The Bacalar spearheads a return to coachbuilding by Bentley Mulliner and features an enhanced version of Bentley’s peerless 6.0-litre W12 TSI engine, the most advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world.

Since the first introduction of the twin-turbocharger W12 in 2003, the engine’s refinement has seen an increase of up to 27 percent in power, 38 percent in torque and a reduction of 38 percent in emissions.

This has been realised through the evolution and optimisation of the crankcase, improvements in the oil and cooling systems, twin-scroll turbocharging technology and more effective injection and combustion processes.

Sources from Bentley told this correspondent that these improvements resulted from several initiatives taken by the company. It may be recalled that the latest generation of W12 was launched in the Bentayga in 2016. “A thoroughly reworked engine included a crankcase 30 percent stronger than its predecessor, while the cylinder surfaces were coated to reduce friction and improve corrosion resistance. A low-alloy steel coating is applied to the bores using an Atmospheric Plasma Spray (APS) process. Improvements were also made to the cooling system, with the engine featuring three separate coolant circuits. The first is designed to bring the cylinder heads up to optimum operating temperature as quickly as possible for best engine performance and low emissions. The second cool the engine block and oil system, while the third handles the turbochargers’ thermal load. Each system has a dedicated water pump, allowing optimised individual control,” sources said.

Twin-scroll Turbocharging

Twin-scroll turbochargers minimise turbo response time and provide a more efficient exhaust package. The exhaust assemblies for the three front and three rear cylinders are separate from one another, which feed the twin-scroll impellers. The turbocharger housing is welded directly to the exhaust manifolds and feature integrated speed sensors, allowing the engine to monitor turbo performance for maximum efficiency.

Effective Injection

The W12 combines high-pressure direct fuel injection (200 bar injection pressure) with low-pressure port injection (six bar). The combination of these two systems maximises refinement, lowers particulate emissions and optimises power and torque delivery.

Interestingly, each W12 engine is hand-built over 6.5 hours by a team of 45 craftspeople before undertaking a highly sophisticated test regime of over an hour via three specialist diagnostic machines during the engines assemble.

According to the sources, there were three specialist diagnostic machines with sophisticated test regime.

Leak Test

The leakage test is conducted by pressurising each of the systems for fuel, oil and water individually. The different cavities are pressurised to values between 0.2 – 5.0 bar respectively and then measured whilst the pressure decays over time. The reduction in pressure versus time represents the quality of the sealing of the engine assembly. If the pressure drops faster than expected, a leak is indicated. A special fluid is sprayed on to the exterior of the engine to pin-point any leakage paths.

Cold Test

The engine is loaded on to a testbed plate, and connections are made to the engine loom and all engine systems, whilst a large electric motor couples to the engine via the crankshaft. “Motoring” the engine via the crankshaft allows the testbed to collect data from a suite of sensors. The facility measures 600 individual properties and characteristics of the engine during a 15-minute cycle. Due to the low running speed of 120 RPM for the test, finer details and any inconsistencies can be identified thanks to a sample rate that highlights even the briefest of anomalies that would be invisible if the engine was firing or running at speed. This fine detail analysis is also valuable for confirming the precise timing of the engine. Using positioning information from sensors on the crankshaft, crankcase and camshafts, and cylinder compression values, the Cold Test can confirm the engine timing is accurate and, therefore, achieve the best possible combustion cycle.

Hot Test

When the engine arrives for hot testing, a UV dye is added to the engine to help identify any leaks. The coolant and fuel system are pressurised with air and nitrogen, respectively, for a final check before introducing the necessary fluids ready for testing. The engine is cranked to build oil pressure before the ignition system is energised and then left to idle whilst the engine test technician listens for any refinement issues and checks for leaks with a UV lamp. Sources said that each W12 is then tested for a minimum of 21.5 minutes and runs up to 3,800 rpm with a maximum load of 300 Nm. One in every one hundred engines receives a full eight-hour power test, achieving 6,000 RPM, and must achieve 900Nm.

The three tests that the Bacalar engine has already been put through are part of Bentley’s exceptional quality control processes. These testing procedures provide feedback on the quality of each engine and provide multiple checkpoints to catalogue the exact behaviour of each engine from the moment of manufacture. Since the installation of the three testbeds in 2002, over 100,000 W12 engines have been handcrafted in Crewe and passed through the test facility.

Technology Advancements

Bentley’s legendary 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12, created in 2002, has evolved into the latest iteration of the W12 engine used across today’s current model range. The unique W-configuration means that the engine is 24 percent shorter than an equivalent V12, benefitting packaging and maximising usable cabin space.

The latest generation of W12 was launched in the Bentayga in 2016. A thoroughly reworked engine included a crankcase 30 percent stronger than its predecessor, while the cylinder surfaces were coated to reduce friction and improve corrosion resistance. A low-alloy steel coating is applied to the bores using an Atmospheric Plasma Spray (APS) process.

The W12 combines high-pressure direct fuel injection (200 bar injection pressure) with low-pressure port injection (six bar). The combination of these two systems maximises refinement, lowers particulate emissions and optimises power and torque delivery.

