2013 bentley continental gt speed press release

7/31/2019 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Press Release

1/6

FULL SPECIFICATION DETAILS OF THE CONTINENTAL GT SPEED, BENTLEY'SNEW PERFORMANCE FLAGSHIP

- Full technical details of Bentley's new performance flagship- Fastest production Bentley ever, 205 mph (330 km/h) top speed

- Exhilarating supercar performance from uprated 625 PS (616bhp) W12 engine andeight-speed transmission- 575 PS (567 bhp) GT and GTC also receive eight-speed transmission- 12% improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions for GT W12

(Crewe, England. 22 August 2012). Bentley is releasing full technical details of itsexciting new 205 mph (330 km/h) all-wheel drive performance flagship ahead of itsofficial international show debut at the Moscow Motor Show on 29 August. The newContinental GT Speed is the fastest road-car Bentley has ever produced and orders arebeing taken now, with deliveries scheduled to start in October 2012.

Powered by Bentley's iconic 6-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, the GT Speed develops 625PS (616 bhp) at 6000 rev/min up 50 PS versus the standard Continental GT - with 800Nm (590 lb.ft) of torque available from 2000 to 5000 rev/min (up 100 Nm) for instantlyaccessible high performance. Coupled with a new ZF eight-speed close-ratio automatictransmission and state-of-the-art engine management software, the GT Speeddespatches the zero-to-sixty sprint in 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2s), reaching 100mph (160 km/h) from a standing start in just 9.0 seconds. In-gear acceleration is equallybreath-taking.

In the Bentley Speed tradition, outstanding performance is matched by an enhancedchassis with up-rated springs, anti-roll bars and bushes, a lowered ride height (by 10mm

front and rear) together with re-tuning of the electronically controlled damping andsteering systems.

However, this newest, most powerful addition to the Continental stable still displays therefinement and suppleness that makes a Bentley unique. Even the exhaust note,deeper and more exhilarating under hard acceleration, remains civilised and refinedduring high-speed cruising.

Its all-wheel-drive system, biased 60:40 in favour of the rear, offers reassuring stabilityand the potential to access the prodigious performance all year round in virtually anyweather conditions or road surface.

Subtle signature design cues distinguish the GT Speed from its stable-mates, includingexclusive 21-inch, ten-spoke alloy wheels, dark-tint matrix to the radiator shell and lowerbumper grilles and 'rifled' exhaust tailpipes. Inside the handcrafted cabin, the Speedmodels are specified exclusively with the Mulliner Driving Specification, featuringquilted, perforated leather and bright metal detailing plus a broader choice of optionaltechnical finishes. This now includes the exclusive-to-Speed dark tint aluminium as wellas carbon fibre. The result is a highly distinctive, contemporary, sporting, luxury coupe.


2/6

The 575 PS (567 bhp) W12 powertrain of the Continental GT coupe and GTCconvertible models also benefits from enhancements made to the more powerful GTSpeed. In addition to the new engine management system and eight-speedtransmission, all W12 engines now feature an energy recuperation system. Together,

these deliver a 12% improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions across the GTW12 range and a 10% improvement for the GTC W12.

W12 POWERTRAINGT Speed sophisticated technology for extreme performanceAs the fastest production Bentley ever, the new Continental GT Speed reaffirms thelegendary W12's status as an engine of extreme performance. Developing 625 PS (616bhp) at 6000 rev/min and 800 Nm (590 lb ft) of torque from 2000 rev/min, the twin-turbo,48-valve, 6.0-litre W12 is now fitted with the very latest ME17 engine managementsystem. Capable of performing 180 million individual calculations per second, the newsystem delivers enhanced turbocharger control, outstanding torque management and

improvements to driveability. In addition, a revised Sport mode provides a sharperthrottle with faster response for effortless acceleration at all speeds.

The W12 engine is mated to a ZF eight-speed transmission for the first time. Designedto handle the extreme levels of torque generated by the W12, the transmission cutsacceleration times by ensuring that the engine is always at the ideal speed for peaktorque delivery. This state-of-the-art transmission also features "Block Shifting"technology, capable of shifting directly from (for example) 8th gear to 4th gear forinstantaneous response and thunderous acceleration.

The combination of the new transmission and the uprated engine results in breath-

taking supercar performance. The sprint from 0-60 mph takes just 4.0 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and the relentless acceleration continues to a top speed of 205mph (330 km/h). 0-100 mph is dispatched in a mere 9.0 seconds a level ofperformance akin to the previous generation Continental Supersports, and almost a fullsecond quicker than the updated 575 PS Continental GT.

The exhaust system of the new GT Speed has been developed from the free-breathing,low back pressure design first used on the Continental Supersports Ice Speed Recordcar. The new exhaust produces a sportier, more intense baritone sound under hardacceleration without sacrificing a relaxed, refined and quiet tone during cruisingconditions.

