Bentley's new V-8 hybrid powertrain surpasses the former W-12

Bentley on Wednesday unveiled a new V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain that takes over performance from the venerable W-12, which will end production this summer.

Called the Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain, the hybrid setup delivers peak power in excess of the 740 hp that the 6.0-liter twin-turbo W-12 engine delivers in the end-use Batur and the recently unveiled Batur convertible.

Bentley also stated that the powertrain is powered by a battery that provides an electric range of 50 miles. However, this figure was measured using the WLTP cycle used overseas and would likely be lower if measured using the more stringent EPA cycle.

The automaker has not revealed where this powertrain will first be installed, but it will likely be in the updated Continental GT and Continental GT Convertible.

More details on the powertrain will be announced in the coming weeks, Bentley said.

The stand-alone V-8 engine will also be discontinued soon, as Bentley plans to electrify all models it sells. The stand-alone V-8 engine could be replaced by Bentley's current V-6 plug-in hybrid powertrain, which is already available in the Bentayga Hybrid and Flying Spur Hybrid. This powertrain consists of a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 and an electric motor integrated with the transmission, producing a total of 536 hp.

Bentley will eventually expand into electric powertrains. Bentley's first EV is currently slated to arrive in late 2026. It will be a new model line, not a version of an existing model line.