As Bentley Motors reaches the end of its centenary year, it has shown its dedication to sustainability by planting 100 trees. Based in Crewe, Cheshire, Bentley has boosted the biodiversity around its site by planting numerous species of native British trees. 15 new cherry trees now line the road to the company’s main entrance, and new maple, beech, walnut, lime and elm saplings stand within the grounds of Bentley’s wellbeing and conference centre, Legends. The company timed this work to coincide with National Tree Week, which ran from 23 November to 1 December.
Peter Bosch, a member of Bentley’s board for manufacturing states: “trees play a vital role in tackling climate change because they help to improve air quality, absorb CO2 and increase oxygen”. He also explains: “Sustainably-sourced wood has been one of Bentley’s core interior components since our beginnings 100 years ago – and it continues to be an essential element of the unique craftsmanship in our cars. Our wood veneers are ethically sourced by experts who go to great lengths to find the finest veneers in the world”.
Bentley Motors is clearly pioneering a green future for luxury automobiles. With plans to electrify the entirety of its fleet by 2023, Bentley also recently announced that its factory headquarters have been certified by the Carbon Trust as carbon-neutral.
Earlier this year, Bentley unveiled its EXP 100 GT, a grand touring concept car that explores what innovative driving could look like in 2035. The all-electric model harnesses four motors to enable maximum control around corners, and a solid-state battery that guarantees high charge density. Bentley claims that the EXP 100 GT will be capable of reaching 80% charge in just 15 minutes when plugged into a rapid-charger. The vehicle will also encapsulate a myriad of futuristic technologies, such as air curation; a method of blocking infiltration of pollutants into the car whilst encouraging diffusion of natural fragrances from the outside world.
As well as promoting sustainable innovation within its engineering, Bentley Motors is conscious of fostering a sustainable workplace. As shown by its tree-planting, the company is diligent in caring for its 4,000 headquarter-strong employees and their local surroundings in Cheshire. Over 400 Bentley employees currently cycle to work through the company’s dedicated scheme, and the company has been named one of Britain’s Top Employers for five years running. The average length of service at the company is 12 years. Bentley also keenly engages with local schools in the Crewe area, offering 150 work experience positions and promoting participation in STEM subjects.
2020 is looking to be an exciting year for the luxury automotive brand. As Bentley enters its second century of business, its ongoing success will surely depend on how it adapts to meet modern challenges and opportunities; especially regarding sustainability.