Bentley announces its most potent and radically styled convertible ever – the 202mph (325km/h) Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ convertible. This new model, limited to just 100 cars worldwide, is a celebration of the Company’s world ice speed record set two weeks ago byFinland’s four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen in a Bentley Continental Supersports convertible.

Driving the all-wheel drive, biofuel-powered 6-litre, 12-cylinder Continental Supersports convertible on the perilous frozen Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland,  Kankkunen achieved a speed of 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) eclipsing his own ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the Continental GT.

Both the new Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ convertible and Juha’s record-breaking Supersports will be on display on the Bentley stand at the Geneva Show from 1st March.

Wolfgang Duerheimer, Bentley’s new Chairman and Chief Executive, said:

“Juha Kankkunen’s drive was a remarkable achievement and worthy of a very special car. The Continental Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ is a true driver’s car that captures that unique Bentley spirit. It offers extreme performance, agility and an extrovert personality, while retaining the refinement, handcrafted luxury and comfort our customers expect.”

Bentley’s most powerful 6 litre W12 engine with FlexFuel technology

The 6-litre, twin turbo-charged W12 engine, produces 640 PS (631 bhp / 471 kW) – the most powerful Bentley ever – and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque. Paired with a Quickshift six-speed automatic transmission, it launches the convertible ‘Ice Speed Record’ model from 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.0s) and reaches 100mph from a standing start in only 9.5 seconds (0-160 km/h in 9.4s).

The additional engine power of the new convertible is the result of fine tuning of the engine to optimise the benefits of the new free-breathing air intake ducts, intercooler system and the exhaust system.

And true to the Bentley tradition of delivering instantly available and exhilarating performance in real world driving conditions, the ‘Ice Speed Record’ convertible will sprint from 50-75mph (80-120 km/h) in just 2.5 seconds.

In common with its Continental stable mates, the new Supersports model runs on both petrol (gasoline) or E85 bio-ethanol or any combination of the two. Pioneered in the Supersports coupe, this FlexFuel technology offers a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a well-to-wheel basis, a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. The on-board fuel supply system monitors the content of the fuel tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel.

The all-wheel drive system provides outstanding traction in all weather conditions. The drive is transferred between the front and rear axles automatically via a Torsen centre differential. The standard 40 front/60 rear torque split provides optimum traction and modulation of line and attitude by ’throttle steering’ for more enthusiastic drivers.

The new exhaust system with reduced back pressure benefits gas flow while delivering a sporty baritone note under hard acceleration. On light throttle cruising, the new Supersports model remains impressively refined.

Large diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), carbon ceramic brake discs, with eight-piston calipers at the front provide fade-resistant stopping power. This lightweight system also reduces unsprung and rotating mass, benefiting steering response and handling. As with all Supersports models the ‘Ice Speed Record’ is fitted as standard with Pirelli 275/35ZR20 ultra high performance tyres.

Dramatically extrovert styling

Just 100 examples of this dramatically styled new model will be built at Bentley’s Crewe factory. The Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ is distinguished by its vibrant and muscular styling cues that reinforce the uncompromising performance credentials of this extreme Bentley convertible.

Bentley’s designers have selected three ‘stand-out’ exterior paint colours for the new convertible: Beluga, Quartzite and, fittingly, Arctica White. These colours are complemented by a Dark Grey Metallic soft top with Bentley’s refined three-ply composite construction.

The unique appearance of the soft top is created in the outer layer by a ‘grey’ acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent ‘metallic look’ in a twill weave construction.  The car’s potent performance is further accentuated by 20” inch, 10-spoke Supersports wheels with a dark tint finish.

Contemporary luxury craftsmanship and advanced technology

The dramatic character of the four-seat Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ continues in the cockpit in which traditional Bentley craftsmanship and fine detailing are given an even more extrovert interpretation.

Traditional leather hides sit alongside a range of contemporary materials for a distinctly sporting style. This includes diamond-quilted Alcantara to doors, quarter panels and seat facings, and ‘soft-grip’ leather on the steering wheel and gear lever.

Unique to the ‘Ice Speed Record’ model, the high-gloss carbon fibre on the dashboard, centre console and roof panel, features a unique red weave. The theme continues with Pillar Box red piping to seats and doors, and Pillar Box Red contrast stitching to seats, door casings, steering wheel and gearshift paddles.

The front seats and floor mats also feature embroidered ‘Supersports’ legends while the signature Breitling dashboard clock also has a red accent.

The Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’, despite its ice racing pedigree, is clearly no ‘stripped out’ racer. Its highly specified interior has the highly-advanced touchscreen infotainment system from the new Continental GT that provides rich map imagery and a 30GB on-board hard drive.

