These sales were well-balanced between the luxury brand’s three model lines, Bentayga (2,767), Continental GT (2,318) and Flying Spur (2,063).

The Bentayga maintained the number one model position as full market availability was reached for the first time. Meanwhile, the market launch of Flying Spur in China, now Bentley’s biggest sales region, contributed to the model line’s share of 29 percent of global sales further helped by the addition of the V8 engine.

Bentley’s global footprint became more evenly balanced across its four market regions. China (2,155) was Bentley’s biggest selling market for the first time in nearly a decade. The Americas (2,049) followed closely behind with Europe also performing strongly, delivering 1,142 cars. Both markets eagerly anticipate the arrival of GT Speed and Bentayga S in the coming months. Asia Pacific retailed 778 cars, with Bentley’s home market, the UK contributing 554, marginally ahead of the Middle East, Africa and India on 521.

This year will also mark Bentley’s biggest year of new model introductions, with nine product debuts, two of which introduce hybrid power in the form of the Bentayga Hybrid and Flying Spur Hybrid, supporting Bentley’s ‘Beyond100’ path to full electrification.

However, the positivity is clouded by a continued uncertainty which could negatively impact the second half of the year. The increasing COVID-19 numbers in many parts of the world could threaten future production in the worst-case, or see further retail restrictions posing both a sales and financial risk to forecasts.