After years of development with leading composite suppliers, Bentley has announced a new carbon fibre wheel developed specifically for the Bentayga. The 22-inch carbon wheel, engineered with renowned specialists Bucci Composites, is to be the largest carbon wheel in production in the world and offers a vast range of benefits beyond the initial 6 kg improvement in unsprung mass per wheel.
The new carbon wheel has been subjected to the exceptionally rigorous TUV (Technischer Uberwachungsverei - Technical Inspection Association) standards, and is the first carbon wheel ever produced to pass all tests. The newly developed rim has undergone the most rigorous testing for non-metallic wheels according to the new TUV standards including biaxial stress testing, radial and lateral impact testing for simulating potholes and cobblestones, tyre overpressure, and excessive torque tests exceeding the permitted limits.
The 22-inch carbon wheel, engineered with renowned specialists Bucci Composites, is to be the largest carbon wheel in production in the world
One of the most severe tests of the TUV requirements - the impact test - has shown how the carbon rim is extremely safe in addition to the performance benefits. After a severe impact which would crack or shatter an aluminium wheel, causing the tyre to collapse explosively, the carbon fibre rim allows a slow tyre deflation thanks to the intelligent layering of fibre weaves, allowing the vehicle to come to a controlled, safe stop. For the final sign off stage, the wheel was put through its paces on one of the most famous tracks in the world - the Nurburgring Nordschleife and it passed that test with flying colours.
The new wheel will be available to order from later this year
