Bentley and Linley introduce 'Limited Edition' Flying Spur

The measurable rise in demand for ultra-luxurious automobiles in Asian markets has already seen a number of global auto giants, the likes of Rolls-Royce (Year of the Dragon Collection), Volvo (Concept Universe/You) and now British luxury car maker Bentley taking their creativity and the customization levels of their cars to an entirely new level, clearly signifying its personal interest in building bespoke models for particularly promising markets like China.

With Chinese markets now accounting for the sales of more than a 1000 Bentleys’, the popularity of the exclusive brand in such a wealth and power driven economy has been a huge motivation for the luxury car maker, which in its close collaboration with British design company Linley has once again created something truly special.

The 10 Limited Edition Bentley Continental Flying Spur models that will now go on sale in China, have received visually appealing touches by interior automobile design experts Linley, who have quite cleverly integrated their creative talents into the car’s fascia, the slender waistrail and even the overhead roof console.

With carefully selected Linley veneers in Santos rosewood covering the wood panels, a handcrafted inlaid Helix motif for the waistline, a customer-commissioned Linley rear console and rhodium-plated Linley badging on the glove box and treadplate areas of the car, these ‘Limited Edition’ Bentley models have clearly been made to satisfy some very high-pedigree Chinese customers.

At the recent launch of these limited edition models in London, Christine Gaskell, member of the board for personnel, Bentley Motors, said, “Our collaboration with Linley brings a new element to the interior of one of our globally best-selling models. The Continental Flying Spur has a unique executive style and elegance which is complemented wonderfully by the Linley veneers. We share an expertise in the use of natural materials and a commitment to superlative craftsmanship.”

While most of the interior design work is marvelous to look at, what really sets this car apart is the iconic Linley Helix motif that has been painstakingly weaved into the waist-rails and picnic tables of the Flying Spurs. This pattern is a trademark of the Linley brand and in order to replicate this look in the Bentley, had to be handcrafted with four different types of veneer, which contrast with the Santos rosewood to show the wave effect delivered by the marquetry.

Mark Blanchard, Head of Design at Linley, shared his thoughts on this particularly ambitious project, saying,“It has been an exciting and challenging project to work on.  We designed the interior within the stringent constraints specified by Bentley, however we ensured the car exemplified Linley craftsmanship.

Besides the visual elements and passenger comforts that have been tailormade for this car, a Linley branded leather bag with a sumptuous cashmere blanket and other Linley items such as a leather luggage tag will also be offered to customers in the boot of this highly luxurious limited edition Flying Spur model.