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18 February 2016 | MILTON KEYNES
‘Chauffeurless’ Audi A8 whisks film star to the red carpet Piloted driving technology demonstrator successfully negotiates Berlin traffic to convey celebrity couple to Film Festival red carpet event
• Piloted Audi A8 provides VIP transport for actor Daniel Brühl at Berlinale Film Festival (February 11-21) • Audi technology platform masters complex traffic situation in Berlin • Controlled driving style like a professional chauffeur
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he kind of awe that would normally strike onlookers as a glamorous film star steps onto the red carpet from an Audi A8 has also been elicited by the car itself this week - a completely driverless version of the luxury saloon has whisked movie star Daniel Brühl to a gala event at Germany’s Berlinale Film Festival, posting another milestone on the path to Audi piloted driving in the process. Dispensing with a ‘conventional’ driver, the twelve-cylinder, long-wheelbase A8 L W12 picked up the internationally renowned actor and his girlfriend Felicitas Rombold from their hotel in Berlin and drove them directly to the Berlinale Palast. It travelled in a suitably smooth and stately fashion by registering prominent architectural features along the driving route, comparing this logging with precise mapping and synchronising the information with data from its own calculation of its movements.
Images and article © Copyright Audi
“We are developing and testing our technologies for piloted driving under all conditions”, says Dr. Ing. Stefan Knirsch, Audi Board Member for Technical Development. “We have already proven that we can have piloted cars drive safely on a race track and on the expressway. At the Berlinale, we have now mastered a complex urban traffic situation with maximum ease.” The aim was to make the grand entrance to the red carpet similar to the way an experienced chauffeur would drive – a very gentle and smooth approach and progressive, carefully modulated braking to a stop at the kerbside. For years now, Audi has been testing its systems for piloted driving under increasingly more challenging conditions. The first tests were conducted in 2009 at a salt lake in the USA. One year later, an Audi TTS conquered Pikes Peak in the Rocky Mountains without a driver. In 2013, Audi test platforms performed piloted driving for the first time on public roads in Nevada. In the same year, the brand demonstrated piloted parking – the driver exited a car at the entrance to a parking garage, and the car parked itself autonomously. Later, the driver ordered the car back to the garage exit with a smartphone app. Demonstrating just how dynamic piloted driving can be, an Audi RS 7 Sportback drove a lap at race pace on the grand prix circuit in Hockenheim in October 2014. The following year, Audi sent piloted test platforms onto public roads near the CES and CES Asia consumer electronics trade shows – from Silicon Valley to Las Vegas and in the urban traffic of Shanghai. In October 2015, engineers demonstrated automatic emergency evasive manoeuvres in a test vehicle with moving obstacles in the urban environment. Piloted systems can make a valuable contribution to safety in the future - when used to temporarily assume driving tasks, the predictive technology makes driving more efficient, reduces stress and enhances comfort. In addition, it gives the driver greater freedom to organise time in the car. «
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entley Motors is today announcing the introduction of a new model to its range – the Flying Spur V8 S. Taking its place between the Flying Spur V8 and family flagship W12, the V8 S is tuned for power and performance, with increased engine output and revised suspension offering a more focused, precise driving experience. The Flying Spur V8 S features a number of sporting styling cues which hint at its new and improved sporting capabilities. A black radiator grille and rear diffuser along with a unique grille insert give the new model a dramatic and purposeful appearance to match its enhanced performance. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Flying Spur remains unrivalled in its ability to combine class-leading comfort with remarkable dynamic ability. It’s the perfect choice for the customer who wants ultimate refinement as well as an exhilarating, spirited drive.” The Bentley Flying Spur V8 S will make its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show between 1 and 13 March 2016. First customer deliveries begin in the summer. MORE POWER, SHARPER HANDLING, SAME CLASS-LEADING COMFORT Tuned for power, Bentley’s renowned 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 S engine develops an additional 21 PS, delivering 528 PS (521 bhp / 388 kW) compared to its V8 sibling’s 507 PS (500 bhp / 373 kW). A mighty 680 Nm (502 lb.ft) is on offer from 1,700 rpm. This powers the Flying Spur V8 S to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds), shaving 0.3 seconds from the V8’s already athletic sprint time. Top speed is 306 km/h (190 mph). The increased performance is achieved without detriment to the V8 engine’s impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions, or its ability to cover more than 837 km (520 miles) between fill-ups. The new Flying Spur V8 S