Up to 12% efficiency improvement for all two-door ContinentalsPowertrain developments have not been restricted to the pursuit of outrightperformance. Bentley's engineering team has also focused on enhancing efficiency, andthe power and torque increases for the new GT Speed are accompanied by animprovement of up to 12% in fuel economy, range and CO2 emissions across the two-door model range.


3/6

The new eight-speed transmission delivers six per cent of the total efficiency gain. Theeight close-ratios ensure that the engine operates in its most efficient range duringrelaxed driving, while the very latest software developments ensure that gear changesare both fast and imperceptibly smooth.

The new transmission, together with the ME17 engine management system, is fitted tothe standard Continental GT and GTC models from now.

The W12 engine features recuperation for the first time, delivering a 1.6 per centreduction in CO2 emissions alone. Recuperation is a technology involving precisecontrol of the vehicle's electrical system and alternator to allow flexible generation ofelectricity. The output of the alternator is increased during low engine load conditions,for example when decelerating, with the excess electrical energy stored in the car'sbattery. When the engine is then under load, the alternator output is reduced, increasingoverall engine efficiency while the battery provides the previously stored energy tocompensate.

Reflecting the improvements in efficiency, the Continental GT and GT Speed nowfeature a combined cycle fuel economy of 19.5 mpg (14.5 litres/100km) and CO2emissions of 338 g/km (subject to certification) outstanding figures for a 12-cylindergrand tourer. Meanwhile, the GTC has a combined cycle fuel economy of 19.0 mpg(14.9 litres/100km) and CO2 emissions of 347 g/km.

The efficiency improvements also benefit the performance of the standard GT and GTCmodels. The standard 575 PS GT now takes just 4.3 seconds to accelerate from zero to60 mph (0-100 km/h in 4.5s) with 100 mph (160 km/h) reached in 9.8 seconds from astandstill. The performance of the Continental GTC is equally exhilarating 0-60 mph in

4.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.7s) and 0-100 mph (and 0-160 km/h) in 10.3 seconds.

CHASSISGT Speed lowered, uprated suspension for agility, comfort and refinementThe new Continental GT Speed features significant changes to both chassis hardwareand software for a sporty, engaging drive that matches the formidable powertrain.Aluminium double wishbone front suspension and a trapezoidal multi-link rear setup areretained, but now feature revised air suspension springs and dampers for improvedagility and body control, with roll, pitch and heave all reduced for a more agile drivingexperience.

The self-levelling system constantly monitors ride height and damping according to roadconditions, and positions the car with a ride height 10mm lower than the standardContinental GT. Bentley's chassis engineers have also fitted stiffer suspension bushesfor sharp, communicative handling and uprated anti-roll bars to optimise the handlingbalance.


4/6

Software changes are also wide-ranging, combining to use the revised suspensionhardware to deliver an exciting but refined experience. Steering and suspension controlsystems receive revised calibrations.

Sophisticated stability control, optimised for driver involvement

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system has been optimised to work perfectly intune with the new ME17 engine management system for outstanding drivingperformance. The ESC system retains the "Dynamic Mode" setting that allowsincreased wheel slip at higher speeds, with engine torque reinstated more quickly aftera system intervention. Together, these systems give the spirited driver more opportunityto exploit the full potential of the new chassis setup and higher power output. Steeringfeel and feedback to the driver are both improved, while careful tuning of theContinuous Damping Control (CDC) system means minimal degradation in ride comfortdespite the uprating of the suspension components.

Outstanding stopping power across the Continental range

In line with the standard Continental models, the new GT Speed is fitted with 405 mmdiameter front and 335 mm rear ventilated, cast iron brake discs and eight-pistoncallipers as standard for outstanding stopping power. The boundaries of brakingperformance can be further extended by specifying 420 mm front / 356 mm rear cross-drilled Carbon Silicon-Carbide (CSiC) discs as a cost option. Providing a 20 kg weightsaving over the standard brakes, the fade-free CSiC discs last the lifetime of the carunder normal driving conditions, while brake pad life is doubled. ABS, Electronic BrakeForce Distribution, Hydraulic Brake Assistance, Drag Torque Control and aquaplanedetection are all fitted as standard.

All-wheel drive a performance car for all seasons

For all Continental models, the new eight-speed transmission feeds the famous Bentleywave of torque to a permanent all-wheel-drive system which retains the 60% rear / 40%front torque split first introduced on the Supersports. Allowing the spirited driver tocontrol the car's line and balance using the throttle, the rear-biased torque splitminimises understeer during hard cornering and varies torque between the front andrear axles for optimum grip. Meanwhile, the all-wheel drive system provides reassuringgrip and traction in all road and weather conditions.

BODY DESIGNSculpted coachwork with signature Speed design cuesThe iconic Continental GT has a form that expresses the same balance of power and

elegance, exhilaration and endurance that is provided by its exceptional powertrain. Theclassic Bentley DNA is evident through the sensual powerline that runs the length of thecar, meeting the sculpted rear haunch.