An 8-inch screen displays the car’s audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settings as well as the very latest navigation system, which uses both an in-car hard-disc drive and a DVD player to access route data. It also utilises dynamic navigation to avoid heavy traffic spots, locates destinations using geo-tagged photos from an SD memory card and is Google Maps-compatible for most markets.

The infotainment system, with 7-digit postcode entry, combines touchscreen controls and classic Bentley knurled rotary switches to offer instant usability. It is complemented by a new driver information panel (DIP) located in the main instrument cluster. The new wide-screen DIP employs TFT technology and enhanced graphics provide the driver with clear and easily accessible information about a wide range of car systems.

Mazda Motor Corporation will showcased the world premiere of its new MINAGI compact crossover SUV concept car during the press days of the 2011 Geneva motor show, which is being held from March 1-13, 2011. The Mazda MINAGI concept fully embraces Mazda’s new SKYACTIV technologies and its new design theme, KODO – Soul of Motion. The exciting MINAGI concept is the forerunner to the launch of Mazda’s upcoming next-generation products and symbolises the evolution of the Mazda brand as it begins a new era.

The Mazda MINAGI is a compact crossover SUV concept that combines Mazda’s SKYACTIV technologies — which represent the harmony between driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance — with emotional KODO design that communicates pent-up energy bursting with vitality as the vehicle nimbly navigates a sprawling urban cityscape. Fully introducing SKYACTIV technologies throughout, MINAGI is equipped with a SKYACTIV engine and SKYACTIV transmission fitted to a SKYACTIV-Body and chassis that merge comprehensive weight reduction with the assurance of ample safety features.

The Alfa Romeo Pandion, first shown at Geneva this year, has had it’s Hollywood debut courtesy of a new video by director Isaac J. Rosenthal.

The ad was shot in the El Mirage drylake, a positively World-famous car photography venue, and on location in LA. The Mohave desert location proved particularly harsh for the concept car, which was far from fully production ready.

“By the time we got the car it had about 5 miles on the clock. That day it was reading about 40 celcius..” said Rosenthal.

The video puts the viewer very much in the midst of the action and leads us into Alfa Romeo’s vision of the future. It’s awesome to see a concept get this kind of treatment and glamourous promotion in 2010.

This is the seventh year for the contest, and this year designers were asked to envision the “1,000 lb. car” and tasked to imagine an efficient four-passenger vehicle that maintained comfort, safety, driving performance and style while not exceeding the weight requirement.

“The Cadillac Aera concept was designed to continue the forward-thinking imagination of Cadillac’s ‘art and science’ philosophy,” explains Jussi Timonen, lead designer for the project. “It’s designed as a small city urban vehicle, but we approached this 2+2 touring coupe very much from the brand’s luxury perspective. Every detail of the Aera was conceived to minimize the vehicle’s environmental impact without sacrificing the style, comfort and attention to detail that are hallmarks of the Cadillac brand.”

The Aera is powered by compressed air via a highly efficient Pneumatic Drive System that has a 10,000-psi composite air storage tank with capacity for a 1,000-mile range. Flexible, pressurized air cells in the exterior skin, similar to material developed for the NASA Mars Rover airbags, enhance passive safety and interior comfort. The flexible polymer skin optimizes aerodynamics and functions as an ultra-lightweight alternative to conventional body panels and glass.

Aera’s body utilizes a 3D lattice, mono-formed frame that was designed to be similar to configurations found consistently in nature. The structure is formed from unique, alloy-utilizing, semi-solid freeform manufacturing, creating a naturally strong, extremely lightweight frame. All major body parts, including interior components, are essentially “grown” into a single part lattice structure.

The interior is crafted with an ultra-light recyclable polymer that allows for HVAC channels, fully adjustable seating, storage and comfort features all in one mono-form structure. Generous storage space accommodates luggage for two people.

Additional technologies include an all-in-one wheel system that combines rotary actuator propulsion, steering and suspension functions. A drive-by-wire system decreases the mass of electrical components, while vehicle-to-vehicle communication promotes active safety.

The concept was conceived in GM’s North Hollywood Advanced Design Studio by Frank Saucedo, director; Phil Tanioka, vehicle designer; Brent Wickham, concept strategist; Shawn Moghadam, layout designer, and Timonen, the project manager. Earlier this week, GM commemorated 10 years of advanced design at the L.A. area studio.

