The flagship SUV was powered by biofuel during the run.
Bentley has set a new record at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with the Bentayga during the pre-Festival hillclimb. The Bentayga EWB's run utilized renewable biofuel, an eco-friendly alternative made from agricultural waste straw. However, that had nothing to do with the record set by the new long-wheelbase flagship SUV.
Instead, the Bentayga completed the Hillclimb in 1 minute 21 seconds with a trailer in tow, setting a new (unofficial) record for the fastest run for a car and a trailer. The trailer in question carried 6,000 pounds of straw, enough to produce 1,100 miles worth of second-generation biofuel that powered the car up the driveway.
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The use of biofuel results in an 85% reduction in carbon emissions on a well-to-wheels basis. It represents the brand's other approach to sustainability – far different from the battery-powered direction other brands have in mind. Something that Akio Toyoda would approve of.
Bentley said the second-generation biofuel it used is up to the global EN228 standard for gasoline, making it a straightforward replacement for regular pump fuel. This means the Bentayga EWB's turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 was untouched for the record-setting run.
The only modifications were to the Ifor Williams trailer, which needed a bolted frame to secure the straw load and increased tire pressures.
Bentley Bentley
Of note, the second-gen biofuel uses waste materials, including agriculture and forestry waste and food industry by-products. Compared to the first iteration, made from food crops, what Bentley used is more sustainable as it removes the food-versus-fuel dilemma.
All Bentleys running the Hillclimb at the Festival of Speed will run on biofuel for the duration of the event.
The Bentley Bentayga's run was much slower than the official fastest Hillclimb runs at Goodwood. However, considering the trailer's weight, it's a remarkable feat, showcasing the SUV's power.
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Keyword: Bentley Bentayga Sets An Odd Goodwood Hillclimb Record