Bentley bounced back to pre-recession levels of demand during 2011, with strong growth in all major markets.

Globally, sales were up 37% to 7003 for the calendar year with sales accelerating as the year progressed. December sales were 1059 (up 69% on the same month in 2010), the best month since Bentley’s pre-recession record of 2007 and the second best month ever.

The US continues to be Bentley’s number one market with 2021 cars sold in 2011, an increase of 32%. For the first time ever, however, China took second spot with sales for the region virtually doubling to 1839 and surpassing the previous year’s record before the end of July. This achievement is even more remarkable considering Bentley has been present in Mainland China for less than ten years.

Other regions have also performed very well. Continental European sales rebounded to 1187 (an increase of 53%) led by strong demand in Germany where sales have increased by a remarkable 88%. The UK proved to be extremely challenging over the past months, but still saw an increase of over 5% with 1031 cars sold. Indeed, all major markets are up including the Middle East despite the political instability that has beset certain markets.

Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer, said, “It has been a tremendously good year for Bentley. The dramatic sales growth reflects a global strength to the Brand and a recognition of the quality, craftsmanship and engineering excellence of our cars. It is also testament to the work of the entire Bentley Team whose passion and daily commitment has delivered this outstanding result. It has been particularly pleasing to see renewed interest in Bentley in established as well as and new and emerging markets, all of which is contributing to a positive financial result for 2011.

“We want that success to continue and, with a new Continental V8 set to attract new customers in 2012, have ambitious but realistic plans which reflect global economic conditions as much as our new product line up.”

The strong performance was the result of strong demand across the range, with the new Continental GT unsurprisingly proving the most popular Bentley with 2404 GTs delivered – over a third of Bentley’s total sales volume. Sales were boosted significantly in December with the first deliveries of the new soft-top Continental GTC, a new model which has received fantastic reviews from media and customers alike.

Together with the Bentley Mulsanne, which continues to maintain a healthy order bank constantly replenished as more customers get to drive the flagship Bentley, sales growth is expected to continue unabated during 2012.

Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in on 9th January 2012.

The new 4.0L, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.

Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-100km/h sprint and a top speed of over 290km/h.

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 800km on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.

The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40% improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.

The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.

The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0L V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.

The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.

At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s.

Both models are specified with 20” alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21” six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.

Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.

The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0L, 12-cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631bhp.

Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.

Inspired by Juha Kankkunen’s world-record breaking exploits on the ice, Bentley and Breitling have once again combined British chic and Swiss tradition to create a limited edition chronograph to mark this grand achievement.

Bentley’s most potent and radically-styled convertible ever – the 202mph (325km/h) Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ convertible – is a celebration of the world ice speed record set by Finland’s four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen in a Bentley Continental Supersports convertible.

The ISR Supersports convertible – just 100 cars will be produced – provides the inspiration for the new timepiece. The Supersports Ice Speed Record commemorative watch is the perfect embodiment of the two companies’ shared passion for prestige and performance. This remarkable combination of handcrafted technology and striking aesthetics is also restricted to 100 and is only available without charge to those who buy the car.

Driving the all-wheel drive, biofuel-powered 6-litre, 12-cylinder Continental Supersports convertible on the perilous frozen Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland, Kankkunen achieved a speed of 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) eclipsing his own ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the Continental GT.

Look closer, and you’ll see the watch shares many of the same design cues as the limited edition extreme Bentley. The distinctive red detailing. The carbon fibre fascia with dashboard-style dial. The classically knurled finish on the control buttons. Even the carbon fibre presentation box. All combine to create a unique and original timepiece like no other.

Wolfgang Duerheimer, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, said:
“Juha Kankkunen’s drive was a remarkable achievement and worthy of a very special car. The Continental Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record’ is a true driver’s car that captures that unique Bentley spirit. It offers extreme performance, agility and an extrovert personality, while retaining the refinement, handcrafted luxury and comfort our customers expect.”

It is no coincidence that both watch and car are personalised with the same engraved number, upholding the renowned and time-honoured tradition of genuine exclusivity of both Breitling and Bentley. Highly sought. Pure Bentley and Breitling through and through.

Limited edition Supersports Ice Speed Record chronograph specification

MOVEMENT:
• Breitling Calibre 27B
• Officially chronometer-certified by the COSC
• Self-winding
• High-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour)
• 38 jewels
• 1/4th of a second chronograph
• Central 60-minute totaliser
• Combined 60-minute and 12-hour totaliser
• Calendar

CASE:
• Titanium case with special engraving on reverse
• Dial with carbon fibre weave
• Water resistant to 100m
• Bidirectional rotating pinion bezel with variable tachometer (circular slide rule)
• Cambered sapphire crystal face, glare proofed on both sides
• Screw-locked crown
• Diameter: 49mm

STRAP:
• Highly durable rubber

PRESENTATION BOX:
• Premium carbon fibre presentation box with a unique identification plaque

Bentley has received confirmation of a conditional grant allocation of £3 million from the Department for Business Regional Growth Fund (RGF).