returns a combined cycle fuel economy of 10.9 L/100km (25.9 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 254 g/km. This combination of power, performance and economy is the result of an array of advanced technologies employed in the design of the Bentley V8 engine. Variable displacement, in which four of the eight cylinders shut down when cruising, reduces fuel consumption without any loss of refinement. When more power is required, the engine switches back automatically and seamlessly to the full eight cylinders. The high-technology V8 engine also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, advanced thermal management, energy recuperation via the electrical charging system and innovative turbocharger packaging for greater efficiency. Revisions made to both the engine and transmission calibrations have sharpened throttle response and made the Flying Spur V8 S’s power accessible lower down the rev range. In ‘S’ mode, drivers will find a sharper-still throttle response and additional engine braking from the transmission. Eighth gear is locked out when ‘S’ mode is engaged and the knurled paddle shifters are harmonized with the car’s new, sportier side. In modern Bentley tradition, power is delivered to the road via an all-wheel-drive system with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for a sure-footed, engaging drive in all road and weather conditions. Complementing these power upgrades, a new responsive suspension tuning for the Flying Spur V8 S improves handling and body control, while the aluminium double-wishbone front and trapezoidal multi-link rear selflevelling air suspension with continuous damping control ensure that the Flying Spur’s legendary refinement is maintained.
Careful recalibration of the Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system helps improve handling performance and ensures minimal degradation in ride comfort. The Electronic Stability Control is also optimised for the Flying Spur V8 S. The retuned system allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds with engine torque reinstated more quickly after a system intervention. This provides the spirited driver more opportunity to exploit the full potential of the uprated chassis and increased power. Optional carbon ceramic brakes are available with red or black painted calipers. However, despite these performance-focussed chassis revisions, the Flying Spur V8 S retains its luxurious, limousine-smooth ride and legendary ability to transport passengers in unrivalled comfort.
SPORTING STYLING CUES SIGNAL PERFORMANCE INTENT The Flying Spur V8 S receives dark and sporting exterior highlights. Bentley’s iconic matrix grille is black as standard and together with a Beluga gloss rear diffuser give the Flying Spur V8 S a dramatic on-road presence. The V8 S is clearly defined with a new and exclusive front grille treatment; a combination of black grille with a body-coloured insert. V8 S badging on the rear haunch, V8 S treadplates and 20” open-spoke painted wheels further reveal the model’s identity, mirroring those of its Continental GT V8 S stablemate. For those wishing to display an even more extreme look, the Flying Spur V8 S can be specified with an array of aggressive, dark styling elements. Dark-tint lights (front and
rear), black gloss exterior mirror covers and a unique Mulliner Driving Specification 21” black and bright machined six-spoke wheel can all be specified to menacing effect. Inside the cabin, changes are perfectly matched to the sporting exterior. Piano-black wood veneers and a three-spoke sports steering wheel are standard, while a knurled gear lever and gear shift paddles add tactility to the driving experience. A colour split unique to the V8 S features stunning two-tone seats with a contrasting roof centre bow. V8 S headrest stitching is also offered. CUSTOMER CHOICE EXTENDED FOR FLYING SPUR IN 2016 To make the Flying Spur even more attractive to customers, Bentley has added an array of exceptional optional features. A semi-aniline hide option is now available in W12 and V8 S models. The highest quality hide available in the automotive industry, it gives the cabin an even more comfortable, luxurious and natural feel. Contemporary new straight-fluting on the leather seats adds visual impact, while the Mulliner Driving Specification gains a small- diamond quilting pattern reminiscent of a tailored British jacket.} FLYING SPUR – EXQUISITE, POWERFUL AND INDIVIDUAL With its unrivalled blend of effortless driveability, exquisite craftsmanship and onboard technology, the Flying Spur rightly lays claim to being the world’s finest luxury sedan. Bentley’s design team has developed an athletic vehicle that combines traditional Bentley styling cues with a sporting stance. Sharp feature lines complement muscular rear haunches, while LED daytime running lights, subtle brightware elements and a choice of stylish alloy wheels afford the Flying Spur a modern, contemporary feel.
