Mulliner equips Bentley's ultra-luxurious Bentayga SUV with large 22-inch carbon fiber wheels. They are the biggest production carbon-fiber wheels ever produced for a vehicle, according to Bentley, and will be available only for the Bentayga.
The wheels weren't merely thrown together on the spur of the moment, though. The design and testing procedure took five years to complete while working with Bucci Composites. TÜV testing and certification were performed on the wheels, which is significant because attaching 22-inch carbon-fiber wheels to a 6,000-pound monster may be nerve-racking.
Bentley further claims that the wheels are made with a proprietary technique that incorporates, among other things, a particular stacking of weaves that helps minimize catastrophic tire blowouts in extreme collisions.
TÜV testing included everything from overinflated tires to potholes and cobblestones. Bentley explicitly cites Nürburgring test sessions.
The benefits of carbon fiber wheels this size include a 6kg weight savings per wheel, a more solid steering platform, improved braking performance, and reduced tire wear.
There is no indication of pricing, which is not surprising. In late 2021, they will be available for purchase through Mulliner.