Shift to Hybrid
The current generation of the Flying Spur was introduced to the U.S. market as a 2020 model and first received a hybrid powertrain option in 2022. The existing hybrid prioritizes efficiency and includes a turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine coupled with a single electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 536 horsepower.
The standalone twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine remains available for now, but it’s slated for discontinuation, as shown by Bentley’s unveiling of eight special-edition versions of the Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur earlier this year, signaling the end of exclusively V8-powered models.
Design and Aesthetic Updates
Bentley’s teaser images reveal that the updated Flying Spur Speed will feature a revamped front fascia while retaining the distinctive split-headlight design seen in its predecessor.
Conclusion
Bentley’s strategic shift towards electrification is exemplified by the integration of the Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain into its luxury sedans. This move not only enhances the driving experience with powerful performance but also aligns with global trends towards more sustainable automotive solutions. Keep an eye out for the upcoming launch of the upgraded Flying Spur Speed for a blend of traditional luxury and cutting-edge technology.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
8 Comments
Wow, bentley makin hybrid now? sound soo kool and fasta!! cant w8 to see it on da road!!
Ikr! Hybrid is the future, hope itz as good as they say.
This is just a another way to charge more $$$ for cars. who need 771 horse anyway, ridiculous!!
Did dey really need to get rid of W-12 engine? I luv dat sound, this new one better be worth it.
Right! Nothing beats the roar of a W-12. Hybrids r cool but still…
So, essentially Bentley is turning into a more expensive Toyota Prius with fancy lights. Bravo! 🤣
I think iz good that companies are makin more hybrid cars, save the planet nd all.
Yeah but will this rilly make a difference? Seems more like a marketing thing.