On the inside, Bentley has created a luxurious, spacious cabin that encases advanced acoustic and electronic technologies in exquisite hand-crafted leather hides and wood veneers. The Flying Spur comes complete with a suite of onboard technology to make it an ideal place for work or relaxation on the move. An innovative Touch Screen Remote, deployed from the veneered rear centre console at the touch of a button, allows control of the car’s climate and infotainment systems from the comfort of the rear seat, while the optional Multimedia Specification brings an extensive Rear Seat Entertainment system. The Flying Spur is available with a WiFi hotspot for connectivity while travelling – confirming the Flying Spur as the ultimate car for work and relaxation. « Images and article © Copyright Bentley
23 February 2016 | NOTTINGHAM
New 600 hp ALPINA B7 supersaloon to be launched at Geneva
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new supersaloon that will reach 62 mph (100 kmh) in just 4.0 seconds and push on to 193 mph will be revealed by ALPINA at the 2016 Geneva autoshow next month. With an ALPINA-optimised 4.4 litre V8 delivering a remarkable 600 hp and 800 Nm (available from 3,000 rpm), the new B7 Bi-Turbo will be the most powerful and most luxurious model in the bespoke vehicle manufacturer’s range. “The B7 Bi-Turbo has been developed to combine very high levels of comfort with astonishing performance and driving dynamics,” explains ALPINA GB brand manager Gary Lott. “The 70-strong ALPINA engineering team, with exceptional access to BMW data and facilities, has not compromised. At the touch of a button, this remarkable vehicle sharpens to provide the agility and lateral dynamics normally associated with a more focussed sportscar, while still retaining the ride quality of a luxury saloon.” One of the keys to this combination of comfort and handling is maintaining the lowest appropriate weight, complementing BMW’s investments in ground-breaking light weight technologies such as the new, high-strength Carbon Core, in which the vehicle’s A-, B- and C-pillars, the transmission tunnel and the windscreen header are all made from carbon fibre composite. To keep both sprung and unsprung mass down, further enhancing driving dynamics and ride comfort on the UK’s uniquely demanding roads, the UK-specification ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo will be available only with Rear Wheel Drive.
UK specification confirmed: will combine astonishing performance with ultimate luxury, comfort and quality Press Conference: Geneva, March 1st at 14:45 on stand 6252
UK cars will also have air suspension, Active Roll Stabilisation and ALPINA-tuned active rear steering, which turns the rear wheels a maximum of three degrees the opposite way to the front wheels at low speeds and the same way at higher speeds. ALPINA has also invested considerable expertise in the engine. The highly-responsive, direct injection V8 uses two specially-developed twin-scroll turbochargers located between the cylinder banks, operating in parallel to deliver up to 1.2 bar with minimum inertia. Particular attention has been paid to airflow optimisation, with short intake paths and optimised radii to allow near-instant throttle response. An indirect intercooler system (air/ water/air) further improves both power and responsiveness, with a main intercooler feeding the two large-volume close-coupled intercoolers. Together with additional radiators, the system ensures the thermodynamic stability of the V8 Bi-Turbo engine at all times, even under the highest sustained loads and most aggressive ambient air temperatures. Wheels are 20” ALPINA Classic 20 spoke with the option of a new, 21” design made from high-strength, forged aluminium with visible wheel bolts and no centre hub covers.
Aerodynamics have been optimised in BMW’s wind tunnel and are enhanced by unique ALPINA front and rear spoilers. The bespoke look is further enhanced by a four-outlet, light weight stainless steel ALPINA sports exhaust system that has been tuned to reduce back pressure as well as providing a choice of two driver-selectable, bass-focussed sounds. ALPINA’s work on the eight-speed automatic transmission is another reason for the exceptional acceleration of the new B7 Bi-Turbo. The result of extensive analysis and strengthening to ensure durability to high mileages - even with the very high torque output of the V8 Bi-Turbo engine - its immense strength means that the torque reduction commonly applied during upshifts is not required. ALPINA’s chassis electronics specialists have developed their own calibration for the Dynamic Traction Control system to ensure that the characteristics of the engine and transmission can be fully exploited for maximum performance and driver enjoyment.
