FLEXFUEL technology will be available across the complete 2011 Continental range as prestige manufacturer Bentley steps up its environmental strategy.
That was the message from the Geneva Motor Show as the Crewe-based firm announced that more than half of all Bentleys built this year will be FlexFuel compatible.
The technology, pioneered on the Continental Supersports Coupe in 2009, now extends throughout the 2011 Continental line-up, including the new Supersports Convertible.
The W12 six-litre power unit now has the technology to run on petrol, bioethanol or any mix of the two fuels – from a single tank.
Bentley is committed to reduce overall CO2 emissions by 15 per cent, introduce a new powertrain which will deliver a 40 per cent saving in fuel economy and ensure that the entire model range will be compatible with renewable fuels, all by 2012.
The first step in the delivery of that strategy was unveiled in Geneva last spring with the launch of the Continental Supersports, the first Bentley able to run on petrol or bioethanol.
And this week marks another significant ste. From the 2011 model year, available this summer, the entire Continental range will be FlexFuel in all markets – including, for the first time, North America.
Bentley chief Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen said: “When we launched our environmental strategy in Geneva two years ago, it was a clear pledge to reduce the impact of our cars on the environment. This latest development is proof of our commitment and is a significant step towards the achievement of our 2012 targets.”
Bentley remains on track to deliver - the 6.75 litre V8 engine, completely re-engineered for the new Mulsanne, delivers a 15 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions as well as improved power and torque.