“This year’s design challenge was extremely difficult to judge because of the quality of all of the entries, but I believe that the executions that won exemplified everything that we were trying to achieve with this competition,” said Stewart Reed, chair, Transportation Design, Art Center College of Design. “The concepts that won were really spot on for their brands, which was one of many reasons for the victory.”

General Motors Director of Design Frank Saucedo and his team celebrate winning the 2010 Design Challenge as part of the Los Angeles International Auto Show Thursday, November 18, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. (General Motors News Photo)

The Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles automobile designers’ conference and has evolved into an integral element of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Design Los Angeles connects those working in the design industry with well-known automotive design industry leaders. Los Angeles is home to the world’s largest concentration of manufacturer design studios, representing automakers from North America, Europe and Asia. It is also the home of Art Center College of Design, one of the world’s foremost transportation design institutions where many of today’s leading automotive designers began their careers.

General Motors Designer Jussi Timonen is congratulated as his team is announced as the winner of the 2010 Design Challenge at the Los Angeles International Auto Show

The first and largest global automotive OEM design function, General Motors has a network of 10 Design Centers in eight countries around the world. More than 1,500 men and women are responsible for the design development of every GM concept and production car and truck globally. The Design Centers are located in the United States, Germany, England, Korea, China, Australia, Brazil and India, and GM Design employees represent more than 99 percent of all countries across the globe. GM Design is led by Ed Welburn, Vice President, Global Design. Welburn is only the sixth Design leader in GM history, and the first to lead all of the company’s Global Design Centers.

General Motors Director of Design Frank Saucedo (third from left), and his team celebrate winning the 2010 Design Challenge

“As the inventor of the motor car, we wanted to illustrate the vision of the perfect vehicle of the future, which is created and functions in complete symbiosis with nature. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME is a natural technology hybrid, and forms part of our earth’s ecosystem. It grows and thrives like the leaves on a tree,” according to Hubert Lee, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Carlsbad. This year the competition had called for the creation of a vision of a safe and comfortable 2+2 compact car featuring good handling and a first-class design, and weighing only 1,000 lbs (around 454 kg/kerb weight).

Mercedes-Benz symbiosis – a partnership with nature

The Mercedes-Benz BIOME symbiosis vehicle is made from an ultralight material called BioFibre and tips the scales at just 875.5 lbs (around 394 kg). This material is significantly lighter than metal or plastic, yet more robust than steel. BioFibre is grown from proprietary DNA in the Mercedes-Benz nursery, where it collects energy from the sun and stores it in a liquid chemical bond called BioNectar4534.As part of this process, the vehicle is created from two seeds: The interior of theBIOME grows from the DNA in the Mercedes star on the front of the vehicle, while the exterior grows from the star on the rear. To accommodate specific customer requirements, the Mercedes star is genetically engineered in each case, and the vehicle “grows” when the genetic code is combined with the seed capsule. The wheels are grown from four separate seeds.

The Mercedes-Benz BIOME is powered by BioNectar4534, which is stored in the BioFibre material of the chassis, interior, and wheels. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has developed a technology to equip trees with special receptors which can collect the excess solar energy and turn it into BioNectar4534. This creates a direct link with nature’s energy sources and acts as an incentive to cover mobility energy requirements through more trees and at the same time maintain natural resources. Like plants, the Mercedes-Benz symbiosis vehicle also produces oxygen, thereby contributing to improving air quality. At the end of its service life, the Mercedes-Benz BIOME can be fully composted or used as building material. Thanks to the exclusive use of green technologies, the BIOME vehicle thus blends seamlessly into the ecosystem.

Volvo believe they can bring you this very vehicle. During Los Angeles Auto Show a scale model of this car – Volvo Air Motion – will be on display, participating in the Design Challenge Competition.

Tipping the scales at under 1,000lbs, the Volvo Air Motion Concept is designed like a clam shell and sculpted from ultra light carbon fibre. Minimising weight and complexity, while maximising driving enjoyment, is the philosophy behind this vehicle. Thousands fewer components are employed than in a traditional car thanks to the powerful yet simple compressed air motors that replace a heavy internal combustion engine. The motors cool down under load rather than heat up, thus removing the need for heavy cooling systems. An integrated approach to designing the chassis, interior and suspension also contribute significantly.

To compress the air needed for the centrally mounted air tank, Air Replenishment Sites are used. Powered by air turbines floating 1,000ft in the air they harness the power of the wind and convert it to electricity to provide the compression.

Aimed at the driving enthusiast, by a company synonymous with safety and environmental care, the Volvo Air Motion demonstrates the beauty and purity of Scandinavian design and delivers a guilt free, raw driving experience.