LUXURIOUS, HAND-CRAFTED INTERIORS Inside, the new B7 Bi-Turbo can be specified with an almost limitless range of options. Standard equipment on UK-market cars includes high-end Nappa leather, a leathercovered instrument panel, ceramic applications on selected control elements, soft close doors, a full-colour Head-Up Display and a rear view camera. The driver’s connection with the car and its dynamic performance is enhanced by a sports steering wheel, hand-finished in exceptionally high-quality LAVALINA leather with stitching in ALPINA Blue and Green. Door sills are enhanced by ALPINA Blue illumination of the B7 model inscriptions coordinating with interior ALPINA Blue mood lighting features. The unique ALPINA styling of the exterior can be enriched by ALPINA’s iconic decal sets along the sides and on the front spoiler, while the interior of each car is finished with a unique, numbered production plaque on the centre console. Very small numbers of this astonishing supersaloon will be available in the UK, with prices currently estimated as starting around £115,000. Like all new ALPINAs, the new B7 Bi-Turbo will be supplied with a two year BMW-endorsed warranty. 51 YEARS OF BESPOKE CARS ALPINA Burkard Bovensiepen KG was established on the 1st of January 1965 in Kaufbeuren. Two years later it adopted the now-famouse badge featuring a twin-choke downdraught carburettor and a crankshaft on a shield; a proud symbol of the company’s dedication to superb engineering.
Although today the company is focussed largely on road cars, its ethos has been formed by decades of racing success with a driver roster that includes Derek Bell, James Hunt, Jacky Ickx, Niki Lauda, Brian Muir and Hans Stuck. Throughout this time, the close relationship with BMW was developing, with factory support for road car development and collaboration in motorsport that included commissioning ALPINA to develop the light weight race car that became the now-legendary BMW 3.0 CSL. Today, ALPINA is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-performance luxury automobiles, selling on every continent yet still in numbers small enough to allow each car to be bespoke. Production reached 1,700 in 2014 – a new record – and there are currently no plans for significant volume growth beyond this. “ALPINA is a company that creates subtly stylish, very high performance cars that can be tailored to each customer’s personal requirements, yet offer the long-term comfort and durability required for daily use,” comments CEO Andreas Bovensiepen, son of the company’s founder Burkard Bovensiepen. “We have a unique philosophy and a commitment to engineering excellence that we intend to maintain and build on across the next 50 years.” « Images and article © Copyright BMW
February 23, 2016 | CREWE, ENGLAND
– NEW MULSANNE –
Luxury beyond compare • Bentley’s pinnacle model range now comprises Mulsanne, Mulsanne Speed and Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase models. • Mulsanne is the ultimate statement of Bentley’s craftsmanship and automotive artistry. • Elegantly executed styling revisions give Bentley’s flagship a fresh, modern presence. • New state-of-the-art chassis technologies deliver world’s most refined ride and effortless comfort. • Innovative and advanced on-board technology – cutting-edge features with trademark exquisite luxury. • Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase provides a first-class air-travel experience for the road. • Airline-style rear seats are the new benchmark in passenger comfort. • New Mulsanne range to make global debut at 86th Geneva Motor Show.
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entley Motors is today announcing full details of its new Mulsanne – the ultimate expression of British automotive luxury. Handcrafted in Crewe, England, by a team of highly skilled artisans, the Mulsanne is the flagship of the Bentley range and represents everything the British brand knows about
building the world’s most powerful, most luxurious cars. For the first time, the Mulsanne family now comprises three distinct models, all with their own unique abilities and attributes. The Mulsanne, Mulsanne Speed and Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase all share Bentley’s unrivalled levels of attention to detail and craftsmanship, while at the same time catering for the needs of individual customers.
