who owns bentley motor cars

When you picture a Bentley, you likely imagine unparalleled luxury, handcrafted interiors, and a legacy of British automotive excellence. But behind the iconic winged badge lies a fascinating corporate story that has shaped the brand we know today. Many car enthusiasts often wonder about the powerful entity steering this symbol of opulence. The question of who owns Bentley motor cars leads us to a major player in the global automotive industry, a connection that provides Bentley with the resources to innovate while honoring its rich heritage.

The Simple Answer to Who Owns Bentley Motor Cars

Since 1998, Bentley Motors has been a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. This acquisition was a pivotal moment for the brand, rescuing it from a period of uncertainty and injecting it with significant investment. The Volkswagen Group, one of the world’s largest automotive manufacturers, also owns prestigious brands like Audi, Porsche, and Lamborghini. Being part of this vast family gives Bentley access to shared technology and engineering resources, which is crucial for developing modern, high-performance vehicles while maintaining their unique character.

Bentley’s Journey to Volkswagen

Bentley’s path to its current home wasn’t straightforward. For much of the 20th century, Bentley was intertwined with Rolls-Royce, a period where the two brands were nearly indistinguishable. This changed in the 1990s when Vickers, the then-owner, decided to sell. A fierce bidding war erupted between Volkswagen and BMW. In a complex turn of events, Volkswagen ultimately secured the Bentley brand, its factory in Crewe, England, and the nameplates, while BMW acquired the rights to Rolls-Royce. This separation allowed Bentley to finally forge its own distinct identity.

What This Ownership Means for Bentley Today

Being under the Volkswagen umbrella has been largely positive for Bentley. It has allowed for massive investment in the Crewe headquarters, ensuring that the tradition of British craftsmanship continues. Furthermore, this backing enables Bentley to tackle ambitious projects like the Bentayga SUV, which opened up a new market segment, and more recently, the groundbreaking journey towards electrification. The ownership provides financial stability and technological prowess, letting the Bentley team focus on what they do best: creating extraordinary motoring experiences without compromise.

So, while the spirit of Bentley is quintessentially British, its strength and future direction are powered by its place within the global Volkswagen Group. This powerful partnership ensures that Bentley can continue to build some of the world’s most luxurious and powerful grand touring cars for generations to come.