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Bentley Advocates for Higher Weight Limits Amid EU Regulations
The 2023 Bentley Bentayga EWB (Extended Wheelbase) weighs in at 5,542 pounds, nearing the heavy end of the scale. With a total vehicle mass of 7,165 pounds (3,250 kg)—1,000 pounds more than the curb weight of the new Ford F-150 Lightning—Bentley is close to exceeding regulations imposed by the European Union. In response, the British luxury car manufacturer is actively seeking adjustments to these limits.
To put this weight in perspective, the Bentayga’s total weight is still under a ton lighter than the Hummer EV, which has a battery alone that tips the scales at nearly 3,000 pounds. While this weight is not problematic in the U.S., in Europe, the Bentley’s mass approaches the legal ceiling for a standard driver’s license, set at 7,716 pounds (3,500 kg). Bentley aims to ensure that purchasers of its elongated Bentayga do not need a commercial truck license to drive.
In the United States, the regulations are less stringent due to broader roadways. A Class C license, typically for cars, pickups, and SUVs, allows for operation of vehicles weighing up to 26,000 pounds when towing a farm trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) not exceeding 20,000 pounds, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Chris Cole, Bentley’s product line director, disclosed to carsales.com during a preview of the Bentayga that the Volkswagen Group is using its influence to advocate for increased weight limits within the EU.
"Currently, the total vehicle weight is approaching the licensing cap across Europe," Cole remarked. "We are engaged in ongoing discussions with certification authorities as the landscape evolves."
Cole emphasized that existing regulations were intended to encourage manufacturers to create lighter vehicles for improved fuel efficiency, a notion that might not apply to electric models. However, this argument does little to alleviate the impact on road maintenance and wear.
It remains uncertain whether the EU will consider changes to its weight regulations, a process that often moves at a sluggish pace. In the meantime, Bentayga EWB owners in Europe may need to travel light on family excursions to stay compliant.
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