The new Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, for example, has been designed with the rear-seat passenger in mind. An additional 250 mm of rear legroom, airline-style extending legrests and a rear compartment sunroof combine to create the most relaxing automotive environment in the world. The Mulsanne Speed, meanwhile, is tailored for the driver with 537 PS (530 bhp / 395 kW) and 1,100 Nm (811 lb.ft) of torque resulting in a 0-60 mph time of just 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph. A suite of elegantly executed styling revisions mark the new Mulsanne out from its predecessor. The entire front-end style of the car (forward of the A pillar) has been completely redesigned. The fenders, bonnet, radiator shell, grilles, lights – and bumpers fore and aft – have all been updated, giving the car a more modern and integrated appearance. On the inside, occupants will of course find the world’s finest handcrafted wood, leather and metal fittings, and the new Mulsanne also boasts redesigned seats, new door trims and armrests, unique glass switchgear and an industry-leading palette of 24 exquisite hide colours. The new Mulsanne also features a suite of innovative, cutting-edge technologies. A new touchscreen infotainment system has been developed for the Mulsanne. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “The Mulsanne is the epitome of Bentley’s DNA – exquisite, individual and powerful. It defines luxury in the automotive world and offers a uniquely Bentley blend of luxury and performance. “The three distinct handcrafted models now available each offer customers something different. The Mulsanne, with its understated elegance and sporting purpose, remains the consummate luxury limousine; the Mulsanne Speed is the pinnacle of luxury and performance thanks to its immense power, torque and refinement; and now the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase – with its extraordinary airline-style seats and rear-passenger bias – becomes the
new benchmark in automotive comfort.” The new Mulsanne range will make its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show between 1 and 13 March 2016. First customer deliveries begin in the summer.
New Mulsanne – Pinnacle Luxury for Visionary Customers The front of the new Bentley Mulsanne has been entirely redesigned, with the resultant look exuding a more modern, integrated air. The new, imposing front end is dominated by a large stainless steel vertical-vane grille, 80 mm wider than before, that celebrates the great models of the past, such as the 8 Litre of 1930, Embiricos and R-Type Continental. Through these vertical vanes the Bentley matrix grille is visible.
Positioned either side of this are a pair of floating all-LED headlamps. These new units feature advanced adaptive technology and greatly increased night vision, with beam patterns that automatically adjust to suit the driving conditions. The LED lights sit flush within the seamless superformed aluminium front fenders. Innovative design features, like the discreet chrome-capped headlamp washers that sit within the adjacent outer lamps, demonstrate an ethos of precise execution of detail. A new horizon line is also created across the front of the Mulsanne by raising the outer lamps so that their bases are in line with the main headlights. The new one-piece bumper, radiator shell and bonnet integrate seamlessly with flush joins creating more visual width and presence. These features flow down to a lower vane-grille section, which is in turn flanked by ‘B’ signature matrix elements – pushed further out to the corners by 53 mm either side – and finished in bright chrome.
The brightware detailing continues on either side of the Mulsanne with a new B-shaped wing vent incorporated into the lower section of the fender. At the rear, this more planted appearance continues with new tail lights and a redesigned bumper. The bumper, which has 26 mm wider lower corners and a strong light-catching feature line, creates a more purposeful appearance. The new tail lamps incorporate a ‘B’ theme with light guides creating an instantly recognisable signature – particularly in the dark. On the inside, the Bentley Mulsanne’s reputation for offering the finest automotive interior in the world is further enhanced. It takes more than 150 hours to create the sumptuous soft-touch leather interior, which now features redesigned seats, armrests and door trims. The Mulsanne’s seats – the industry benchmark for comfort – are now available in two new styles: Fluted, or Quilted. Customers also have the choice of 24 hide colours and single or duo-tone finishes.
Hand-selected veneers form pure and elegant surfaces throughout the cabin, and each of the 40 pieces are shaped by Bentley’s artisans from a choice of 13 different veneers, and finished with trademark attention to detail. Elsewhere in the cabin, bright-polished stainless steel, unique glass switchgear, traditional knurled controls and deep-pile carpets enhance the pinnacle luxury environment. A suite of innovative and advanced technologies have been added, ensuring that the new Mulsanne is as technologically advanced as it is luxurious. The new Mulsanne features a completely new infotainment system, boasting class-leading navigation technology. It also features a selection of on-board infotainment systems that raise the bar for audio and visual entertainment on the move. The core of the new system is an all-new touch-screen-based infotainment platform with additional haptic controls, classic analogue gauges and state-of-the-art rear-seat entertainment. The main 8” display touch screen is connected to a 60 GB solid-state hard drive for the storage of on-board media. High Beam Assist automatically switches between high beam and dipped headlights when oncoming vehicles are detected. The system also adapts the shape of the light beam according to vehicle speed in three separate modes – Town, Country and Motorway. Between 10 km/h and 250 km/h the Blind Spot Warning system detects vehicles behind the Mulsanne and in its blind spots, predicting the possibility of a collision. Visual warnings are issued to the driver via flashing lights in the door mirrors. For additional safety while on the move, the new Mulsanne comes with Advanced Automatic Stability Control (ASC) including collision mitigation features. The new Mulsanne can be specified with the world’s most powerful automotive OEM audio system – Naim for Bentley Premium Audio. This bespoke on-board audio system features
