Bentley Motors Model Built Exclusively for Queen Elizabeth

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 21 -- Bentley Motors today unveiled the first photos of the Bentley State Limousine, which will be presented as a gift to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 2002 to celebrate her Golden Jubilee. This is the first Bentley ever to be used for official state occasions.

This Bentley State Limousine differs from those previously supplied by the Crewe, England factory as it is a purpose-built, unique car rather than a production version modified for state purposes. It bears no resemblance to any other Bentley, and has been designed with continual input from The Queen, Prince Phillip and the Royal Family's head chauffeur.

Bentley is entirely responsible for the design, styling and chassis, while manufacturing and supplier partners from the British Motor Industry assisted the Bentley-led consortium with bodywork, electrics, trim packaging and engineering and powertrain. While this vehicle will be the first State Bentley, the tradition of Crewe-designed State Limousines for the Royals dates to 1950 when a Rolls-Royce Phantom IV was delivered to Princess Elizabeth. Since then, four additional Rolls-Royce limousines have been constructed and delivered for official use.

The Bentley State Limousine will be presented to The Queen in May 2002 and perform its first official state function in June.