Twin-scroll turbochargers minimise turbo response time and provide a more efficient exhaust package. The exhaust assemblies for the three front and three rear cylinders are separate from one another, which then feed the twin-scroll impellers. The turbocharger housing is welded directly to the exhaust manifolds and feature integrated speed sensors, allowing the engine to monitor turbo performance for maximum efficiency.

Bentley’s variable displacement system shuts down half of the engine under defined conditions. Intake and exhaust valves, fuel injection and ignition are all shut down on defined cylinders, with the engine running as a six-cylinder for improved efficiency. The system will run in this mode in gears three to eight, below 3,000 rpm and up to 300 Nm torque output.

The first Bacalar engine followed the same build process in Bentley’s centre of excellence for W12 engines, ensuring the same level of quality and expertise before final testing, sources added. (MT)

Sustainable, Recyclable Electric Motors

Bentley Motors has announced a three-year research study that aims to revolutionise the sustainability of electric motors. Supporting Bentley’s commitment to offering only hybrid or electric vehicles by 2026, the result could see recycled rare-earth magnets used in selected ancillary motors for the very first time.

The study, titled RaRE (Rare-earth Recycling for E-machines), intends to build on work completed at the University of Birmingham in devising a method of extracting magnets from waste electronics. The project will also scale up this process and repurpose the extracted magnetic material into new recyclable magnets for use within bespoke ancillary motors.

Adding to the sustainability benefits that RaRE will provide, the bespoke motors created through this method promise to minimise complexity through manufacture while supporting the development of the UK supply chain for both mass production and low volume components.

Dr Matthias Rabe, Member of the Board for Engineering, Bentley Motors, said, “As we accelerate our journey to electrification, offering only hybrid or electric vehicles by 2026, and full electric by 2030, it is important that we focus on every aspect of vehicle sustainability, including sustainable methods of sourcing materials and components. RaRE promises a step-change in electrical recyclability, providing a source of truly bespoke, low voltage motors for a number of different applications, and we are confident the results will provide a basis for fully sustainable electric drives.”

This study will run in parallel to Bentley’s OCTOPUS research programme, which aims to deliver a breakthrough in e-axle electric powertrains, utilising a fully integrated, free from rare-earth magnet e-axle that supports electric vehicle architectures.

As with OCTOPUS, RaRE is an OZEV funded project delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, which brings together the following partners with distinct roles and responsibilities. Bentley Motors will lead specification setting and test protocol development and support the design and manufacturing activities, while Hypromag will scale up the recycling processes developed at the University of Birmingham and convert the extracted powders to sintered magnets with properties designed around those required for the auxiliary motors. On its part, Unipart Powertrain Applications Ltd will lead the development of manufacturing scale-up routes to ensure facilities and processes defined are suitable for volume automotive manufacture.

Advanced Electric Machines Research Ltd will lead the motors’ design and development, while Intelligent Lifecycle Solutions Ltd will pre-process computer hard disk drives to remove the rare earth magnet containing components from the waste, which will be shipped to Hypromag for removal of the rare earth magnets. The University of Birmingham will provide cast alloys, which will be fed into Hypromag to blend with secondary materials to produce sintered magnets. (MT)

Mumbai-based automotive major Mahindra Group has rejigged its top leadership team to further strengthen the company’s market position.

The company has announced that Hemant Sikka, currently President of Farm Equipment Sector will take over the role of MD & CEO of Mahindra Logistics. He will succeed Ram Swaminathan who has stepped down to pursue other professional interests.

Furthermore, Veejay Nakra, currently President Automotive Division, has been appointed the President for Farm Equipment Business (FEB), which is among Mahindra’s large and profitable businesses with a ROCE of over 60 percent. The company sees huge opportunity to further grow the business and expand globally. He will continue to report to Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director & CEO, Auto & Farm Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra .

In addition, R Velusamy, currently, President Automotive Technology and Product Development, will take on the role of President of the Automotive Business (AB). He will be tasked to prepare the Automotive Business with technology innovation and lead opportunities for growth in domestic as well as global markets.

Mahindra has announced that it will now integrate the SUV and LCV (less than 3.5 tonne) business under one leadership to make the business more agile and collaborative, from engineering products to faster time to market. He will also report to Jejurikar.

Dr Anish Shah, Group CEO & Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “These leadership changes ensure that we have strong, proven leaders at the helm of our key businesses. Their experience will enable us to drive significant growth and create greater value for our customers and shareholders. We thank Ram for his contributions to the company, and wish Hemant, Veejay, and Velu the very best for the journey ahead.”

Hyundai Motor India, a leading manufacturer of passenger vehicles in the country, has has announced that every second vehicle it sold in India came with a sunroof.

The company shared that in FY2025, 53.2 percent of the Hyundai vehicles sold in the country was equipped with sunroof, what’s more the share of SUVs also increased to 68.5 percent from the earlier 63.2 percent a year ago.