A 1/4 scale model will be displayed in the display area of the concourse that connects the South and West Halls at LA Auto Show. It will be on display during all press and public days. Press days Nov. 17-18 Public Days Nov. 19-28. Volvo Air Motion has been developed at Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center (VMCC) that opened in 1986. VMCC is situated in Camarillo, California. VMCC Air Motion Team: Chris Benjamin, Dean Bakker, Steve Goodrich, Bjorn Wessman, Doug Frasher, Dean Shaw and Geza Loczi.

The LA Auto Show Design Challenge

Each year for the past seven years, a topical theme is chosen and the major Southern California automotive design studios are invited to compete in the Design Challenge. For the first time studios from Germany and Japan will join the competition adding an international dimension to the contest. The highly anticipated challenge allows studios to flex their creativity and explore new ideas in automotive design.

The theme this year addresses society’s shift toward minimizing consumption of the earth’s resources. The objective is to envision an efficient, light-weight, four passenger vehicle (not to exceed 1,000 lbs.), that is both comfortable and safe, while delivering satisfactory driving performance without sacrificing the styling consumers demand.

Hydra Design Labs , Southern California’s newest Automotive Design Studio is comprised of Jon Hull, Mike Desmond, Gary Ragle, and Chris Schuttera. Together they have worked on over 25 concept vehicles and over 20 production cars.

Hydra Design Labs’ focus is to provide all design services needed to take the clients project from ‘ideation to fabrication.’ In addition to their experience designing automotive exteriors and interiors, motorcycles, and products, Hydra also offers full CAD services, reverse engineering including laser scanning, prototyping, and manufacturing.

Jon Hull, President and one of the designers of Hydra Design Labs is very optimistic about the new studio saying “We’ve put together a unique studio in terms of talent, an all-star team of designers where each member is strong enough to run a studio by themselves.” According to Hull, this opens up new possibilities in terms of running projects. “Each designer could run an entire project, or collaborating together they could provide a devastating amount of talent.”

Hydra Design Labs takes its name from Lernaean Hydra the mythical creature, and like its namesake is also a multi-headed beast. The designers were hand picked to form a new kind of design studio, each designer has worked on both production programs and concept cars, designing both exteriors and interiors. Individually each designer can stand alone, running an entire project from ideation to manufacturing. But bring the designers together and the full force of the studio can be felt by having all the designers collaborate on one project.

Hydra’s design team has an arsenal of skills ready to attack any project. Their designers cover many different aspects of vehicle design including concept and production cars, custom cars, eco-friendly vehicles, motorcycles, and movie concepts.

Mike Desmond, the former Design Director at West Coast Choppers, not only brings his experience as a professional automotive designer, but his motorcycle design skills as well.

Gary Ragle has worked as a car designer in California, Japan, and Detroit. Gary has designed numerous concept and production vehicles and his ability to distill design to its essence while always bringing something new and fresh to the table is a great strength he brings to the team.

Chris Schuttera has worked for several automotive design houses, and has also designed airplane interiors. Chris’ knowledge of interior design and ability to rapidly develop themes for even the most complex design challenge is unparalleled in the industry.

The design team was put together by Jon Hull who has had over 14 years experience as a professional automotive designer. He has worked on both exteriors and interiors for concept cars and production vehicles and is also a CAD specialist with a background in plastics engineering. “I feel very excited to be leading such a powerful team,” says Hull, “and can’t wait to show the design community what we are capable of.”

“The “look” of a Peugeot is fundamental to the personality of the Marque’s models. It was at the initiative of Paul Bouvot, then Stylistic Director, and Gérard Welter, that the shape of the front headlamps of the 504 would evoke the feline look now characteristic of Peugeots.

“This visual signature is an essential feature of the Peugeot style, as is the dynamism that Gérard Welter gave to each of the models designed while he was in charge. This dynamism found echoes in the 205, marketed with the famous slogan “a manufacturer draws its claws”, and in the most prestigious saloons such as the 607 or the 5 by Peugeot concept car, presented at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show and the forerunner of a forthcoming production car.

“Veritable image creators that fire the enthusiasm of visitors to motor shows, concept cars offer stylists once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to express themselves technically and aesthetically.
By exploring new technological territory (Oxia), introducing new concepts (20coeur), or revealing the lines of a future model ‘5 by Peugeot’, concept cars are never far removed from a future reality.

“Developed at the initiative of Jean-Pierre Ploué and Gilles Vidal, the BB1 and SR1 convey strong messages for the future. The BB1 opens up new avenues in terms of urban mobility, (2.5 m, four seats, zero emissions), emphasising Peugeot’s unique innovative abilities. The SR1 for its part lifts the veil on the Peugeots of tomorrow, with an emblematic and inspiring body shape, the roadster.

