This year marks the centenary of Bentley’s history, the luxury brand celebrates centenary at Auto Shanghai. It is Chinese debut for Mulsanne W.O Edition by Mulliner, limited to just 100 examples. The special model displayed alongside W.O. Bentley’s personal 8 Litre car together with Bentayga Hybrid, third-generation Continental GT and GT Convertible. The new Bentayga Hybrid – ultra-luxury SUV that represents Bentley’s way towards electric cars. The luxury brands first hybrid model combines an electric motor with an all-new V6 petrol engine and is Bentley’s most energy-efficient model ever. The all-new Continental GT and GT Convertible are also making their debut at the Auto Shanghai show. The third-generation models are the definition of Grand Tourer and have been designed, engineered and handcrafted in Britain. Both combine a well sculptured exterior design with a stylish interior as the ultimate statement of luxury.
The truly unique Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner incorporates a genuine piece of Bentley history, a slice of crankshaft taken from W.O. Bentley’s personal 8 Litre model is displayed inside each of these 100 very special Mulsanne’s. Designed to mark Bentley’s centenary the W.O. Edition can be specified on any of the three-model Mulsanne range. The Iconic Bentley 8 Litre, on the Bentley, stand in Shanghai is the car that inspired the new W.O. Edition by Mulliner. It was described as W.O. Bentley’s finest Grand Tourer when launched in 1930 and featured a saloon body crafted by H.J. Mulliner.
The most powerful and luxurious Bentley of the era, the car powered by a 7,983cc a remarkably powerful straight-six engine. Bentley’s founder sold his 8 Litre car in 1931 but it was bought back by Bentley Motors in 2006 and underwent a full restoration. It is now one of the attractions in the Bentley Motors Lineage Exhibition, situated in Crewe, England. The Bentayga – Pioneering Hybrid Bentley makes its debut in Shanghai. The world’s first luxury hybrid offers a top driving experience and is Bentley’s first step towards EVs. Offering the best of both, the new SUV combines an electric motor with a new-generation V6 petrol engine. With an electric range of over 50 km (NEDC), the new Hybrid can be fully charged in just 2.5 hours. It provides the refinement, effortless performance and sublimely tranquil cabin like a true Bentley.
The Definition of Grand Touring – Bentley Continental GT and GT Convertible are also making their debut at Auto Shanghai. Both models combine top performance with luxury and cutting-edge technology, creating the finest coupe and open-top Grand Tourers ever produced. Under the beautifully sculptured bonnet of the new Continental GT, lives enhanced version of 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 TSI engine, connected to a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission. The engine outputs 635 PS (625 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) and 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds (0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds), with a top speed of 333 km/h (207 mph). The interior of the new Continental GT crafted with the highest-quality natural leathers and sustainably sourced veneers – including Koa, Bentley’s newest veneer – and hand-polished details. A notable feature is a Rotating Display, the 12.3” touchscreen is built in a three-sided unit, which revolves at the touch of a button.
The Continental GT Convertible roof up, or down looks beautiful, the roof opens in 19 seconds to reveal a luxurious, handcrafted interior. The new convertible is 20 per cent lighter and five per cent stiffer than the previous model. Performance is also better, with 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds (0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds) and a top speed of 333 km/h (207 mph). Bentley’s 100th year – an extraordinary milestone achieved by only a few automotive companies. To celebrate, a year-long series activities have been planned, at events around the world. They will show Bentley’s journey over the last 100 years, with its global success and the exciting future ahead – all thanks to one man’s determination and drive for innovation.