Bentley Hybrid Concept is a Mulsanne, but it’ll arrive in the new Bentley SUV

The Bentley Hybrid Concept (pictured) will debut in Beijing

There’s been lots of talk of a Bentley Hybrid for a number of years now, and in 2011 Wolfgang Dürheimer confirmed that hybrid was in Bentley’s plans and that it would be a plug-in. Fast forward three years and we get the Bentley Hybrid Concept, Bentley’s first crack at a plug-in hybrid powertrain all wrapped up in the Mulsanne.

But it won’t be the Mulsanne that sees a production version of the hybrid powertrain but, as expected, the new Bentley SUV.

Bentley are taking the Mulsanne Hybrid to the Beijing Motor Show later this month, so they’re still being a bit cagey about the hybrid’s figures (they may still be even after its debuted), but what Bentley has said looks promising.

Bentley say the plug-in hybrid will deliver 25 per cent more power and reduce emissions by a massive 75 per cent. Not only that, but the Bentley Hybrid will be able to get round any future zero emission city regulations by running on electricity for up to 31 miles – more than enough to get in and out of any city centre.

Although Bentley are being coy about the actual figures, an increase in power of 25 per cent for the Mulsanne (or any Bentley with the 6 3/4 litre V8) should see something around 630 bhp, emissions of 98g/km and economy of 56 mpg.

Bentley Chairman Dr Wolfgang Schreiber said:

There is no doubt that plug-in hybrid technology is true to Bentley’s values of outstanding luxury and effortless performance. Combining our renowned engines with electric power reinforces and enhances both principles, and so we will gradually introduce this powertrain across our model range.

By the end of the decade, at least 90% of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid. We are proud to be pioneering these developments in the luxury sector.

The Mulsanne Hybrid Concept has been titivted for its debut with copper styling elements for the interior and exterior highlighting the electrical veins on stuff like the headlights, radiator shell bezel, brake calipers, feature lines and badges.

The Bentley Hybrid Concept will debut at the Beijing Motor Show later this month where Bentley will also have the new Continental GT V8 S and the new, more powerful, Continental GT Speed.

By Cars UK