“Peugeot has initiated successful styling collaborations that gave rise in the 1930s to superb 302 roadsters and coupés, highly regarded by discerning car lovers. The Peugeot style also drew inspiration from the Turin based coachbuilder Pininfarina. The arrival of the 403 in 1955 marked the beginning of collaboration with Pininfarina. This collaboration proved particularly prolific and gave rise to several of the Marque’s finest designs: the 504 coupé, 306 cabriolet and 406 coupé.

“Concept cars pave the way for future production models. For example the 20coeur, a stylistic blueprint for the future 206, immediately won admirers at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show and gave rise to the 206 CC. In Geneva in 2010, the ‘5 by Peugeot’ concept car with its pure and elegant lines prefigures the Marque’s ambitions in the segment of prestigious large saloons.

“Peugeot’s ability to propose an integral mobility offer with cars, scooters and bicycles is unique in the world. This strength gives Peugeot a head start.
Peugeot is diversifying its response to the challenge of the environment. As well as continuous improvements to the efficiency of naturally aspirated engines, supporting Peugeot’s leadership in low emission vehicles (50 % of cars sold in Europe emit less than 130 g of CO2/km), the Marque is exploring new avenues for the future.”

• The Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever built – 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and a top speed of 202mph (325km/h). It is also the fastest four-seat convertible in the world.
• The Supersports is the extreme Bentley convertible, offering a highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience.
• Muscular styling reflects the Supersports Convertible’s supercar personality with the practicality and elegance of four-seat accommodation.
• The standardisation of pioneering FlexFuel technology across the 2011 Continental model range reaffirms Bentley’s on-going environmental commitment to make all its cars biofuel-compatible by 2012.

The Continental Supersports Convertible further strengthens Bentley’s supercar range, following the introduction of the Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009. The new Supersports Convertible, with the same 630PS (621bhp/463kW) twin-turbocharged W12 engine, is the fastest, most potent drop‑top Bentley has ever built, offering the ultimate Bentley driving experience in the world’s most dramatic convertible.

The inspiration for the ‘Supersports’ name is the 1925 Bentley Supersports, a race-bred version of the iconic Bentley 3-litre, that delivered 85bhp when more ordinary cars were equipped with a modest 15bhp. It was also the first production car to reach 100mph – extreme performance in its day.

The new, muscular four-seat Supersports Convertible is unmistakably Bentley in its design and craftsmanship but its interiorsignifies a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley luxury. Satin-finished carbon fibre,Alcantara^™and ‘Soft Grip’ leather create a unique ambience with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style.

All models in the Continental model range, including the new Supersports Convertible are now capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and E85 bioethanol or any combination of the two, reaffirming Bentley’s ongoing commitment to make all its cars bio-fuel compatible by 2012. Pioneered by the Supersports Coupe, this FlexFuel technology offers a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO₂ emissions on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis, a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions.

To ensure seamless power delivery, the on-board fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen welcomes the new addition to the Bentley range, as well as the standardisation of the FlexFuel W12 engine on all 2011 Continental models:

“The new Supersports Convertible blends thrilling performance and dramatic styling with luxury and practicality in the Bentley open-top tradition. Extreme power combines with pioneering FlexFuel technology, now shared with all Continental models, reflecting Bentley’s ongoing commitment to more environmental motoring.”

THE NEW CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS – AT A GLANCE

The fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever

• 6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 630PS (621bhp/463kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque at 2000-4500 rev/min
• 0 – 60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds)
• 0 -100mph in 9.6 seconds (0-160km/h in 9.5 seconds)
• Top speed of 202mph (325km/h)
• Overall weight saving of 90kg (198lb) versus GTC Speed

A highly focussed, extreme Bentley convertible driving experience

• Revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
• New 40/60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
• Retuned Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar benefit body control, steering response, turn-in and balance
• Increased 50mm rear track improves grip and stability
• Lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer 10kg (22lb) weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling
• 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tyres
• Advanced ESP system fully exploits potential of the most powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
• Standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes provide fade-free braking and contribute a 20kg (44lb) reduction in rotating and unsprung mass from the front axle.