This is the second time this year Bentley has been successful with the Government’s RGF, having received £1.68m in the first round to create additional manufacturing jobs and training. The new grant funding will help support the development of a new powertrain application which will enable Bentley to exploit new export markets. It will safeguard over 200 jobs and also create a small number of additional positions within the Company’s 900-strong engineering department.

Bentley is one of a handful of automotive companies to undertake all its activities on one site. From design and engineering to production, sales and customer service, all functions are located at the Company’s historic Crewe site in Cheshire. The third biggest investor in R&D of all the automotive companies operating in the UK, Bentley is also in the top 20 of all companies investing in R&D in the UK.

Speaking about the grant, Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer, said: ”This is a real boost for Bentley which has one of the most highly skilled automotive workforces in the country and, uniquely, has now been awarded two RGF grants. It shows that the Government recognises the importance of Bentley and the contribution we make to high value manufacturing and UK exports.”

“Our customers expect the very best in terms of exclusivity, technology, quality and engineering excellence which requires significant ongoing investment in R&D. This is why we retain such a strong engineering capability exclusively for Bentley here in the UK. This grant will help safeguard those operations as we look to develop new powertrains which appeal to new markets and new customers.”

Bentley exports over 80% of its production and, despite the economic uncertainties, recent investment in new models is already paying dividends as growth continues in all major markets. Traditional markets such as the US and Europe are up by around a third but new markets such as China continue to break records. By the end of September, Bentley sales in China had exceeded 1,000 units for the first time as the country cements its position as the second biggest global market for Bentley and one that is increasing by over 80% a year.

The RGF grant will help Bentley develop new powertrains for future markets. Traditionally drawn towards four-door models such as the Mulsanne and the Continental Flying Spur, customers in emerging markets such as China are increasingly showing interest in the new two-door Continental GT and GTC. Although this is delivering significant sales growth, for that to continue – and the long term future of the Company be assured – Bentley has to look at new powertrains which anticipate changing demand.

This research and development will take place at the Bentley’s Crewe plant, and the Company plans to increase its graduate and apprentice intake next year in anticipation of continuing global growth.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “We need to be doing all we can to enable businesses and organisations to create much needed jobs and inject private investment into the economy. We have announced today that a further 162 projects will benefit from the fund, and expect to deliver a huge number of jobs across their businesses and in the supply chain.

“This is a very significant boost to local communities, and the Regional Growth Fund will help businesses like Bentley drive local growth.”

Previewed about a month ago, the Linley edition Continental Flying Spur has now been officially launched at the Jack Barclay dealership in London’s Berkeley Square.

The collaboration between Bentley with British design company, Linley for a limited edition of 10 Continental Flying Spurs will only be available in what is now Bentley’s biggest market in the world, China.

The 10 Chinese customers who will opt for a Linley edition CFS will get a special rosewood veneers covering the fascia, console, waistrail and roof console of the sedan interior.

The Linley Helix motif is also engraved on the tread plates and throughout the interior in places like the rhodium-plated plaque on the glove box.

In addition, the rear console is fitted with a Linley-designed box containing a humidor, a cigar cutter and an ashtray. There is also a built-in fridge behind the armrest and rear console with a specially designated area for bottle storage.

The world premiere of the new Continental GTC convertible at the Frankfurt Motor Show comes as Bentley’s sales rebound across the globe.

Despite recent economic uncertainty, sales increased year-on-year in major markets, demonstrating the incredible interest in the new Bentley model range. With the new GTC convertible set to go on sale in the last quarter, Bentley expects to deliver an overall sales increase of around 40% for 2011.

For the year to August, Bentley sales increased by 31% with 4016 cars delivered to customers worldwide. For the first time ever, over a thousand Bentley vehicles were sold in the Chinese region – a remarkable increase of 67% year-to-date – with this milestone achieved before the end of August.

However, it is not just China that is showing renewed vigour. Bentley’s biggest single market remains the US and with sales of 1195 cars to the end of August across the entire Americas region, the brand is up by 36% on 2010. Europe too is showing increased confidence, up 35% overall and led by a resurgent Germany where Bentley sales are up by two-thirds.

Leading this growth is strong demand for the Continental GT coupe. Just under half of all Bentley sales are GTs as it reached all markets for the first time in August. Mulsanne too has a strong order bank and, with the arrival soon of the new Continental GTC convertible, there is a solid foundation for future growth expectations.

Speaking on the eve of the Frankfurt Motor Show, Bentley Motors’ Chairman and Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer, said, “It is an incredibly exciting time for Bentley. We have a strong new model line-up driving an increasing global interest in the Brand. The new Continental GTC, which we officially reveal tomorrow, has already been previewed to some customers and their response has been extremely positive. With this, and other new models still in the pipeline, I am confident we can sustain this strong sales performance.”

