The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, often referred to as “The Race to the Clouds,” was recently run, and Bentley was among the numerous entries for this iconic race. This event, which has been held annually since 1916, is one of the most challenging and prestigious hill climbs in the world. At the 2021 running of the hill, weather played a significant factor as it’s been unusually cool in Colorado even though summer is in full swing. Pike’s Peak, standing at over 14,000 feet, means that the weather on the mountain can be vastly different from the weather at the base, adding an extra layer of complexity to the race.
Weather Challenges and Course Adjustments
Poor weather at higher altitudes meant the race course was shortened, with the race finishing at 12,780 feet rather than the full 14,115 feet. This decision was made to ensure the safety of the drivers and their teams, as the conditions near the summit were treacherous. Snow and ice near the mountain’s summit made it impossible for the racing cars to climb the full mountain, which is a rare but not unheard-of occurrence in the history of the event. Unfortunately, the shortened event made record-breaking impossible, as the full course is required for any official records.
Despite these challenges, Bentley has confirmed that its Continental GT3 Pikes Peak racing car was the fastest car running on sustainable fuel at the event. This is a significant achievement, as it highlights Bentley’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in motorsports. The use of sustainable fuel is part of Bentley’s broader strategy to become a leader in environmentally friendly automotive technology.
Bentley’s Performance and Achievements
The racecar finished second overall in its Time Attack I class and fourth overall for the entire event. This is an impressive result, considering the challenging conditions and the competition. The car did suffer a late engine issue but was able to cross the finish line with a time of 6:36.281. This time is a testament to the skill of the driver and the engineering prowess of the Bentley team.
The Continental GT3 Pikes Peak is a specially modified version of Bentley’s Continental GT3 race car. It features a range of enhancements designed to optimize performance at high altitudes, where the air is thinner, and engines can struggle to produce power. These modifications include a more powerful engine, improved aerodynamics, and a lightweight construction. The car’s performance at Pikes Peak demonstrates the effectiveness of these enhancements and Bentley’s ability to compete at the highest levels of motorsport.
In addition to its performance on the track, the Continental GT3 Pikes Peak also showcases Bentley’s commitment to sustainability. The car runs on a biofuel blend, which significantly reduces its carbon footprint compared to traditional racing fuels. This is part of Bentley’s broader strategy to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable practices in the automotive industry.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is a unique and challenging event that tests the limits of both drivers and their machines. The combination of high altitude, unpredictable weather, and a demanding course makes it one of the most difficult races in the world. Bentley’s success at this year’s event is a testament to the skill and dedication of its team, as well as the performance and reliability of its cars.
The 2021 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was a memorable event, marked by challenging weather conditions and impressive performances. Bentley’s Continental GT3 Pikes Peak racing car stood out as the fastest car running on sustainable fuel, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Despite the shortened course and late engine issues, the car finished second in its class and fourth overall, demonstrating Bentley’s ability to compete at the highest levels of motorsport. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, events like Pikes Peak will remain a crucial testing ground for new technologies and a showcase for the skill and determination of the world’s best drivers and engineers.
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