Bentley on course for another record-breaking year

Bentley Motors is set to continue its record-breaking pattern, with 2014 on track to become the company’s most successful year.

At the half-year point, global deliveries increased by 23 percent, to 5,254 cars, up from 4,279 cars in the first six months of 2013.

There was strong growth across every region, with gains in China and the Middle East, increasing by 61 percent and 27 percent, respectively.

Global success was driven by new model introductions, with the Continental GT V8 S coupe and convertible, and Flying Spur and Flying Spur V8 entering the market to critical acclaim.

Bentley’s member of the board for sales, marketing and aftersales Kevin Rose said: “There is simply no one in the luxury automotive sector that can match these results. We continue to prove we are the world’s most sought-after luxury car brand. It’s vital to continuously develop in our exclusive market, as our customers are the most discerning. There is no question that some markets will remain tough but we are confident of a good 2014.”

The Americas region, remaining in Bentley’s No. 1 market position, delivered 1,388 cars, an 8-percent jump on the 2013 performance of 1,282 cars.

Success of the Flying Spur and Flying Spur V8 powered sales in the Chinese region to leap by 61 percent, 1,318 cars in 2014 against 817 cars the year before.

Strong performance in Germany helped Europe post a sales increase of 11 percent. 825 cars were delivered in comparison to 740 cars in 2013. Deliveries in the United Kingdom also increased by 2 percent.

Rising on 698 in 2013, 713 cars were delivered, among the best UK performances at this stage. Significant sales growth in the Middle East continued, a 27-percent improvement on 2013 (424 cars), with 537 cars delivered.

The Middle East is now firmly established as one of Bentley’s central regions. These results were reinforced in Asia Pacific, with 323 cars delivered, a 46-percent rise on the 2013 figure of 222 cars.

In Japan, meanwhile, 150 cars were delivered, a 56-percent growth on 2013’s 96 cars. The year 2013 was Bentley’s record year, posting the highest delivery, turnover and profit figures in the company’s 95-year history.