First Bentley Bentayga delivered at Crewe manufacturing plant

A car that led to the creation of more than 1,500 UK jobs and formed part of a £840m investment programme has rolled off the production line for the first time at Bentley’s Crewe HQ.

The automaker’s first Bentley Bentayga SUV was completed today (November 27), with the model now set to enter full production.

Bentley Motors’ chairman and chief exec, Wolfgang Dürheimer, said: “This car is a celebration of UK manufacturing at its very best, not only reinforcing our commitment to industry in this country, job creation and significant investment, but to our home in Crewe.

“This is an important moment in our history, where we reflect and celebrate, but also look ahead to delivering this extraordinary car to our customers.”

Speaking further, Mr Dürheimer thanked his Bentley colleagues for their “dedication and professionalism” during the production process.

He continued: “It would not have been possible to deliver this car without the support and belief from the UK Government, our parent company and other business partners. We can all take pride in this achievement.”

The first production Bentayga took 130 hours to complete.

Addressing the firm’s 4,000-strong workforce at an event held to mark the completion, Michael Straughan, a member of the board for manufacturing at Bentley, commented: “This is a proud moment for the entire company.

“It’s been four years in the making and is a celebration of a sector-defining British handcrafted car.”