Bentley produces its last handcrafted 6.75L V8 engine

MANILA: Bentley’s iconic L-Series engine is no more. That’s right, the final, handcrafted 6.75L V8 rolled off production in Crewe, England last June 1.

Manufactured in the same way for 61 years, 36,000 units of this massive engine was made and the last one was put together by a team composed of only seven people who have 105 years of experience between them.

The last L-Series engine will go into the 30^thand last commissioned Bentley Mulsanne 6.75 Edition by Mulliner. To commemorate the occasion, this model will, of course, sport special badging, blueprint graphics, and even ventilation “organ stops” featuring a miniaturized version of the oil cap of the L-Series engine.

Each 6.75L V8 engine was made by hand and took 15 hours to build. Key internal components are individually chosen to form a matching, balanced set so that the engine runs smoothly. Once completed, and after thorough testing, the engine is signed off by one of Bentley’s engine specialists. The signature is affixed to a plate in the front of the engine.

With the Mulsanne bowing out of production once the 30 6.75 Edition cars are built, the all-new Flying Spur will become Bentley’s flagship model. The Flying Spur, set to receive a hybrid powertrain in 2023, symbolizes Bentley’s commitment to change and its journey to define the future of sustainable luxury mobility. The world’s most sought-after luxury car brand has already taken its first step on the road towards electrification with the launch of the Bentayga Hybrid—the luxury SUV sector’s first, true plug-in hybrid and the most efficient Bentley ever.

“Our venerable 6.75-liter V8 has powered the flagship Bentley for more than six decades, and so has earned its retirement. Now, we look forward to the future of Bentley, powered by our exceptional W12, sporting 4.0-litre V8 and, of course, our efficient V6 Hybrid—the start of our journey toward electrification,” said Bentley’s Member of the Board for Manufacturing, Peter Bosch.

Photos from Bentley

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