Taking cues from its GT coupe sibling launched last year, the new Continental GTC builds on the highly successful foundation of the previous cabriolet, which premiered in 2006. The new convertible delivers a more contemporary and muscular style, with increased performance and an ever-greater array of modern technology. Yet the hallmarks of Bentley remain; the power and performance matched to the luxury, quality and bespoke craftsmanship that can only be Bentley.

Bentley will debut the new Continental GTC at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 13th September and it is now available to order with first customer deliveries beginning in late 2011.

Bentley, in collaboration with British design company, Linley, has announced a special edition Continental Flying Spur limited to only 10 units.

The limited edition CFS model will be sold in China where Bentley’s biggest four-door models are the most successful.

The special edition Continental Flying Spur Linley features a special rose-wood that’s been applied to the fascia, centre console, waist-rail and roof console. The veneers cover the entire wood surfaces of the model, where Bentley’s chestnut or walnut would normally be used.

A unique Linley Helix motif has been taken from the distinctive Linley Helix Furniture Collection and is being used on the waist-rails and picnic table of the Flying Spurs. The Helix pattern is made up of four different types of veneer which contrast with the Santos rosewood to show the wave effect delivered by the marquetry.

In addition, the rear console is being modified for a customer-commissioned Linley humidor.

Other modifications include stainless steel Linley treadplates, as well as a special rhodium-plated plaque in the glove box.

And to further pamper these 10 lucky CFS owners, Bentley has included a leather bag, a cashmere blanket, luggage tags and other memorabilia with the brands’ logo engraved on them.

We are just weeks away from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and it appears that Bentley is ready to debut their new 2012 Bentley Continental GTC Convertible. The British automaker has just dropped the details and pictures of the new 2012 Bentley Continental GTC Convertible ahead of its world premiere in Frankfurt.

Coming in with an overall weight saving of 70kg versus its predecessor, the new Continental GTC builds on the foundation of the previous cabriolet, which premiered in 2006.

The new GTC is fitted with aluminium front wings made without the need for seams or welds that create the look and feel of a coach-built car. 20” wheels come as standard while 21” are available as an option.

The four-seater luxury convertible features more space and luxurious hand-crafted items surround you within the cabin; such as soft-touch leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets. There are 17 standard soft-touch leather hide colours with six colour split combinations complemented by a range of seven veneers that help to spoil you for choice.

In addition, the new GTC now comes with additional rear legroom, new storage solutions and innovative features such as touch-screen infotainment, automatic seat-belt presenters and a Bentley-designed Neck Warmer.

All that and the new model even offers acoustic glass and under-body panels in order to provide you with the best noise isolation in existence.

Power for the 2012 Bentley Continental GTC comes from a 6.0L, twin-turbocharged W12 engine that produces 567bhp with a peak torque of 700Nm.

Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system, the new Bentley Continental GTC sprints from 0-100kmh in 4.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 314kmh.

So drop that top and feel the wind in your hair via Bentley’s classy video!

90 years after Bentley’s very first customer, Noel Van Raalte, took delivery of the Chassis No. 3 (registered AX 3827 in the UK) for the princely sum of £1,150 (Malaysian equivalent of RM5,630) that same three-litre graced the Gooding & Co. auction at Pebble Beach, commanding a price of $962,500, which would roughly equal about RM2,859,269 today.

The Chassis No.3 is an extraordinary, ‘matching-numbers’ car with original aluminium coachwork and brass brightwork. The marque’s signature craftsmanship and engineering capabilities, introduced by company founder W.O. Bentley, are evident even in this oldest surviving production three-litre.

The true test of the engineering of the three-litre came with wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in 1924 and 1927, the start of an epic run of five Bentley victories in eight years. The legend had been born in a successful albeit short period since the founding of Bentley in 1919 and this sporting heritage remains at the heart of all Bentley models today.

“Pebble Beach is the ideal venue to showcase Bentleys old and new,” said Chairman & Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer. “On the same day that Gooding & Co. auctioned the world’s oldest surviving production Bentley, we hosted a private preview of a brand new model. During Monterey week, the enthusiasm for the evolution of the automobile is palpable.”

A Scottish tuner named Imperium, which is known for customizing high-end cars, has created this red Bentley Continental GT for a wealthy UK client, who asked for a one-off bespoke Continental GT that’s to his exact specifications.

This exclusive version of the Continental GT contains some truly unique features including front and rear apron upgrades, revised side skirts, boot spoiler lip, and also a rear carbon fibre diffuser.

Additionally, the car also receives a one-off designed and manufactured ultra light fully forged alloy wheels, which were specifically designed as directed by the client himself.

Next to the exterior updates, the car receives an optimized braking system, a lowered sport suspension and an ECU upgrade. The exhaust system has been individually tailored to the exact level of exhaust noise and depth of sound desired by the client.

The interior too has been fitted with some unique components. The car has been fitted with specially selected leathers, customized carbon fibre, refined wood trim, ultra suede or classic black piano finishes as requested by the client. Finally, the interior is completed by adding a custom made ergonomic sports steering wheel. Talk about knowing what you want!