Dubai, 26 January, 2009 09:00 BST: Bentley Motors has announced that Al Habtoor - Bentley Emirates, sold a record number of cars in 2008 and increased on their sales performance for 2007 by 35%.

This dedicated sales effort, accelerated them to the number one position worldwide.

December was also a record month for Bentley in the region, representing 16% of the total sales for the year.

Chris Buxton, Regional Director for the Middle East, Africa and India region said "We are extremely proud to be showing such strong growth in the region at a time when the credit crisis is affecting so many other markets, and we congratulate Al Habtoor - Bentley Emirates on their amazing performance for the year. With a strong model mix and currency exchange rates in favour for the Middle East customer, we hope this growth will be sustained in 2009."

Al Habtoor Motors have held the franchise for Bentley since 1980 and currently have dealerships in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A new and exclusive designer showroom is planned to be opened in the Marina area of Dubai later this year and in May 2009, a 'state of the art' aftersales facility is also to open in Abu Dhabi. This will enable Al Habtoor Motors - Bentley Emirates to make their customer service a world class standard too.

Sultan Al Habtoor of Al Habtoor Motors commented, "Our partnership with Bentley has grown from strength to strength and we are proud to represent this respected British marque. The introduction of the Continental Flying Spur Speed to the already successful Continental range has created an increasing desire for Bentley in the Middle East and I look forward to an equally successful 2009".

The overall performance for the Bentley Middle East, Africa and India region increased by 18% and in the Middle East, the Company saw a 24% increase on our 2007 performance.

Al Habtoor Motors - Bentley Emirates, have also been the most successful dealer worldwide for sales of the Bentley Brooklands. The Continental Flying Spur, and it's latest stablemate, the Continental Flying Spur Speed took the lions share of the volume in the region. With the Continental GTC Speed, about to arrive in the Middle East in July 2009, the future looks very good for Bentley.

-Ends-

For further enquiries:
Janice Hinson, Marketing & PR Manager Middle East, Africa & India
Tel: +44 1270 535318         
Mobile: +44 7740 022630
E-mail: Janice.hinson@bentley.co.uk

© Press Release 2009