Bentley aims to drive China success

BENTLEY Motors is hoping to woo more customers at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, after revealing that China is now its number one market.

The VW-owned Crewe-based manufacturer is showcasing its prototype SUV , the EXP 9 F, along with giving the new Continental GT V8 coupe its official public debut.

Bentley’s global sales for the first three months of 2012 surged 46.6% with 1,759 cars delivered to customers.

This growth was led by the emergence of China as Bentley’s largest market in the first quarter with sales in the region up 84.9% (578 cars delivered).

Chairman and chief executive Wolfgang Dürheimer said: “I would like to welcome China to its new role as our largest market.”

“Bentley’s customers in China, as those elsewhere, value our emphasis on the finest craftsmanship and automotive engineering. They know that buying a Bentley is an unrivalled combination of luxury and performance.

“With the unveiling of our SUV concept EXP 9 F we have had a phenomenal start to 2012 and expect to see continued growth over the rest of the year as the Continental V8 hits the global market.”