News & Events

	Bentley Outlines Environmental Strategy Bentley Motors today unveiled a far-reaching environmental strategy to reduce CO2 emissions and dramatically improve fuel economy. Bentley will become the first manufacturer in its segment and one of the first in the world to deliver renewable-fuel vehicles throughout its range, along with substantial powertrain improvements. The strategy follows years of engineering studies and intensive product development, exploring alternative environmental technologies in depth. The renewable fuel programme reflects Bentley's commitment to the environment while maintaining vehicle performance. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley Chief Executive, said: "This is a major step in the history of Bentley, reflecting the increasing expectation from our customers around the world for performance motoring with fuel efficient engines. We will set a benchmark in our segment of the industry by making every engine capable of running on renewable fuels, reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency throughout our fleet." Dr. Paefgen said the initiative will help Bentley as a corporation to address the two-fold global issue of CO2 emissions and longer-term fuel availability, as part of its corporate social responsibility. "Bentley does not believe that short-term measures are an appropriate answer to these global issues, and is basing its strategy on a long-term vision," he added. Efficiency improvements will be achieved first through the application of innovative technology to its 8 and 12 cylinder engines, including enhanced engine management, and new, improved transmissions and drivelines, as well as through weight reduction. As part of its commitment to reduce CO2 output on every new model, these efforts will lead to at least a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2012. Secondly, a new powertrain will be introduced by 2012, delivering a 40% reduction in fuel consumption, while maintaining current levels of performance. Thirdly, all engines across the entire range will become compatible with the use of renewable fuels by 2012, with the initial rollout beginning by next year. "It is our conviction that renewable fuels, in particular second-generation biofuels, have strong potential," said Dr.Paefgen. "On a well-to-wheel basis, such fuels can deliver a consistently high net CO2 reduction of up to 90%. The benefits of second-generation biofuels are significant: • They deliver a massive reduction in total CO2 emissions • They do not compete with food requirements as a raw material base • The use of biomass waste for fuel requires minimal additional land use • They deliver much higher yields than first generation crop-based fuels" "By preparing our engines at an early stage for these fuels, we believe we will help accelerate their adoption, as the supply and market for them develop. Taken together, the measures we are announcing will make the entire Bentley fleet capable of delivering less that 120 g/km by 2012," Dr. Paefgen added.
	Bentley Partners Naim to Deliver World's Best In-Car Sound System Bentley Motors has entered into partnership with Naim Audio, one of the world's most respected creators of hi-fi systems, to produce an unparalleled in-car sound system for all its future models. After 18 months of research and development, the result is an `as-live' in-car audio experience which remains true to both Bentley and Naim's philosophy of no compromise in the search for quality. From design concept to production, Bentley and Naim's engineers worked closely together to create the sound system, which is carefully tuned for each model using the most advanced acoustic analysis. Each system features an 1100 Watt amplifier - the world's most powerful production unit fitted in a car - and, depending on model, up to 15 speakers with drive units specifically designed for Bentley by Naim. Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system, enhancing the listening experience still further. The pairing of Naim Audio - based in Salisbury, England - with Bentley Motors is an ideal brand partnership, for each manufacturer has built a proud British heritage and a reputation for offering their customers the very best products in their respective industries. Branded `Naim for Bentley', this system will soon become synonymous with the ultimate in-car audio experience. "Our customers expect the ultimate in every experience when they commission a Bentley," said Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors. "The `Naim for Bentley' sound system delivers the world's ultimate in-car audio experience - allowing for `as-live' audio entertainment that is as pure as the Bentley driving experience itself." It is this experience and philosophy which led to a simple brief: to deliver the equal of the world's finest home hi-fi within a car and hence create the world's best in-car sound system. "We are absolutely delighted with the new `Naim for Bentley' range," said Paul Stephenson, Managing Director, Naim Audio. "The parallels between our two marques are so striking - we are both proud British manufacturers with a desire to produce the finest, hand-built products of their kind - that it is the perfect partnership."
	Bentley Design Director Honoured Dirk Van Braeckel, Director of Design at Bentley Motors, has been awarded the prestigious European Automotive Design Award by Designers (Europe), which honours excellence and originality in automotive design. As the Design Director of Bentley, Dirk van Braeckel was responsible for the Bentley Continental GT, a sleek 560PS 2+2 coupè that was launched in 2003 and swiftly re-established Bentley at the pinnacle of hand-crafted grand tourers. Subsequently Bentley's design team developed the four-door Continental Flying Spur and the convertible Continental GTC, as well as the new Bentley Azure and Brooklands coupe. Under his direction the Bentley design team has developed a confident new design language for the 21st century that nonetheless honours the marque traditions. Speaking of the European Automotive Design Award, Dirk says "My vision for Bentley was to create the ultimate in desirability - a classic of the future. This award is an endorsement of that vision."
	Bentley Driving Dynamics Day at Dunsfold Harwoods Bentley dealerships at Hampshire and Pulborough recently held an exciting Driving Dynamics day for the Bentley Continental range of motor cars at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey, home to BBC2's Top Gear programme. The 48 invitees were guests of Harwoods Business Affinity Partners, who each invited a number of their clients to experience the sensational handling of the Continental GT and Continental Flying Spur on this fantastic circuit. Having been thrilled on the track, both models were then presented for a more sedate, yet no less enjoyable road experience. Bentley Motors supported the event throughout and guests were given a demonstration of the magnificent craftsmanship that makes Bentley unique and goes into producing the beautiful hides and 300 year old veneers. The buzzing excitement and story swapping over a delicious lunch showed that the day was thoroughly enjoyed by all those who attended.

Dealerships