Bentley is transitioning into an electric-only brand, but the company isn’t giving up on the internal combustion engine quite yet. That’s clear today as they’ve unveiled the most powerful car in their history.
Known as the Bentley Mulliner Batur, the model is a luxurious grand touring coupe that features an upgraded version of the company’s familiar twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12. While the engine is “entering its twilight years,” it’s not dead yet and engineers equipped it with a new intake, upgraded turbochargers, beefy intercoolers, and numerous recalibrations. They didn’t stop there as the engine was also outfitted with a titanium exhaust, which comes complete with 3D-printed titanium finishers.
Thanks to all these changes, the engine produces more than 730 hp (544 kW / 740 PS) and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque. That’s at least 80 hp (60 kW / 81 PS) and 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) more than the Continental GT Speed, which can rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds before hitting a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h).
While Bentley declined to release detailed performance specifications for the Batur, the engine is connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The model also comes equipped with four-wheel steering, torque vectoring, and an electronic limited slip differential.
Other performance features include an adaptive air suspension and an electric active anti-roll control system, which can provide up to 959 lb-ft (1,300 Nm) of anti-roll torque in a mere 0.3 seconds. The model also sports a Carbon-Silicon-Carbide (CSiC) braking system that features ten-piston calipers and 17.3 inch (440 mm) discs up front as well as four-piston calipers and 16.1 inch (410 mm) discs out back.
The Future Of Bentley Design
Besides being the most powerful Bentley in history, the Batur is notable for featuring a modernized design that will “ultimately guide” the styling direction of the company’s upcoming EVs.
The automaker didn’t go into many specifics, but noted the car has been equipped with an updated grille that is lower and more upright for a strong and confident appearance. The model also has an “endless bonnet” as well as minimalist headlights that are described as an evolution of those used on the Bacalar.
Moving further back, we can see edgy bodywork and a pronounced shoulder line. Designers also moved the car’s visual mass rearward for a sportier and more muscular aesthetic.
Other notable highlights include a power deployable spoiler and 22-inch wheels that are unique to the model. Buyers will also find a front splitter, aerodynamic side skirts, and a rear diffuser that can be crafted in either carbon or natural fiber composite.
Production will be limited to 18 units and all of them have already been spoken for despite a base price of £1.65 ($1.95 / €1.94) million. Each will be “designed collaboratively” with its owner and they’ll be able to specify the color and finish of virtually every surface of the Batur. For the exterior alone, there’s the traditional Mulliner color palette as well as fully bespoke options and even hand-painted graphics. Buyers can also choose between light, dark, satin, gloss, or titanium exterior brightwork. Another option is a graduated contrast color grille for a “vibrant ombre effect.”
The interior is extensively customizable as well as clients can order everything from natural fiber composite veneers to more traditional wood trim. If that isn’t special enough, certain controls are available in 3D-printed 18K gold.
Once customers create their ideal vehicle, it will be handcrafted over the course of several months by Mulliner. If everything goes according to plan, the first deliveries should occur in mid-2023.