Muscular yet elegant styling with four-seat practicality

• Form follows function: distinctive centre air intake and vertical grilles feed larger volume of air (+ 10%) to turbocharger intercoolers while bonnet vents extract hot air from engine bay
• Subtly curved rear wheel arches with newly tooled side panels accommodate increased rear track of the uprated chassis and provide muscular stance
• Distinctive ‘smoked steel finish’ to all exterior ‘brightware’, including the first automotive application of ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ to stainless steel
• Larger, twin elliptical exhaust tailpipes and rear valance with discreet vertical divider
• Fixed rear bootlid spoiler for improved aerodynamics
• Unique driver-focused, four-seat cabin
• Lightweight, carbon fibre, front sports seats, saving 45kg (99lb) per car
• Alcantara^™, carbon fibre and ‘Soft Grip’ leather provide a new interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship

The standardisation of FlexFuel capability across the 2011 Continental model range reaffirms Bentley’s on-going environmental commitment

• FlexFuel available on all 2011 Continental models, including the new Supersports Convertible, from June 2010 (all markets)
• All Continental models, are now capable of running on petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two
• Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of petrol to E85 biofuel
• A Fuel Quality Sensor detects the blending ratio of the fuel in real time sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU), initiating the correct engine mapping. This ensures all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent
• Offers a reduction in CO₂ emissions of up to 70% (well-to-wheel), a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions

Enhanced choice for all Continental model range customers

• The full 2011 Continental range gets a host of new exterior and interior specification changes
• Six new colours are added to the Bentley palette (Citric, White Satin, Kingfisher, Magenta, Orange Flame and St James Red Pearl)
• Dark Grey Metallic Hood that is available on all Continental convertible including the new Supersports Convertible
• Automatic opening and closing Powerboot is included as standard on the new Continental Flying Spur and GTC models (not Supersports versions)
• A new cost option Premium Pack for the Flying Spur includes veneered picnic tables with vanity mirrors, a Mulliner alloy fuel filler cap and chrome inlay strips to the door waistrails
• Convenience Packs are available for all Continental models and include features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with ‘Follow to Stop’ feature, an iPod^™interface, front seat massage function, telephone handsets, rear-view camera and Valet key

THE CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS CONVERTIBLE – IN DETAIL

The new Continental Supersports Convertible is a car that must be driven to be fully understood. Behind the wheel it is immediately clear that a Supersports Bentley is a ‘fusion of extremes’ – the ultimate in extreme performance, every day practicality and unrivalled hand-crafted luxury.

Bentley’s Supersports programme began as an ‘under the radar’ project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Continental GT Coupé but with more power and torque. The largely experimental project soon crystallised into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. Now the Supersports Convertible has received the same focus and the results are equally dramatic. Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering explains the thinking behind the project:

“The ‘extreme’ Bentley stable now has a new occupant in the form of the Supersports Convertible – a car every bit as purposeful and potent as the Coupé but with the panache of roof-down motoring.”

A highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience

With 630PS (621bhp) and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque from its pioneering FlexFuel engine and new ‘Quickshift’ transmission, the Supersports Convertible is the fastest drop-top Bentley has ever built. It accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and, conditions permitting, can continue onto a top speed of 202mph (325km/h).

The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated and rapid six-speed Quickshift transmission, which more than halves shift times (to just 93 milliseconds) and maximises the new Convertible’s enormous potential. The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.

Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. During transmission upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability.

The extreme performance of the Superports Convertible is matched by precise, agile handling, while retaining class-leading levels of ride comfort and refinement. Developed from the GTC Speed, chassis enhancements include retuning of the electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer front suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar. The Supersports Convertible also shares its ride height with the GTC Speed, sitting 10mm (0.4in) lower at the front and 15mm (0.6in) lower at the rear than the standard GTC.

The front suspension trailing lever features a new design of hydraulic bush, 33 per cent stiffer than those of GTC Speed, for improved steering response while the uprated rear anti-roll bar provides improved body control and turn-in response.

The retuned CDC system provides enhanced control of body movement to strike the optimum balance between agile handling and ride comfort during all driving manoeuvres. Agility is further sharpened by a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system which reduces understeer during hard cornering and allows the experienced driver to modulate the car’s line and balance via precise throttle control.

The 9.5Jx20-inch forged alloy wheels, shared with the Supersports Coupé, offer a weight saving of 10kg (22lb) per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass while the open 10-spoke design offers superior brake cooling. The rear wheels have a 25mm (1 inch) greater offset resulting in a 50mm (2 inches) increase in the rear track, further benefiting handling and stability.

The lightweight wheels are fitted with 275/35 ZR 20 Pirelli Ultra-High Performance tyres, providing excellent steering response. The standard-fit tyre monitoring system allows the driver to select tyres type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on winter tyres.

