Carbon-Fiber Wheels are Fitted to the Bentley Bentayga Apex Edition
While improving performance through lightweighting is a common update in the automotive industry, large, powerful SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga are not usually the target for this strategy.
Bentley, however, has painstakingly integrated the performance philosophy into the Bentayga platform, yielding the Bentayga Apex Edition, which was introduced on Monday.
The SUV has been equipped with carbon fiber 22-inch wheels in an effort to decrease unsprung mass. Along with the wheels, the brakes’ carbon-ceramic rotors result in an approximate 97-pound reduction in unsprung mass. According to Bentley, this enhances steering agility.
Because the carbon-fiber wheels are more rigid than the aluminum ones that come standard, there is less camber loss from wheel flex, according to Bentley, which enhances grip levels.
The aerodynamic package, which comprises of side sills, a rear spoiler, and a front splitter, uses more carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is also utilized for the side mirror covers and certain interior trim pieces. The Naim premium audio system that is available for the Bentayga is standard as well.
The Bentayga S serves as the basis for the Bentayga Apex Edition. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine produces 542 horsepower, which translates to a 4.4-second 0-60 mph acceleration time and a top speed of 180 mph. It also comes equipped with the rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll systems that are standard on the Bentayga.
Bentley has applied a unique livery with a center stripe that extends over the hood and roof, a la Dodge Durango SRT, to make the SUVs stand out. Owners of the Continental GT Le Mans Edition from the previous year can commission an example of the SUV with details matching their unique coupe and convertible, but there are only six color variations available.
There will only be 20 Bentayga Apex Edition vehicles produced by Bentley for global distribution. The carmaker has not stated if build slots will be made available to customers in the United States. Additionally, no pricing has been disclosed.
