BENTLEY Motors has announced a seven percent increase in Middle East deliveries for 2014 with sales led by the Flying Spur W12, the world's fastest road-going sedan and the Continental GT Speed Convertible, the brand's fastest convertible model. In 2014 Bentley Motors Middle East also enjoyed the most successful first half of the year ever with an overall increase in deliveries of 30 percent in comparison to the same period in 2013. The results mark a positive start for the new regional Bentley team, which recently announced the Middle East as the new home for its headquarters for operations across the Middle East, Africa, India and Asia Pacific (MEAI & Asia Pac.). Now based at new headquarters in the Dubai Airport Free Zone, the Bentley Motors regional operations team trebled in size in 2014, further demonstrating the brand's commitment to the region. The operation includes sales, marketing, after-sales and business development activities for the four key regions. Neil Wilford, Regional Manager, Middle East, India and Africa, Bentley Motors, said: “2014 was a pivotal year for Bentley Motors in the Middle East. This region is now the hub for our operations across MEAI and Asia Pac. and that is testament to the importance that this part of the world plays to the brand's overall business.
“Sales grew across all of our key Middle East markets last year and our UAE and KSA dealers continue to hold prestigious positions amongst the top three Bentley dealers in the world. Bentley provides a unique blend of automotive craftsmanship, performance and luxury that is unrivalled and we look forward to bringing more of that to our customers this year.” Throughout 2014 Bentley introduced a number of models to its prestigious line up including the new Continental GT V8 S, the new Flying Spur V8 and the new Continental GT Speed, all of which are now available across regional Bentley partners. The new Mulsanne Speed was launched globally in November and will arrive in the region in the first three months of 2015. The new pinnacle flagship is the fastest ultra-luxury driving experience in the world and is tailored for the driver, with 537 PS (530 bhp/395 kW), 1,100 Nm (811 lb.ft) and selectable sports suspension and steering on demand. The global launch of the new SUV, the Bentley Bentayga, is expected in 2016 and the new model will be a game changer for the ultra-luxury brand, with the Middle East expected to be one of its principal markets. Globally, Bentley strengthened its position as the world's most sought after luxury car brand after announcing 2014 as the company's record-breaking year. 11,020 cars were delivered, representing nine percent growth on the 2013 figure of 10,120 cars. — SG
