As Bentley reveals its plans to produce a hybrid, debate kicks off as to just what combination of technology and engines the luxury car maker intends to use. While it’s full steam ahead on preparing Arnage, the new flagship, it looks as though Bentley is finding the time to dedicate to the environmental viability of its range.

This spy shot shows that Bentley is testing a petrol-electric drivetrain on a Continental prototype. The powerplant being used is a versions of the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne hybrids that combines a 3.6 litre petrol V6 at 280 hp, and 375 Nm, to an electric motor with 284Nm.

The Bentley version is likely to be more powerful as using a V8 engine could result in a final 500hp. This means that the original and fuel consuming Continental W12 engine could be scrapped.

This may be bad news for Bentley fans, but it’s good news for the company as it prepares the technology across its range ahead of new EU targets to reduce CO2 emissions by 2015.

Source | Autoexpress

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