Bentley to Offer Plug-In Hybrids Across Model Range
Bentley has confirmed that it will equip its future models with hybrid technologies, with its SUV being the first to receive a plug-in variant.
The Bentley SUV is expected to launch in 2016 and the plug-in hybrid version will likely arrive a year later. As for the rest of the luxury automaker’s lineup, hybrid versions will follow when those vehicles are due for a major change. As part of the Volkswagen Group, expect the Bentley SUV to borrow its plug-in hybrid technology from the Porsche Panamera Hybrid, the same system that will be making its way to the Porsche Cayenne.
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“The SUV will be the first Bentley hybrid because it’s based on a new platform with new technology,” said Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber. “You need space for batteries and the technology, so we probably won’t do that for existing models. We will see hybrid versions of all of our cars, though.”
It still isn’t clear how the finished Bentley SUV will look, but the automaker hinted that its design has been overhauled based on feedback from the EXP 9F concept after a tenuous first reception.
GALLERY: Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
[Source: AutoExpress]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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