The Supersports Convertible features an advanced electronic stability programme (ESP) that moderates intervention at low speeds, exploiting the potential of the more powerful engine and enhanced chassis, improving driver interaction and control. The new ESP also provides faster reinstatement of engine torque after intervention, giving the spirited driver greater control. The target slip is increased at greater than 90 per cent throttle to utilise all available longitudinal grip. Corner exit agility is thereby also enhanced for increased driver involvement. Together the chassis, tyre and track changes deliver improved grip, turn-in and agility.

Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment and provide a reduction in rotating and unsprung mass of 20kg (44lb) from the front axle,  benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort. The large diameter (420mm front, 356mm rear) lightweight discs and eight-piston calipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Pedal feel is also improved with shorter travel, high effectiveness and a precise pressure point.

Designing the ‘extreme’ Bentley convertible- where form follows function

The evolution of the Supersports Convertible’s design is very much a case of form following function, with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. Key engineering-led design changes to the Supersports include:

• Revised front air intakes and new bonnet vents to improve airflow and cooling
• Flared rear wings to accommodate wider rear track
• Discreet bootlid spoiler benefitting aerodynamic balance at high speeds

The increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated an additional 10 per cent airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. With extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, Bentley’s designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style, featuring large vertical intake apertures. Twin bonnet vents were added to ensure positive air extraction.

Similarly, all-new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance Convertible. The resultant Supersports Convertible style combines the looks of the graceful Continental GTC with a wide, low and muscular appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Supersports Convertible, in common with its Coupé stablemate, occupies a position within the Bentley portfolio which is all its own, as Raul Pires, Head of Exterior Design, explains.

“The Supersports Convertible and Coupé are the ultimate driver’s Bentleys and that is reflected in unique design cues that provide a bold, sporting look, from whatever angle the cars are admired. Even from 50 metres behind on a dark road, you can just tell it’s a Supersports.”

From the front, the radiator, lower grille and dual bonnet vents are finished in a striking Smoked Steel finish. Derived from an innovative technology normally used to apply a coating to luxury watches and specialised industrial tools, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) is a complex and time-consuming process that involves vaporised metal being deposited onto the surface of, in this case, stainless steel.

Giving a darker, more solid appearance, it is the first use of a PVD finish on stainless steel in the car industry. In addition to the Smoked Steel finishes, a gloss black finish to the headlamp casings and rear lamp clusters gives the Supersports convertible’s distinctive face and muscular rear additional visual impact.

Restyled – and more aerodynamic – door mirrors match the exterior paint choice and the window and door surrounds replace polished stainless steel with a Smoked Steel finish to match the front grille. Eye-catching, black gloss Bentley-branded brake calipers act on the carbon ceramic brakes. Surrounding the brakes are the unique 20-inch, forged alloy wheels with Smoked Steel-finish which are exclusive to Supersports models. Large diameter tailpipe trims round out the car’s purposeful stance when viewed from the rear. Beneath the bonnet Supersports badges grace the cover of the 630PS (621bhp) W12 engine.

The Supersports Convertible has an electrically operated, three-layer fabric hood with advanced acoustic insulation to provide superb levels of refinement and comfort when raised. A choice of eight hood colours are available, including a new Dark Grey Metallic option, which is achieved by weaving a ‘grey’ acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent ‘metallic effect’ fibre in a twill weave construction to create a directional colour effect.

A re-interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship

Inside the Supersports Convertible, the cockpit is a dramatic execution of iconic Bentley design displayed in its full glory every time the roof is lowered. Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design and Styling, describes the approach taken by his interior design team:

“The design team has fully embraced the spirit of Supersports to create a dramatic interpretation of Bentley luxury for the new Convertible where traditional craftsmanship and fine detailing are given a very different interpretation. Leather hides combine with new materials for Bentley such as satin-finished carbon fibre and Alcantara^™ to create a unique ambience with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style.”

Lightweight carbon fibre is featured throughout the cabin, from the unique carbon-weave treadplates with Supersports script in both doorwells to the sculpted lightweight sports front seats, which feature a carbon fibre clamshell back and Diamond-quilted Alcantara^™. Each seat weighs just 21kg and, in a typical example of attention to detail, the visible weave in the carbon fibre has a ‘Bentley-specific’ density to ensure the perfect visual finish.

The Continental Supersports is the first Bentley to offer a combination of soft-grip leather and performance-enhancing Alcantara^™ alongside the leather hide. Alcantara^™ is favoured by racing teams for its ability to provide additional grip under extreme conditions, such as cornering. But it is also sensational to look at, as well as being immensely supportive on the road or track.

