Tomorrow and Beyond

Emission-free vehicles are a critical step in becoming carbon-neutral. Yet sustainable cars are only part of the story. We must also achieve sustainable car manufacturing, crafting our cars from end to end without harming the environment.

In 2019, the Bentley site in Crewe was certified carbon neutral to PAS 2060 by the Carbon Trust. This is not a new development, however. It is a project we have been working on for more than two decades.

As well as harnessing solar energy, we have looked at other ways to reduce our carbon footprint. To that end, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel has provided an ultra-low emission alternative to diesel for in-house logistics vehicles – an initiative that makes the factory the first luxury automotive plant to run all in-house operations on renewable fuels or green electricity. A 34,000 litre tank and pump are used to fuel the ten logistics HGVs that transfer parts between the factory and a storage depot ten miles away, as well as over 20 smaller on-site vehicles including fleet cars and Bentley’s iconic Heritage Collection. The fuel itself, known as Green D+, cuts tailpipe CO2 emissions by over 86%, while reducing nitrous oxide by up to 30% and particulates by up to 80%, in comparison to conventional fuel.

Another project, dubbed Power Down, demonstrates what can be achieved when everyone is prepared to make small changes to the way they work. Estimates suggest that switching off devices such as screens, fans, lights and chargers at the end of every day could save up to 700kw – roughly the same amount of energy it takes to power three average sized homes.

To help improve biodiversity across the Bentley site, we have installed a green wall at the factory. The first of its kind in South Cheshire, it contains over 2,600 plants, spanning 28 different species of ferns, grasses and evergreens. Every plant was grown locally and is individually potted in the wall. To irrigate them without wasting water, a special automated system ensures they get exactly the right amount of hydration, all year round. In just one year, the wall is predicted to produce around 40 kg of oxygen, while also helping to filter out toxins and dust.

Established in 2005, the Leather Working Group is comprised of leather manufacturers, traders, suppliers, technical experts, as well as brands and retailers, representing a range of industries from fashion, accessories and footwear, to homewares and interiors – and now, luxury automotive. Aiming to improve environmental performance in the leather industry, the Leather Working Group audits leather manufacturers against clear best practice benchmarks and stringent audit standards which are independently monitored.

Bentley is now a fully approved corporate member and is working towards ensuring that by the end of 2021, all of its leather is sourced from suppliers and tanneries that have successfully completed the Leather Working Group audit process, with the end goal of each one achieving the Leather Working Group’s gold standard award through a culture of continuous improvement

Our commitment to a greener future extends beyond the boundaries of the Bentley organisation. It even encompasses our approach to choosing brand partners. A demonstration is Bentley’s partnership with the elite Scotch whisky distiller, The Macallan. As two of the world’s most iconic luxury brands, Bentley and The Macallan share a long-established tradition of craftsmanship, creativity and innovation – and they share a vision of a more sustainable future, too.

Beginning with the launch of the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid in the stunning landscape of The Macallan Estate in Scotland, we are now working together on numerous green initiatives. Among them is a drive to promote the use of sustainable materials and develop a community of artisan suppliers. The partnership will build on research already undertaken by both brands, covering responsible sourcing and packaging, both of which will prove fundamental in the creation of mutually curated products, experiences, and content.

Read more about The Macallan x Bentley partnership here.