20 speakers, 20 channels, a 2,200 watt amplifier and Super Tweeters, for unrivalled re-creation of the highest audio frequencies. Rear-seat passengers benefit from the introduction of the Bentley Entertainment Tablet – a pair of 10.2” Android devices (with 4G, WiFi and Bluetooth) seamlessly integrated into the backs of the front seats. With typically exquisite attention to detail, a single touch of a button engages a beautifully weighted mechanism, smoothly deploying the screens from their stowed positions. The Android-powered tablets, which feature a Bentley-specific interface, have access to over a million Android Apps – such as Skype, Google Play and Spotify – and can be used away from the car, in the office and at home. Each tablet has 32 GB of on-board storage (expandable to 128 GB via a Micro-SDXC card), USB ports and a front-facing camera. Audio can also be streamed through the vehicle speakers, and new destinations can be sent from the tablets to the Mulsanne’s navigation
system. Internet browsing is via the car’s 4G WiFi system, permitting access to internet radio and local or streamed video. In the new Mulsanne, the mighty 6¾-litre V8 develops 512 PS (505 bhp / 377 kW) and 1,020 Nm (752 lb.ft) of torque. This immense power – channelled though an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission – is available from just above idle right across the rev range, ensuring that with even the slightest input the driver is immediately rewarded with phenomenal acceleration. The sprint to 60 mph is dispatched in just 5.1 seconds en route to a top speed of 184 mph (296 km/h). The Mulsanne’s V8 engine features key technologies such as cylinder de-activation and variable cam phasing, which reduce both fuel consumption (19.3 mpg / 14.6 L/100 km on the combined cycle) and CO2 emissions (342 g/km). The Mulsanne’s prodigious power and torque are complemented by all-new chassis hardware including active engine mounts and suspension
Images and article Š Copyright Bentley
bushes. To further enhance the trademark hushed ride, Bentley has integrated the latest noise absorption technology into the Mulsanne’s tyres. This advanced foam architecture reduces interior cabin noise by up to 4 dBA and provides an unmatched level of ride refinement. The Drive Dynamics Control system, operated by a rotary switch mounted next to the gearshift selector, can be used to choose from three standard modes – Bentley, Sport and Comfort – offering precise calibration of suspension and steering control systems. A fourth mode, Custom, allows the driver to select bespoke settings via the multimedia system to ‘tune’ the Mulsanne to a preferred driving style. The air suspension system with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) creates a refined and comfortable ride at lower speeds, and lowers the Mulsanne’s ride height automatically at high speeds to reduce lift and improve aerodynamic stability. With 20” alloy wheels and 265/45 ZR 20 tyres as standard, dynamic handling is assured. Customers may also opt for 21” wheels, available in three styles, fitted with 265/40 ZR 21 tyres.
Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase: Rear Passenger Comfort Redefined Designed for customers with a preference for being driven, the Bentley Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase offers a first-class air-travel experience for the road. The 250 mm extension of the Mulsanne’s wheelbase (from 3,266 mm up to 3,516 mm) is entirely to the benefit of rear-seat passenger legroom. This significant increase in interior space makes the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase the most generously proportion pinnacle luxury limousine in the world, and by far the most comfortable way to travel on four wheels. To make the best use of the additional rear legroom, Bentley has developed airline-style electronic legrests which are integrated into the bases of the two rear seats. These extend outward and pivot, affording rear-seat passengers
the luxury of choice between upright, relaxed and reclined seating positions. A beautifully appointed console separates the two rear seats in the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase. Ornate and functional, the console is appointed in the finest handcrafted veneer, metal, glass and leather and houses practical features such as USB ports, pen holders, cup holders and a glass-covered stowage area. For those passengers who wish to work on the move, both rear seats can also be specified with a deployable, folding table. For privacy, electric curtains at the rear are standard fitment and can be tailored with either a black or champagne coloured interior lining. Rear-seat passengers also benefit from a large-format sunroof over the rear cabin. Controlled by the passengers or the driver, the tilting and sliding glass panel (with Alcantara sun blind) allows natural light to flood into the Mulsanne’s beautifully appointed cabin
and clearly reinforces the Extended Wheelbase’s focus on the rearward passenger. For additional differentiation and choice, customers are able to specify their cars in a wide range of duo-tone exterior paint combinations and with a beautiful new 21” wheel.
