Bentley Sales Up 28% in 2000
9 January 2001
Bentley Sales Up 28% in 2000DETROIT, Jan. 9 North American sales of Bentley motors in 2000 rose by 28% when compared with 1999. The President of Rolls-Royce & Bentley Motor Cars, Inc. Alasdair Stewart said: "We are delighted with the increase, however we are not surprised by the growing interest in, and popularity of our latest models. The Bentley Arnage benefited from significant enhancements for this model year -- including greater interior space; remote parking sensors and satellite navigation. In addition the fitting of Bentley's famous 6.75 liter turbocharged V8 engine to the Arnage Red Label sedan has been very warmly welcomed by Bentley enthusiasts." Sales of Bentley two-door models in 2000 were 111, including 85 Azure convertibles and 26 Continental coupes. Bentley Arnage saloons accounted for 447 sales, bringing total Bentley sales for 2000 to 558 cars compared with 437 in 1999. Stewart added: "I believe we have barely scratched the surface, especially with the Bentley Arnage Red Label. It is an outstanding vehicle, which embodies all of the great Bentley traditions of power, performance and presence. Current indications show that the strong demand for the Red Label will continue." "The year 2000 saw significant and exciting announcements for Bentley Motors. Both the interior and exterior designs for the Mid Sized Bentley (MSB) were signed off. To support production at Crewe of this all-new Bentley, 400 new employees were taken on and an additional investment of US $105 million in plant and equipment confirmed. In August we announced the Bentley State Limousine for H.M. Queen Elizabeth, and in November we confirmed that we would be returning to motor sport and the famous Circuit International du Mans after 71 years to contest the Le Mans 24 Hour race." This is an exciting time for Bentley; more and more enthusiasts are discovering what Bentley has to offer, and there is no reason why our market share cannot grow."