Bentley is creating a future driven by new technologies, materials, fuels and skills, in the pursuit of a progressive, new world: one in which the highest levels of luxury mobility are achieved with sustainable methods.
Its latest sustainability strategy outlines how the luxury car brand plans to make this future a reality and, in turn, become the leading maker of luxury electric cars. Starting with a build on the carbon-neutral status of the Bentley factory in Crewe by investing in a ‘Bentley Dream Factory’ with the intention of becoming climate neutral, end-to-end, from 2030.
Elsewhere and also impressively, almost a decade ago, Bentley began building what at the time would become the UK’s largest rooftop array of solar panels. A second phase followed, with more panels being mounted on the factory’s car port. Now, up to 40% of the factory’s electricity needs can be met with solar power alone – and the additional gas and electricity the company buys in is certified green.
Inside the Bentley paint shop, the brand also use reverse osmosis treatment units to ensure the water they use is pure enough to give every car a peerless finish. Yet for every three litres of water they use this way, only one litre goes into the paint. In response, Bentley have installed recycling systems that capture all waste water, so they can put it to use elsewhere on the factory site.
To help improve biodiversity across the Bentley site, the brand have installed a green wall at the factory. The first of its kind in South Cheshire, it contains over 2,600 plants, spanning 28 different species of ferns, grasses and evergreens. Every plant was grown locally and is individually potted in the wall. To irrigate them without wasting water, a special automated system ensures they get exactly the right amount of hydration, all year round. In just one year, the wall is predicted to produce around 40 kg of oxygen, while also helping to filter out toxins and dust.
Bentley’s commitment to a greener future also extends beyond the boundaries of the Bentley organisation. It even encompasses their approach to choosing brand partners. A demonstration is Bentley’s partnership with the elite Scotch whisky distiller, The Macallan. As two of the world’s most iconic luxury brands, Bentley and The Macallan share a long-established tradition of craftsmanship, creativity and innovation – and they share a vision of a more sustainable future, too.
Beginning with the launch of the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid in the stunning landscape of The Macallan Estate in Scotland, the two luxury brands are now working together on numerous green initiatives. Among them is a drive to promote the use of sustainable materials and develop a community of artisan suppliers. The partnership will build on research already undertaken by both brands, covering responsible sourcing and packaging, both of which will prove fundamental in the creation of mutually curated products, experiences, and content.
Bentley’s journey into electrification is already well underway, with its latest steps forward including the launches of the new Bentayga Hybrid and the Flying Spur Hybrid – both of which combine Bentley’s signature performance and craftsmanship with future-facing technologies.
The key to achieving its very ambitious electrification programme, also sees the brand committing to launching a new electric model each year, from 2025, and the first electric Bentley in 2025, which should redefine Bentley’s credentials as the benchmark manufacturer in sustainable luxury mobility.
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
