German Car Zone

Merc1 · 10-17-2007, 06:26 AM

Bentley is well under way with a plan to replace the mighty Arnage in 2010. It’s a project that will require the Volkswagen-owned company to address green issues, but will also provide the basis for a new generation of Bentley models for the next decade.

The new car is likely to be built around an aluminium spaceframe chassis made by Audi, skinned with aluminium panels. A major reworking of the factory — in preparation for other future models — could also be part of the Arnage project.

Although the car should be powered by Bentley’s venerable 6.75-litre V8, this is likely to be hooked up to a hybrid drivetrain, using either major components from Audi’s new-generation quattro hybrid running gear, or the hybrid transmission already being developed for the Q7.

In a recent interview, Audi engineering boss Michael Dick said all the new Bentleys would use a version of Audi’s spaceframe, cutting around 150kg from the bare bodyshell.

The Bentleys will use the core of the Audi structure, which will be available in three different sizes, but with new metal from the waistline upwards. For the Arnage the base of the windscreen will be mounted higher and the pillars reshaped.

Bentley says the first evidence of its new, more environmentally friendly thinking will be seen at the 2008 Geneva motor show.

In a candid interview with Autocar, Bentley boss Franz-Josef Paefgen revealed that he regarded the Arnage project as the biggest challenge for Bentley since the 1930s.

“This will be a totally independent car,” he said. “It will not be like the Continental, a derivative of a VW Group product, although it will use components from the group.”

Paefgen also stated his determination to keep the classic 6.75-litre V8 alive. Despite the fact that the engine turns 50 in 2009, Bentley wants it to pass new emissions regulations.

“Meeting the 2009 EU5 emissions limits with this V8 can be done,” he said. “We are now working on the proposed EU6 limits for 2013-15. All our engineers want to keep the engine alive.”

Paefgen also admitted the company now had to face green issues. “We are looking at a long-term problem that will develop over decades and centuries,” he said. “If we have to reduce fuel consumption by 20 per cent, we will do it. But we have to satisfy our customers and build a proper Bentley.”

Autocar understands that the idea of building lighter, smaller cars with downsized engines has been discussed. However, Paefgen hinted that this option had already been dumped.

“We may need to shed weight, but we still need to produce cars of a Bentley size,” he said.

Autocar - Bentley special: Arnage to go green

M

CorpusCallosum · 10-17-2007, 06:31 AM

the day a bentley arnage looks like that is the day you see me up ontop of a skyscraper singing i believe i can fly...

The Artist · 10-17-2007, 06:37 AM

^ile be there on top of that skyscraper for diffrent reasons..

cause thats a frog bentley.. and i dont want the arnage to be a continental frog

Yannis · 10-17-2007, 06:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Artist

cause thats a frog bentley.. and i dont want the arnage to be a continental frog

I knew you wouldn't resist making a comment.

The Artist · 10-17-2007, 06:50 AM

^hehe you know me well

Tarek · 10-17-2007, 08:58 AM

Is VAG is that stupid to pass the frog style to Bentley's flagship? i really hope not!

Merc1 · 04-21-2008, 05:46 AM

They're well ahead of the game at Bentley! Engineers are already busy working on a new Arnage – and we have caught a test mule for the flagship model driving through the firm’s home town of Crewe, Cheshire.

Although the next-generation saloon isn’t scheduled to appear on the road until 2010, top brass within the VW Group are keen for it to be a true Rolls-Royce beater, so the development programme is underway.

Our exclusive pictures prove that the new Arnage will be even bigger than the model it’s set to replace. Look closely at the centre of the car, and you can clearly see the B-pillar has been widened – an indication that the wheelbase has grown.

The increased length will ensure the new range-topper provides limousine levels of space inside. And for the first time ever, bosses are considering the possibility of using a diesel in the Arnage. Bentley’s parent company Audi has a rich heritage of oil-burners, so the options would include the V12 TDI fitted to the Audi R8 (driven in Issue 1,006).

The idea of a Bentley running on derv has traditionally been regarded as taboo, but strict EU emissions laws are forcing the brand to rethink its ‘no diesel’ stance. And an oil-burner would sit well with its reputation for torquey engines and lazy power delivery.

In addition, rumour has it that the W16 engine from the Bugatti Veyron supercar is also under consideration for the big Bentley. It would be most suited to the range-topping Arnage T model, and have enough power to propel the four-door from 0-62mph in well under five seconds. Don’t be surprised to see VW’s new seven-speed DSG gearbox offered, either. It would ensure the perfect blend of refinement and performance.

Inside, the Arnage’s classic luxury design would remain, with a trademark wooden dashboard, deep-pile carpets and leather upholstery. Buyers will also be able to take their pick from the usual array of lavish optional extras to personalise their car – these range from bespoke wood capping to unique colour combinations.

Expect prices for the new Arnage to start from around £180,000, and rise to in excess of £200,000 for the W16-engined Arnage T version.

Bentley Arnage | Auto Express News | News | Auto Express

M

ateekt · 04-21-2008, 06:14 AM

Imo, if Maybach was not able to hold down the mighty Roll's glory, it's way harder for Bentley

...!

Still, can't make a definite statement, until she hit the streets properly

...!

Imhotep Evil · 04-21-2008, 07:21 AM

On the contrary, Bentley's an established brand.

DaSilva · 04-21-2008, 07:28 AM

Very interesting..
I'd love to see what Bentley really can do in this uttrly upper class.

2 years of waitng so no hurry to actually get to much involved today!

VS

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