The Alcantara^™ applied to the rear compartment, door panels and seat facings is quilted and in the Supersports marks the return of the much smaller ‘diamond’ upholstery pattern from Bentleys of old. To further highlight the car’s sporting nature, the steering wheel and gear lever are trimmed in new ‘Soft Grip’ leather with extra grip for a supercar feel, and drilled alloy sports pedals stand out in the driver’s footwell.

FlexFuel technology introduced on all 2011 Continental models

FlexFuel technology, pioneered on the Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009, is now extended to the complete 2011 Continental range, including the new Supersports Convertible. The W12 6-litre power unit now has the technology to run on petrol, E85 bioethanol or any mix of these two fuels – all from a single tank.

Bioethanol is blended with petrol in a variety of percentages ranging from E10 (10 per cent bioethanol) to the most widely known, E85, a ratio of 85% bioethanol to 15 per cent petrol to ensure cold-start capability.

Bioethanol presents other unique engineering challenges compared with petrol, due to its chemical composition and characteristics. E85 biofuel has a very high octane rating of 105 but a lower energy content that requires a 30 per cent increase in the engine fuel flow rate. This necessitated a complete review of the fuel system to identify and, if required, replace components deemed to be insufficiently resistant to the properties of ethanol.

Increased fuel flow is achieved through a returnless fuel system, twin variable flow fuel pumps and a new closed loop fuel rail design with pressure sensor. For the fuel system all O-rings, seals, gaskets and pipes are new while new valve coatings and hardened valve seat material provide additional lubrication. New spark plugs with a wider heat range allow for slower combustion.

A sensor in the fuel supply system detects the blending ratio in real time and varies the engine mapping to ensure power, torque and emissions remain at the same levels whatever fuel is used.

FlexFuel offers the possibility of up to a 70 per cent reduction in CO₂ net emissions on a ‘well to wheel’ basis, calculated by adding the CO₂ emitted during the extraction and refining process (the ‘well’) with the CO₂ released when the fuel is burnt during motoring (the ‘wheel’).

Biofuels can be sourced from sugar cane or soyabean, or from “2^nd generation” sources such as agricultural waste and forestry residues. As biofuels are not derived from fossil fuels, the CO₂ released during combustion is reabsorbed by plants during the photosynthesis process, thus creating an unbroken energy cycle.

Enhanced choice for all Continental customers

In addition to the transition to all-FlexFuel engines, the Continental range receives a host of new exterior and interior specification enhancements for the 2011 models, which emphasise the unparalleled craftsmanship and materials that are used to create the exquisite interiors for which Bentley is renowned.

Six new colours are added to the Bentley colour palette (Citric, White Satin, Kingfisher, Magenta, Orange Flame and St James Red Pearl) and the Dark Grey Metallic Hood that is available on the new Supersports Convertible is also available on the Continental GTC models.

Traditional Bentley features such as seat piping and stitching options can be applied to the rich leather hides that are used to trim the cabins of every Continental. These include highly intricate fine line, cross and Z-stitching to decorate the seats, door panels and front console.

A new Premium Pack for the four-door Flying Spur is available as a cost option and includes beautiful veneered picnic tables with vanity mirrors, a Mulliner ‘jewelled’ alloy fuel filler cap and chrome inlay strips to the door waistrails. Customers can also choose from lambswool rugs or deep pile carpet mats with leather hide binding to the edges.

Convenience Packs are available for both the Continental GT, Continental GTC, Flying Spur and Flying Spur Speed models. On the GT and GTC models this includes Adaptive Cruise Control with ‘Follow to Stop’ feature, an iPod^™interface linked to the Infotainment system, massage function to the front seats, a front privacy telephone handset, rear-view camera and Valet key. For Flying Spur models, the Convenience Pack also includes an additional rear privacy handset. The massage function for the front seats is already standard on this model.

Finally a new automatically opening and closing closing Powerboot is now standard on the new Continental Flying Spur and GTC models (not on Supersports versions).

After 20 years of big sales figures, the Mazda MX-5 (aka. Miata) is the best-selling two-seat sports car in the world. At Frankfurt, Mazda will present a new take on its affordable roadster with an all-new show car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight version, designed at Mazda’s studio in Frankfurt, Germany. The Superlight takes the lightweight technology that Mazda is famous for to a new level, improving driving performance, handling, fuel economy and CO₂ emissions. This is combined with a radical exterior design requiring no windshield, and sporty chassis settings for pure roadster driving fun.

The new Mazda MX-5 Superlight version will be unveiled at Mazda’s press conference in Hall 3.1, Stand A7, on September15 at 12:45 local time.