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Bentley has showcased the future of sustainable luxury with the world’s first eFuel-powered global media drive for the fourth-generation Continental GT Speed. This event highlighted the use of eFuel, a synthetic fuel developed with Porsche, to reduce emissions during the event. Bentley achieved a 93% reduction in vehicle emissions compared to previous media events and offset emissions from international flights using carbon credits.
Key Highlights
- First global media drive powered by eFuel, hosted in Switzerland.
- eFuel sourced from Haru Oni pilot plant in Chile, developed with Highly Innovative Fuels (HIF) and Porsche.
- 93% drop in vehicle emissions during the event, using eFuel and renewable electricity.
- Reduction of carbon emissions by 30% per guest compared to past events.
- Bentley aims for full electrification while researching alternative fuels like eFuel and biofuels.
Bentley’s event, held in Switzerland, gathered 157 guests to experience the fourth-generation Continental GT Speed. The use of eFuel, sourced from the Haru Oni pilot plant in Chile, allowed Bentley to demonstrate the compatibility of eFuel with existing combustion engines. The Haru Oni plant utilizes biogenic CO2, hydrogen from water electrolysis, and renewable electricity to create methanol, which is then refined into eFuel. The blend used for the event was 75% eFuel and 25% ordinary gasoline.
During the event, Bentley utilized 100% renewable electricity for charging hybrid batteries, contributing to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. The drive route included navigating over 4,500 hairpin turns and 1,400,000 ft of total elevation gain, yet Bentley achieved a 30% reduction in carbon emissions per guest compared to similar previous events.
Bentley’s fourth-generation Continental GT Speed has been certified at 29 g/km CO2 and 217 mpg and is expected to be available to customers next year. Emissions from the on-site event were reduced drastically, but Bentley continues to offset emissions from international travel through carbon credits.
Bentley is committed to researching alternative fuels, such as eFuels and bio-derived fuels, as part of its strategy leading up to full electrification. The company aims for well-to-wheel sustainability, ensuring no more CO2 is produced than what is required to create the fuel initially.
The new Continental GT Speed is Bentley’s most powerful road-going model, featuring an Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain with 782 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque. The powertrain is supported by a new chassis system that includes Bentley Dynamic Ride, torque vectoring, and enhanced suspension for superior ride comfort. The design evolution continues, with significant updates to the exterior and further enhancements to the luxury cabin interior.
Bentley’s sustainable initiatives extend beyond the vehicle itself, incorporating environmentally-focused accommodations, renewable-powered infrastructure, and comprehensive efforts to minimize waste and reduce plastic use during the event. This marks a significant step in Bentley’s journey towards sustainable luxury.
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