BENTAYGA: In tribute to International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Bentley Motors proudly introduces three Exclusive Bentaygas editions by paying homage to the renowned ‘Bentley Girls’: Mary Petre Bruce, Dorothy Paget, and Diana Barnato Walker.
These Exclusive Bentaygas, conceptualized by designers Emma Carruthers and Georgia Gough, draw inspiration from the remarkable contributions of these women to Bentley’s illustrious legacy spanning over a century. While the spotlight often shines on the Bentley Boys, it’s crucial to acknowledge the significant impact the Bentley Girls had, refusing to be relegated to the sidelines and leaving an indelible mark on the brand’s history. These exclusive Bentaygas editions encapsulate the spirit of these extraordinary women, their adventures, and their penchant for luxury.
Karen Lange, Bentley’s Board Member for Human Resources, reflects on the importance of honoring these trailblazing women:
“The Bentley Girls played pivotal roles in shaping Bentley’s history, and it’s imperative to recognize their contributions. As we continually strive to expand the Bentley Family, it’s essential to pay homage to those who have added depth and significance to the Bentley brand we cherish today. These three unique vehicles serve as a tribute to the legacies of the Bentley Girls and their invaluable contributions.”
Mary Petre Bruce: The Need for Speed
The Bentayga Azure, inspired by Mary Petre Bruce, commemorates her remarkable feat in 1929 when she set the world record for single-handed driving by covering over 2,164 miles in her 4½ Litre Bentley at Montlhéry, France, averaging a speed of more than 89 miles per hour. Despite adverse weather conditions and unfamiliarity with the Bentley, Mary’s determination propelled her through fog and cold to achieve this extraordinary milestone.
In addition to her prowess behind the wheel, Mary set records in powerboat racing and aviation, becoming the first woman to circumnavigate the globe solo. The Mary Petre Bruce Bentayga Azure features Parson Green Pearlescent Paint and bespoke 24-karat gold organ stops in the interior, paying homage to her achievements and opulent lifestyle. Vertical fluted quilting seat uppers and door cards, along with Mother of Pearl Marquetry, further echo her connection to the iconic 4½ Litre Bentley.
Dorothy Paget and the Legendary Blower Bentley
Dorothy Paget’s passion for speed led her to play a pivotal role in the creation of the iconic 4½ Litre Supercharged, known as the Blower Bentley. Unlike her contemporaries, Dorothy prioritized her love for racing over societal norms. Her collaboration with racing driver Sir Tim Birkin resulted in the creation of the legendary Blower Bentley racing team, which competed alongside Bentley’s Works team at prestigious events like Brooklands and Le Mans.
The Dorothy Paget Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Mulliner pays tribute to her legacy with its solid Blower Green Exterior paint and Cumbrian and Blower Green interior hide, reminiscent of the iconic Team Car #2. Nickel Painted Self Levelling Wheel Accent Bezels and Painted Nickel Veneer Carriers in the interior pay homage to the Blower’s distinctive features, while engine spin aluminum fascias add a touch of elegance.
Diana Barnato: A Legacy of Courage
Diana Barnato Walker, daughter of racing legend Woolf Barnato, inherited her father’s adventurous spirit. An accomplished aviator and horsewoman, Diana made history as one of the first female pilots to join the Air Transport Auxiliary during World War II. Despite the dangers, she delivered over 260 Spitfires and numerous aircraft to frontline squadrons, showcasing her courage and skill.
The Diana Barnato Bentayga S, inspired by her favorite aircraft, the Spitfire, features a Smoke Green exterior and a green and saddle interior hide split, reminiscent of the Spitfire Mk9’s cockpit. The bespoke D Pillar badge with the Spitfire emblem and Signal Yellow accents further pay homage to her aviation legacy.
Empowering Extraordinary Women
Bentley Motors’ Extraordinary Women initiative aims to inspire and mentor the next generation of female leaders in engineering, design, technology, and business. By fostering diversity and inclusivity, Bentley is committed to realizing its vision of becoming the most diverse luxury car company, reflective of both its employees and its exceptional vehicles.