Advanced superforming technology uses high temperatures and pressurised air toshape the front fenders into exquisite, unbroken curves in extremely durable aerospace-grade 5083 aluminium alloy. The latest body construction techniques deliver crisplydefined feature lines and form to every area of the exterior design. The flowing lines and


5/6

curves inspired by the original 1950s R-Type Continental create highly distinctsurfaces, bringing the feel of a truly coachbuilt car to the Continental family.

For the GT Speed, these elegant shapes are enhanced with a suite of signature designcues. A new 9.5J x 21" ten twin-spoke wheel design is exclusive to GT Speed, available

in bright painted or dark tint finishes, and fitted with 275/35 ZR21 tyres. Dark tint radiatormatrix and front bumper grilles enhance the air intakes that pay homage to the Le Manswinning Bentleys of the 1920s to give the front of the new GT Speed a more aggressive,sporting look.

At the rear of the car, new rifled exhaust tailpipes are fitted exclusively to GT Speed andare complemented by chrome rear lamp bezels that are also introduced on ContinentalGT and GTC models. Also fitted as standard to all 6.0 litre Continental models are newW12 badges located below the muscular power line on the front fenders. Beneath thebonnet, the twin turbocharged intake manifolds of the Speed model are uniquelypowder-coated with a black finish. GT Speed treadplates complete the set of exterior

design cues.

Mulliner Styling Specification in polished carbon fibreAll two-door Continental models may also be specified with the striking Mulliner StylingSpecification package option. Available as a dealer-fit accessory, the "Classic Pack"comprises a range of styling features finished in carbon fibre that accentuate the car'siconic shape, including:- Front bumper grille strakes- Front splitter- Side sill extension blades- Rear bumper diffuser

Complementary features include carbon fibre door mirror cowls, the finishing of thestandard rear spoiler in carbon fibre and the fitment of the 21" "Elegant" wheels in aunique black finish.

As well as the 17 exterior paint finishes available as standard to the Continental models,a range of almost 100 additional paint options is available including solid, metallic,pearlescent and satin finishes. Further extending the art-of-the-possible, Bentley'sspecialist paint team can also create bespoke exterior colours to precisely matchcustomer requirements.

INTERIOR DESIGNGT Speed - distinctive, hand-crafted, contemporary, sporting luxury cabinDespite the GT Speed's sporting overtones, this grand tourer retains a hand-craftedinterior created using only the finest natural materials. Soft, supple leathers, polishedveneers and cool-touch metals combine with the meticulous craftsmanship for whichBentley is renowned to provide a cabin of exceptional quality.


6/6

As standard, the new GT Speed is specified with Bentley's luxurious yet sportingMulliner Driving Specification, which features diamond-quilted, perforated leather hidesto all four seats, door trims and rear quarter panels. The cabin headlining is finished inindented leather hide, while optional embroidered Bentley emblems can be specified forthe headrests.

The sports gear lever has a classic knurled finish, while the driver uses drilled alloysports foot pedals. The unique Bentley "Jewel" filler cap is provided as standard, as areDark Stained Burr Walnut or Piano Black veneers.

With its gleaming, geometrically precise overlapping circles, engine-turned aluminium also known as 'engine spin' has indelible associations with Bentley sporting success.The dashboard of 'Old Number One' the Speed Six that won two Le Mans 24 Hourraces is crafted from the same material. With such a pedigree it's natural that Bentleyoffers two engine spin options for the fascia and consoles one in Bright Aluminium andthe other, unique to the Continental GT Speed, in Dark Tint Aluminium. Its understated

shade perfectly complements the dark tint chrome radiator and bumper grilles.

Alternatively, the more recent Bentley Le Mans success is reflected in choosing theCarbon Fibre option for fascia, roof and centre consoles, its satin finish speciallydeveloped to reduce unwelcome reflections.

Seventeen different hide colours are available and as with the rest of the Continentalfamily, the interior of the GT Speed can be specified with duo-tone colour splits,including one split previously exclusive to GT V8. Contrast stitching throughout,including to the steering wheel, is also available.

ADVANCED INFOTAINMENT TECHNOLOGYA new feature of the advanced 8-inch touchscreen, 30GB on-board Infotainment systemis the addition of satellite navigation "Personal Points of Interest". This allows the user tosave places of their choosing (e.g. a specific restaurant) into the system.

The touchscreen displays the car's audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settingsand navigation information, which uses both the hard-disc drive and a DVD player toaccess route data.

An eight-speaker sound system is offered as standard employing the latest BalancedMode Radiator technology. These unique compact, flat-panel speakers provide

exceptional clarity across the audible spectrum and a very wide frequency range. The11-speaker Naim for Bentley system created exclusively by British audiophiles Naim is available across the Continental range.

Music can be played and controlled directly from an iPod as well as from a six-disc CDchanger, SD card reader or directly from the car's hard-disc drive, which can store up to15GB of music. DAB digital radio is also available in regions where the infrastructuresupports it.

2013 bentley continental gt speed press release

Documents