Bentley will offer a plug-in hybrid version in 90% of its model range by 2018 according to current Bentley chief executive Dr Wolfgang Schreiber.

Schreiber spoke at the Beijing Motor Show at the launch of the Mulsanne Hybrid Concept and said plug-in hybrids are the right choice for the future of the brand.

The first production Bentley to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain will be its new SUV model which will go on sale next year.

The SUV was originally shown off as a concept with the EXP 9F but designers were sent back to the drawing board following a negative reception.

Schreiber said: “ is part of Bentley’s future to offer higher efficiency with no compromise in luxury.

“It will reaffirm Bentley’s position as the world’s leading manufacturer of high-luxury vehicles.”

Bentley claims the hybrid system on the Mulsanne concept emits 75% less CO2 than a non-hybrid version, and adds 25% more power.

Schreiber will be leaving Bentley for a "leading role within the VW Group" this summer. He will be replaced by Wolfgang Durheimer who will lead the brand's introduction of the new SUV model next year.