Bentley's replacement for the Continental family is likely to be constructed of aluminium, to cut weight and transform the dynamics. According to those in the know, the next Continental will use adopt Audi's MLB platform. This is being readied for a host of new cars, starting with the new A5 and, in its biggest guise, the new A8. As a result, a lightweight aluminium spaceframe body and new-generation four-wheel drive are on the spec sheet, and there's enough room for the mighty W12. Meanwhile, the Bentley boys are contemplating additional low-volume models like a Sedanca de Ville, a Shooting Brake or a four-door cabriolet. Next up however is the Azure coupe, referred to internally as Havana. The £200k-plus, 450bhp V8 four-seater is pencilled in for the 2007 Geneva motor show. More: http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/news.php?sid=311&page=1
08.01.2007. No room for an SUV in Bentley's expansion Chief, Franz-Josef Paefgen, speaking at the Detroit Motor Show, said that the Crewe firm is looking at possible expansion but wont make any decision for at least 2-years. But, any expansion will not include a Bentley SUV, nor any vehicle smaller than the Continental GT. "We do not want to produce vehicles will not fit the brand's image," he said. He also said that Bentley will not be using Volkswagen's Phaeton factory in Dresden, Germany, any longer. Bentley used the facility, temporarily, last year to help boost production of the Continental Flying Spur coupe, in readiness for the launch. The Crewe chief forecast sales for the coming years of between 9,000 and 10,000 vehicles. "Bentley is profitable and prefers to stay a small company," he said: 18-month waiting list "We do not wish to destroy the brand and we are not in a rush to take Bentley in the wrong direction." Last year, Bentley sold a record 9,200 cars and saw its biggest market, the USA, take delivery of 4,017 cars, a 10% increase. Last year the Crewe operation produced 10,087 cars but the average waiting list, worldwide, is around 18-months. Source: maybach.ru
I am too. It is good to see the Bentley board thinking about the long term ...rather than focus on short term profits. Bentley is selling very well but has maintained its exclusive image -- it is a difficult line to walk.