Mulsanne Speed: Exquisite Luxury with Driving Satisfaction Featuring a more powerful version of Bentley’s mighty 6¾-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, the new Mulsanne Speed is truly tailored for the driver. With 537 PS (530 bhp / 395 kW), 1,100 Nm (811 lb.ft) of torque and selectable sports suspension, the Speed combines outstanding driving satisfaction with supreme comfort. The Speed dispatches the sprint to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds) and has a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) – unrivalled figures in the ultra-luxury sector.
The connection between the car and driver is key, so the Speed’s engine is paired with a recalibrated ZF 8-speed gearbox designed to enhance the driving experience. The gear strategy is optimised to make best use of the increased engine output, and is designed for instant delivery. ‘S’ mode gives the driver even more control, and maintains the engine speed above 2,000 rpm so that the turbochargers are always spooled and ready to deliver instantaneous performance. To make the most of the Speed’s effortless power and acceleration, an even more driver-focused Sport suspension mode is included. While the Bentley and Comfort suspension modes provide a comfort-focused and fully compliant chassis set-up, the Sport mode stiffens the all-round air suspension for improved body control and adjusts the steering dynamics for greater feedback and accuracy. The Mulsanne Speed features a series of uniquely assertive styling features that mark it out as the high-performance pinnacle flagship. A dark tint finish is applied to the exterior brightware, affording the Speed a more menacing appearance. Exclusive 21” hand-finished ‘Speed’ alloys; dark tinted front and rear lamps; rifled sports exhausts; and Speed fender badging highlight the credentials of the world’s fastest ultra-luxury driving experience. On the inside – in addition to the interior updates common across the Mulsanne range
– the Speed also benefits from a number of new features that highlight its athletic, sporting abilities. For example, the Mulliner Driving Specification interior comes as standard, adding diamond-quilted seats, a knurled gear lever, drilled alloy sport pedals and optional carbon fibre waistrail inserts.
The Pinnacle of Automotive Luxury, Handcrafted in Crewe The Mulsanne is handcrafted from the ground up in Crewe, with its 400-hour production journey beginning in the Body in White workshop. Working by hand and by eye, master metal workers expertly complete 5,800 individual welds. Where the roof flows into the rear haunch through the deep D-pillar, a dedicated team brazes the joint by hand until it is totally imperceptible. It takes a human touch to achieve, and once painted is completely invisible to the eye – looking and feeling as though it were hewn from a solid piece of metal. The sculpted nature of the Mulsanne’s body means that the paint must be applied in different depths to appear even, which is why each one is hand-sprayed. After lacquering, each car is fine-sanded before being polished with lamb’s wool for 12 hours to achieve an appearance so reflective it’s termed the ‘Bentley Mirror Finish’ – and is the industry benchmark. Opening the door of the Bentley flagship
reveals a foundation of solid walnut, cherry or oak visibly running through the dashboard and overlaid with a choice of 13 different veneers. After the root burl has been steamed and finely sliced into 0.6 mm thick bundles of veneer, Bentley veneer experts travel to wherever it may be to analyse the results. The final selection process occurs at Crewe, where the veneer is chosen by the craftsperson who will ultimately bring it to life. Only the most highly ‘figured’ sections – parts with naturally decorative marks – are chosen, before being mirror matched and applied to the solid wood substrate. Of the 400 hours it takes to build a Mulsanne, around 150 are dedicated to creating the sumptuous leather interior – before additional options are considered. Stitched, shaped and finished entirely by hand, the completed seats, doors and other leather accoutrements rival the quality of luxury domestic furniture. The contrast stitching alone takes 37 hours to complete. «
23 February 2016 | GOODWOOD
ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS BRINGS SEVENTH GENERATION OF PHANTOM TO AN END Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated production in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018. He also announced that Phantom CoupĂŠ and Drophead CoupĂŠ models will not be renewed in the future. These two magnificent Phantom models will end their lives with a special collection of only 50 highly desirable cars to be called Phantom Zenith Collection.