At present, sunroof is offered as an optional feature in 12 out of 14 models in the Hyundai Motor India portfolio, which includes the Exter, Venue, Creta, Alcazar, Tucson Verna, Aura, Grand i10 NIOS, i20 and the Ioniq 5.

On the other hand, the demand for ADAS-equipped models grew to 14.3 percent from 6.7 percent a year ago.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “FY2024-25 has been a landmark year for Hyundai Motor India. The fact that two out of every third vehicle sold by us in India was an SUV is a testament to our deep understanding of Indian customers and our commitment to delivering innovation, safety and style. The doubling of ADAS variant contribution and growing popularity of sunroof-equipped models reflects the rising aspirations of our customers and their readiness to embrace global technologies. We shall continue to march forward with a focus on customer delight, offering products that are future-ready, feature-rich, and engineered for India.”

German luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz India has expanded its footprint in the southern market with the inauguration of three new state-of-the-art facilities across Bengaluru and Hyderabad, reinforcing its customer-centric ‘Go to Customer’ strategy.

In Bengaluru, the luxury carmaker opened a sprawling 2S (Sales & Service) facility with a Delivery Bay by long-standing partner Sundaram Motors on International Airport Road. The 47,000 sqft facility, built to Mercedes-Benz’s global MAR20X luxury retail standards, features 10 dedicated service bays, a Premium Aero Hub and a Mercedes Cafe. It also offers fast EV charging and quick repair zones, enhancing convenience and sustainability.

Hyderabad saw the addition of two new 2S facilities. Mahavir Motors inaugurated a 39,000 sqft outlet in a high-net-worth residential area near the city’s growing IT corridor. The facility, equipped with 19 service bays, combines digital interfaces with personalised service zones and eco-friendly features.

Landmark Cars also launched a new 12,000 sqft service centre in Hyderabad with six service bays. The facility offers specialised vehicle servicing, body paint work and Premier Express service for priority customers.

These openings mark a significant investment in customer engagement and service infrastructure in key southern metros, aligning with rising aspirations and demand for luxury vehicles in India.

Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We are delighted to inaugurate 3 state-of-the-art luxury facilities in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, reaffirming our commitment to delivering the best customer experience and deepening our presence in these key markets. These modern facilities reflect Mercedes-Benz’s vision of offering a world-class luxury retail experience, backed by digital innovation, modern luxury design and personalised customer consultation. We continue to invest in our luxury retail experience, with sharp focus on elevating customer experiences by creating new standards in luxury automotive retail. We are creating desire for the brand not only in emerging markets, but also in key metropolises like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, where Mercedes-Benz has a strong brand presence.”

Czech automaker Skoda Auto India, which completes its silver jubilee in India, has launched its all-new Kodiaq premium SUV at prices starting INR 4.68 million.

Powered by a 2.0 TSI engine, the Kodiaq produces 150kW and 320Nm of torque, which is distributed to both axles through a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic. Based on the MQB37 platform, the Kodiaq SUV is available in the Sportline and Selection L&K in seven-seat configurations. The company shared that the SUV is being assembled in India at the brand’s facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. The Kodiaq comes with a claimed fuel efficiency of 14.86 kmpl by ARAI.

The all-new Skoda Kodiaq grows 59mm longer than its predecessor, now measuring 4,758mm in length, 1,864mm in width and 1,679mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,791mm. Its ground clearance increases to 155mm when fully laden. It continues to retain its three-row layout yet manages to offer 281 litres of cargo space with all seats upright, 786 litres with the third row folded, and 1,976 litres with both rear rows stowed. Externally, the SUV boasts a bold redesign, featuring LED Beam Crystallinium headlamps with a Welcome Effect and a front grille integrated with a horizontal light strip.

A red strip connecting the tail lamps accentuates its width, and six exterior colour options are available, including Moon White and Velvet Red, with exclusive Bronx Gold for the L&K and Steel Grey for the Sportline.

On the inside, the Kodiaq elevates luxury with two distinct themes: a sporty all-black interior for the Sportline and premium Cognac leather upholstery for the L&K trim. A 32.77-cm infotainment system and Smart Dials with tactile controls streamline access to HVAC, audio and drive modes. Ergonomic upgrades include a steering wheel-mounted gear selector and a rear tablet holder. The Ergo front seats feature advanced pneumatic massage, while an acoustic package and noise-reducing windows ensure a tranquil cabin.

The Kodiaq is equipped with nine airbags, complemented by a sliding panoramic sunroof and a 725W Canton sound system with 13 speakers.

Skoda Auto India is also offering a standard warranty of five-year/125,000km (whichever earlier), along with a 10-year complimentary Road-Side Assistance on offer.

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “In March, we recorded our biggest ever monthly sales in India, driven by the Kylaq launch, and supported by the Kushaq and Slavia. This is one of many new records we aim to set this year. In line with our product offensive strategy, the launch of the all-new Kodiaq showcases the other end of our product spectrum with Škoda’s luxury and technology prowess. The Kodiaq has now grown to be an important legacy name for us like the Octavia and Superb. The Kodiaq offers the ultimate luxury and handling for city roads and also packs in versatile all-terrain capabilities.”