Bentley Motors Limited was established in 1919 in the Cricklewood area of the United Kingdom and is currently an automobile manufacturer headquartered in Crewe, Cheshire. The company has been operating under the Volkswagen Group since 1998. Positioned in the luxury car segment, Bentley focuses on the transition to hybrid and battery electric vehicles (BEV) within the framework of the “Beyond100+” strategy.
Bentley Logo (Bentley Official Website)
Historical Development
In its early years, Bentley drew attention with its achievements in the Le Mans 24 Hours race; in the 1920s, the racing team known as the “Bentley Boys” contributed to the brand’s recognition. After being acquired by Volkswagen AG in 1998, it developed its technological infrastructure and was restructured with Grand Tourer models such as the Continental GT. As of 2024, production of the internal combustion W12 engine has ended, and the product range has been updated with hybrid and PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) models.
Product Range
Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Models: Flying Spur Hybrid, Bentayga Hybrid. Planned Electric Models (BEV): The launch of the first fully electric model is planned for 2027.
Electric Vehicle Technology
Within the framework of the “Beyond100+” strategy, Bentley aims to release at least one new hybrid or BEV model each year. Special assembly lines for battery electric vehicle production are being developed at the Crewe manufacturing facility. The plan is to convert the entire product range to electric by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality across all operations by 2035.
Global Production Network and Financial Performance
Bentley carries out its production at the Crewe facility in the United Kingdom. By the end of 2024, total deliveries were reported as 10,600 units. Annual revenue was recorded at 2.648 billion Euros, with an operating profit of 373 million Euros. Revenue per vehicle increased by 10%. Nevertheless, total annual revenue marked the lowest level since 2020.
Market Performance and International Expansion
In 2024, sales in the Chinese market decreased by 21% due to reduced demand. However, recovery trends were observed in certain markets toward the end of the year. In the U.S. market, potential import tariffs, particularly for electric vehicles, prompted a review of pricing strategies.
Strategic Goals and Future Planning
Bentley aims to launch its first fully electric model by 2027 and to convert the entire product range to electric by 2030. The company’s long-term planning focuses on reducing operational carbon emissions, developing digital production infrastructure, and maintaining competitiveness in the sustainable luxury car segment.