The las W12 tourer from Bentley is about to sign off in a while
The Bentley Batur Convertible, the most powerful W12-engined drop-top Grand Tourer in the brand’s history, has commenced its final sign-off testing phase. Crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s bespoke division, this exclusive vehicle is limited to just 16 units. An already limited run car, this convertible version gets even more exclusive.
Each Batur Convertible is equipped with a potent 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing 750 PS of power, the final iteration of this engine as Bentley announced its retirement earlier this year. Validation tests cover over 120 individual assessments, including durability, environmental compatibility, aerodynamics, noise and vibration, and driving dynamics.
Moreover, the testing involves real-world scenarios, initiated by a comprehensive 3,000km drive through Germany, Italy, France, and Spain, culminating in high-speed tests in Idiada, Spain. Paul Williams, Chief Technical Officer for Mulliner, emphasises that this real-world testing is crucial for performance, safety, and reliability, allowing engineers to identify potential issues under varied conditions.
The Bentley Batur Convertible builds on the innovative design established by its coupe counterpart, integrating both powerful performance and luxurious features. It features a convertible roof that can be deployed in just 19 seconds while driving at speeds up to 48km/h, transforming it from a sleek coupe into an open-top Grand Tourer effortlessly.
The design process also allows for extensive customization, enabling each client to tailor every aspect of the vehicle’s appearance and materials. The engineering development vehicles, Car Zero and the Engineering Car, showcase the meticulous attention to detail expected from Mulliner.
On top of that, Car Zero boasts a striking Vermillion Gloss and Satin finish with carbon fibre accents, while the Engineering Car features a Midnight Emerald exterior with a high-gloss carbon fibre body kit. Each car is equipped with unique design elements, including intricate grille patterns and a luxurious cabin that reflects the exterior’s aesthetic.
The Bentley Batur Convertible represents the pinnacle of Bentley’s craftsmanship, performance, and customization, making it a significant milestone as the last model to utilise the iconic W12 engine. As it undergoes final validations, the Batur Convertible promises to deliver an unmatched driving experience that blends power, luxury, and exclusivity.
Well, it seems like with a lot of our beloved petrol powered cars, the end of an era is close and the inevitable shift to fully electric or hybrid powertrains is the only next step we can expect. So bid the last W12 tourer from Bentley goodbye as it will soon be a thing of the past.
