Last year, Bentley made headlines at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with its Bentayga SUV, achieving remarkable success. This year, Bentley is set to take on the mountain once again, but this time with the Continental GT, a vehicle that promises to deliver an equally impressive performance.
The 2019 race up the mountain is scheduled for June 30, 2019. Bentley has set an ambitious goal for this year’s event: to capture the production class record with the Continental GT. This luxurious grand tourer is equipped with a formidable W12 engine that produces an astounding 626hp and 900 Nm of torque.
Performance and Engineering
The power of the W12 engine allows the Continental GT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, a remarkable feat for a car of its size and weight. This impressive acceleration is complemented by a sophisticated 48V roll control system, which enhances the vehicle’s handling and stability, particularly on the challenging and winding roads of Pikes Peak.
The Continental GT’s engineering excellence doesn’t stop there. The car features an advanced all-wheel-drive system that ensures optimal traction and control, even in the most demanding driving conditions. This system, combined with the car’s adaptive air suspension, provides a smooth and controlled ride, allowing the driver to maintain confidence and precision throughout the climb.
The Driver: Rhys Millen
Behind the wheel of the Continental GT will be Rhys Millen, a seasoned driver with a wealth of experience in hill climb events. Millen is no stranger to Pikes Peak, having driven the Bentley Bentayga SUV to success in last year’s event. His familiarity with the course and his skill as a driver make him the ideal candidate to pilot the Continental GT in its quest for the production class record.
Millen’s expertise will be crucial in navigating the 12.42-mile course, which features 156 turns and an elevation gain of 4,720 feet. The thin air at the summit, which sits at 14,115 feet above sea level, poses a significant challenge for both the driver and the vehicle. However, Bentley’s meticulous preparation and Millen’s experience are expected to give them a competitive edge.
Historical Context and Significance
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as “The Race to the Clouds,” is one of the oldest and most prestigious motorsport events in the world. First held in 1916, the race has become a proving ground for automotive manufacturers and drivers alike. The event’s unique combination of high altitude, challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions make it a true test of engineering and driving skill.
Bentley’s participation in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb is part of the brand’s broader strategy to showcase its performance capabilities and engineering prowess. By competing in such a demanding event, Bentley aims to demonstrate that its vehicles are not only luxurious and refined but also capable of delivering exceptional performance in the most challenging conditions.
Looking Ahead
As the June 30 race date approaches, anticipation is building for Bentley’s attempt to set a new production class record with the Continental GT. The combination of the car’s powerful W12 engine, advanced handling systems, and the skill of driver Rhys Millen make for a formidable package. Success at Pikes Peak would not only be a significant achievement for Bentley but also a testament to the capabilities of the Continental GT.
In conclusion, Bentley’s return to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with the Continental GT is a bold and exciting move. With a powerful engine, advanced engineering, and an experienced driver, Bentley is well-positioned to make a strong showing at this year’s event. Fans of the brand and motorsport enthusiasts alike will be eagerly watching to see if Bentley can achieve its goal of setting a new production class record.
via Bentley
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