Effective immediately, Bentley Motors will use 100 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for all customer vehicle airfreight worldwide. The British marque celebrated its Centenary in 2019, and this decision addresses one of the most carbon-intensive elements of its distribution network and supports its Beyond100+ strategy and long-term Net Zero objective.
Airfreight remains a limited but necessary part of Bentley’s global logistics system, typically used when timing or regulatory constraints make sea freight impractical. Aviation produces significantly higher emissions than maritime transport. By switching to International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) SAF, Bentley expects lifecycle CO2e reductions of up to 70 to 95 percent compared with conventional jet fuel, depending on feedstock and production method. The fuel integrates into existing aircraft and airport infrastructure without modification, allowing immediate implementation.
"Our transition to using certified Sustainable Aviation Fuel across all customer car airfreight movements reflects how we are taking measurable, evidence-based steps to reduce emissions in the parts of our logistics network where flights remain necessary. This initiative forms part of Bentley’s broader programme to reduce operational and value chain emissions in line with our long-term Net Zero ambition" - Aimee Kelly, Head of Sustainability at Bentley Motors
Bentley has already transported customer vehicles using SAF and reports substantial well-to-wheel CO2e reductions versus standard aviation fuel. Current coverage applies to all customer vehicle air movements, with further exploration underway to extend SAF use across additional logistics routes.
The logistics policy aligns with broader structural changes announced in 2024. Beyond100+ commits Bentley to full battery electric vehicle production by 2035. Its first fully electric model, described as a high-end urban SUV, is due in 2026. Each year through 2035, Bentley plans to introduce a new hybrid or electric model engineered at its Crewe headquarters.
The transition includes the phase-out of the W12 engine. The Bentley Continental GT and Bentley Flying Spur now use high-performance hybrid V8 powertrains. Bentley previewed its electric direction with the Bentley EXP15 concept, referencing the 1930 “Blue Train” Speed Six, seen at Pebble Beach last year.
The Crewe location, which has been Bentley’s home since 1940, is also undergoing its largest self-funded investment with a new paintshop announced in April 2025, and a new Tech Center announced in September last year, transforming into a carbon-neutral “Dream Factory” with updated design, paint, and assembly facilities tailored to electric production.
Images: Bentley Motors
