CONTINENTAL GT TO SUMMIT PIKES PEAK
CONTINENTAL GT TO SUMMIT PIKES PEAK
- Bentley returns to legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
- W12-powered Continental GT seeks production car record
- Two-time champion Rhys Millen returns to Bentley
- Follows successful securing of Production SUV record in 2018
(Crewe, 25 March 2019) Bentley Motors is set to return to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on 30th June 2019, aiming to capture the production car record with the Continental GT.
Powered by the world’s most advanced 12-cylinder engine, the Continental GT will aim to set an outright record as it summits the 12.42-mile, 156-corner course in Colorado Springs, USA.
Developing 626 bhp and 900 Nm of torque, the new Continental GT’s hand built W12 engine effortlessly accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, complimented by an advanced 48-volt roll control system for extraordinary dynamic ability. Twin-scroll turbochargers minimising turbo response time coupled with high and low pressure direct fuel injection optimise power and torque delivery.
Joining forces with Bentley, former “King of the Mountain” Rhys Millen’s unrivalled experience and ability at Pikes Peak will push the Continental GT to the limit at one of the world’s most challenging motorsport events.
Rhys commented: “When I learned of Bentley’s plans to compete at Pikes Peak for a second time, the decision to work together again was an easy one. The Continental GT and its W12 provide us with the perfect platform to begin chasing a new record, and I am looking forward to once again being part of the Bentley Motorsport team that will prepare the car over the coming months.”
Following Millen’s record-setting run in the Bentley Bentayga at Pikes Peak in 2018, Bentley’s motorsport department - based at the company’s headquarters in Crewe, England - has already begun preparing the new Continental GT for the 2019 record attempt.
Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, Brian Gush, comments:
“Bentley’s success last year along with the experience we gained will prove to be instrumental in preparing for our return to the mountain. The challenge to set the outright record for production cars is not one we underestimate, but we are confident in the combination of our W12 engine, the dynamic ability of the new Continental GT and the outstanding skill of Rhys Millen.”
Further details about the project will be announced in due course. More information about the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb can be found at http://ppihc.org/fans/.
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