Bentley reveals hybrid-powered luxury car

Based on Bentley’s £225,000 flagship Mulsanne model, the hybrid system uses both petrol and electric power and can be plugged into the mains to recharge it. The manufacturer claims the system increases the car’s power output by a quarter and cuts emissions by 70pc, as well as allowing the vehicle to drive 30 miles entirely on electric power.

Ricky Tay, Bentley’s China managing director, said: “China has always been a key market for Bentley and, after a remarkable year in 2013, we have seen an impressive start to 2014 with a 19pc increase in sales in the first quarter. Our customer base is growing and we are expanding our dealer network to offer our ultra luxury products and a unique brand experience throughout the region.”

China’s growing middle classes mean the country is vital market to global car companies. Last year, car sales in the country rose 16pc to 18m, making it the world’s biggest market.

Also highlighting their commitment to China at the show were other automotive industry heavyweights such as Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). The company, owned by India’s Tata, will begin making SUVs in China by the end of the year, said JLR China president Bob Grace, adding that local production would reduce prices by about 15pc.

Volvo Cars, which is owned by Hangzhou-based Geely, said it expects China to overtake the US to become its biggest market this year, while Volkswagen said it expects Chinese sales to accelerate by 10pc or more this year to more than 3.5m.

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