Bentley has delivered a shocking performance at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, setting a new, albeit unofficial, hillclimb record. The Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB), Bentley’s latest flagship model, completed the climb in a blistering 1 minute 21 seconds. This achievement is amplified by the remarkable fact that the luxury vehicle achieved this while towing 2.75 tons of straw, enough to produce 1,100 miles worth of second-generation biofuel.
The Bentayga EWB’s record-setting run utilized this renewable biofuel, an eco-friendly alternative made from agricultural waste straw. This sustainability initiative resulted in an 85 percent reduction in carbon emissions on a well-to-wheels basis, representing a significant step towards Bentley’s commitment to green energy through a unique, different approach than the battery-electric appraoch to automotive sustainability.
The Bentayga EWB’s trailblazing performance underscores the potential of second-generation biofuel to power high-end vehicles without sacrificing performance or range. This biofuel aligns with the global EN228 standard for gasoline, positioning it as a feasible replacement for traditional pump fuel.
Bentley’s record was made even more astounding considering the vehicle was towing an Ifor Williams trailer loaded with 2.5 tonnes of straw, the raw material for the biofuel. Despite this considerable load, the Bentayga EWB demonstrated its superior power and stability throughout the climb, showing off the car’s mix of luxury, power, and practicality. This record was set on a pre-Festival run for safety purposes. However, it remains a testament to Bentley’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with renewable energy in the luxury automobile industry.
Unlike first-generation biofuels derived from food crops, this second-generation biofuel uses waste products, effectively resolving the ‘food versus fuel’ conundrum associated with earlier biofuels. The process involves breaking down waste biomass via fermentation to create ethanol. Subsequent dehydration transforms ethanol into ethylene, and a process known as oligomerization converts it into gasoline. This innovative fuel is 100% renewable, reducing CO2 emissions by an estimated 85% compared to conventional gasoline.
This record-setting run is part of Bentley’s continued effort to trial sustainable fuel solutions, highlighting its commitment to minimizing its environmental impact while delivering unrivaled power and luxury. Both the Bentayga EWB and its trailer are now on display at the Festival of Speed, accompanied by a short film covering the impressive climb. As Bentley’s showcase of renewable energy at Goodwood kicks off in style, the automaker leaves no doubt that luxury and sustainability can indeed coexist, pioneering a new era for green power in the high-end auto sector.
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Sources: Bentley