T
he current seventh generation of Phantom started production in Goodwood over 13 years ago and quickly became the foundation upon which the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was built. A magnificent, graceful and powerful statement of the marque’s claim to the very pinnacle of super luxury, Phantom VII is now approaching the end of its production. During November this year, the build of the very last Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé at Goodwood will be completed. These models will not be replaced. Collectors around the world will be excited to learn that a spectacular collection of 50 unique Coupés and Dropheads, called Phantom Zenith Collection, will be built to celebrate the end of production of these truly exceptional cars. Rolls-Royce will also build the last Phantom VII limousines this year. Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes said, “I am proud and excited to announce that a new Phantom is on the way – a contemporary and beautiful Phantom enhanced with cutting-edge technologies and design innovations. Any new Phantom is an historic and important moment in automotive history and we are working hard on perfecting the Phantom VIII.” Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reset the benchmark for luxury motor cars in 2003 when it launched Phantom VII, a motor car that has remained the pinnacle of pure luxury for the last 13 years. Over those years Rolls-Royce created many fantastic Phantoms that stunned the world with their beauty and redefined the notion of pure luxury motoring. Now it is time to take the next step in the luxury journey.
PHANTOM VII – CONTINUING TO SET THE LUXURY BENCHMARK EVEN AS IT PREPARES TO LEAVE THE WORLD STAGE Even as it prepares to leave the world stage, Phantom VII will continue to set the benchmark for luxury motoring with a number of limitedrun collector’s pieces, each of which will be the last of their line. To mark their exit, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Bespoke design department will create the most highly Bespoke examples of each Phantom model to date – Coupé, Drophead Coupé and Limousine. At the same time the craftspeople who build each Rolls-Royce motor car to roll down the line at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood are already preparing themselves for the painstaking work that will go into these very special final motor cars. PHANTOM ZENITH COLLECTION – THE VERY PINNACLE OF AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE The first of these special collections will be named Phantom Zenith Collection, and will be the last ever Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models available to commission from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “As the name promises, Phantom Zenith Collection will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged,” comments Director of Design, Giles Taylor. “It will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added. We expect huge demand for these 50 fine cars as we shall not look upon their like again.” Such surprise features will include a Tailgate Hosting Area; laser etched armrests depicting the original launch locations of 100EX in Villa D’Este and 101EX in Geneva; Bespoke instrument dials and a special treatment of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Each customer will
Images and article © Copyright Rolls-Royce
also receive a ‘money cannot buy’ portable memento of his or her purchase, whilst the motor cars will be offered to clients in a palate of memorable colour combinations from Rolls-Royce’s history. PHANTOM VII – THE RETURN OF THE PINNACLE OF AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE The launch of the seventh generation Rolls-Royce Phantom, on 1 January 2003, was much more than the reveal of a new super-luxury car; it signalled the 21st Century renaissance of the world’s most famous luxury automobile brand and the first glimpse of a masterpiece that quickly established itself at the pinnacle of automotive excellence, leading where others could only try to follow. For the preceding five years, and in the absence of publicity, designers, engineers and craftspeople had overseen the birth of a flagship Rolls-Royce motor car and state-ofthe-art production facility on the Goodwood Estate in Southern England. Without parallel in the car industry, the achievement was all the more astonishing for a brand which shouldered the weight of automotive history and for which expectations for the future were rightly very high.
From launch, the Rolls-Royce Phantom proved itself a worthy recipient of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. From its Pantheon grille to long rear overhang, the design was clearly a Rolls-Royce. Every angle revealed a bold yet elegant car with road presence that was second to none. From 2005, new variants of Phantom VII were added. First was the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, followed by the ultimate in luxurious open-top motoring, the Phantom Drophead Coupé in 2007 and, in 2008, the Phantom Coupé, Rolls-Royce’s sophisticated grand tourer. All these beautiful cars are timeless in their appeal, and have been the cornerstone of Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke offering to its clients’ sophisticated requirements, allowing them to create individual works of art with their superlative cars. Today, every Phantom that leaves the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood has Bespoke features. ‘Waterspeed’, ‘Aviator’, ‘Metropolitan’, ‘Maharajah’ and ‘Serenity’ are a few of the names of Iconic Bespoke Phantoms which have entered private collections around the world and will live down the years as some of the most beloved Rolls-Royces ever. «
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