RAC calls for government intervention on fuel prices

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May 8, 2024

Petrol and diesel prices have risen by 10p a litre since the start of 2024 – typically adding £5.50 to the cost of a tank of fuel.

That’s according to the RAC, which said the cost of unleaded petrol and diesel increased by 3p and 2p per litre respectively in April. The breakdown organisation also said filling a typical petrol car with a 55-litre tank now costs £82.47. The cost for a similar diesel vehicle is £86.77.

The lowest prices for petrol and diesel in 2024 so far were both recorded on 16 January.

Calling for government intervention

The RAC claims the increase in fuel prices at the pump is ‘weighing heavily on household budgets’ and it called on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to help motorists save money.

According to the RAC, fuel retailers have ‘unfair margins’ that ‘lead to drivers getting a raw deal’. The CMA estimates that UK drivers were effectively overcharged by around £900 million in 2022.

Diesel profit margins increased by 6p last month to 18p per litre, says the RAC, while the average margin now stands at 9.5p per litre.

Responding to this claim, Gordon Balmer, executive director of the Petrol Retailers Association, said fuel stations are “operating on razor-thin margins” and are doing “all they can to keep prices low for their customers”.

RAC versus the fuel industry

Taking aim at the RAC, Balmer added: “It is disappointing that we are constantly having to devote time and resources to correcting the inaccurate narrative offered by some commentators about pump price increases. We are doing all we can through the appropriate policy channels to address this issue, while others would prefer to offer criticism without taking the time to understand how the industry works.”

If the CMA and government were to intervene as requested, the RAC says fuel prices across the UK mainland could come down to match those charged in Northern Ireland, which are ‘consistently 5p a litre (£2.50 a tank) lower’. It also blamed higher diesel prices on retailers using larger margins to subsidise the cost of unleaded.

“It is very apparent that retailers are making massive margins on diesel. To put this into perspective, the wholesale price of diesel has been lower than petrol since the middle of April, yet diesel is nearly 8p a litre dearer at the pump,” said RAC fuel spokesperson, Simon Williams. “If retailers were treating drivers fairly, this gap would be starting to close instead of getting wider.”

The CMA declined to comment when approached by Motoring Research. However, in late March it issued a report stating that high fuel margins are ‘concerning’ for motorists and ‘indicated weakened competition.’

“We’ve been clear that retailers must pass fuel savings to drivers – and that’s why we are making sure there is no place to hide for anyone found to be unfairly hiking up their pump prices,” a Department for Energy Security and Net Zero spokesperson told us.

“Our new Pumpwatch scheme will help drivers find the best deal at the pump, by making real-time price sharing mandatory. We’re also taking action to bring competition back to the forecourts with new powers for the CMA to shine a light on any attempt to overcharge UK drivers.”

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Bentley unwraps ultra-exclusive 750hp Batur Convertible

By

John Redfern

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May 8, 2024

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A new coachbuilt Bentley by Mulliner has been revealed, with plans for a very limited production run.

The latest bespoke Bentley is the Batur Convertible, a open-air derivative of the Batur coupe launched in 2023.

It joins the Mulliner-designed Bacalar as the third coachbuilt model based on the current Bentley Continental GT platform.

Coachbuilt glamour

The Batur Convertible is a true roadster, with only two seats and a retractable fabric roof. Bentley says the roof can be opened in 19 seconds, and at speeds up to 30mph.

Mulliner’s designers have opted for a wraparound cockpit layout, emphasising the two-seat nature of the Batur Convertible.

A dramatic ‘airbridge’ sits behind the driver and passenger, along with barchetta-style humps on the rear deck. The latter offer a practical purpose, too, with luggage space available underneath.

Infinite options for personalisation

Production of the Batur Convertible will be limited to just 16 examples. The Mulliner design team will work with customers to ensure each car is unique.

Bentley says paint colour choices are infinite, with custom graphics also available. Exterior details such as the front grille can be finished in light or dark trim, along with titanium.

Inside, customers can specify even more personalisation, including the exclusive option of 3D-printed rose gold. The material can be used for the engine start button and drive mode selector, with both parts hand-crafted by goldsmiths in the historic Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham.

Celebrating the W12 engine

Powering the Batur Convertible will be a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 – one of the final outings for this long-serving engine.

Assembled by hand, it produces 750hp and 738lb ft of torque, and is matched with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

As a crowning glory, the Bentley’s entire sports exhaust system is 3D-printed from titanium.

Bentley has not revealed prices for the Batur Convertible. However, the coupe version of the Batur started from £2 million, so expect this open model to be even pricier.

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Beautiful Mercedes-Benz SL ‘Pagoda’ goes electric for £400k

By

John Redfern

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May 8, 2024

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Meet the latest classic car to go electric. Best known for converting the Porsche 911 to battery power, Everrati has turned its attention to the ‘W113’ Mercedes-Benz SL.

Known as the ‘Pagoda’ due to the shape of its hard-top roof, the W113 was built between 1963 and 1971, and attracted a host of celebrity owners. The late Sir Stirling Moss was a fan, clearly drawn to the SL’s timeless styling and effortless performance.

Now, Everrati has given the classic Mercedes a modern makeover, with two electric powertrain options on offer, plus the potential for extensive customisation.

A concours-standard restoration

Everrati starts by comprehensively restoring an SL Pagoda to concours standard, with all work undertaken by hand.

The British company has aimed to keep overall weight and weight distribution as close to the original car as possible. The electric conversion is also completely reversible, should the owner change his or her mind in future.

Standard versions of the Everrati Pagoda come equipped with a 54.4kWh battery pack, allowing a range of 160 miles when fully charged. Accelerating from 0-60mph takes less than 8.0 seconds.

For maximum performance, a larger 68kWh battery can be specified. This boosts the maximum range to more than 200 miles, also cutting the 0-60mph time to less than 7.0 seconds.

Driving with one pedal

Maximum power peaks at 300hp regardless of battery option chosen, with a limited-slip differential fitted as standard. The OEM-standard electric powertrain supports AC and DC fast charging, while one-pedal driving provides a modern EV experience.

The interior of the Everrati Pagoda can be finished in low-carbon leather supplied by Bridge of Weir. Buyers can also choose leather hides similar to those used when the SL was first launched.

Custom designed dials are found on the dashboard, with options including a Bluetooth audio system and heated seats.

A future-proofed classic car

Prices to commission an Everrati Pagoda SL start from £330,000 plus taxes (£399,600 including VAT), with the donor car at extra cost.

Everrati CEO Justin Lunny said: “Our redefined electric Mercedes-Benz SL ‘Pagoda’ is the new benchmark for understated, sustainable luxury. This meticulously restored and redefined car is the ultimate two-seater electric luxury grand tourer, a unique proposition that pays homage to the history of the legendary SL, yet is fully future-proofed, enabling it to be enjoyed today – and in the hands of the next generation tomorrow.”

Motoring Research will be driving the electrified Everrati Pagoda soon, so watch this space.

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Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II: super-luxury SUV gets a new look

By

John Redfern

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May 7, 2024

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A revised version of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan has been revealed. The new Series II aims to maintain the Cullinan’s status as the world’s most luxurious SUV.

As the best-selling model in the Rolls-Royce range, this is a vital car for the Goodwood-based company. Along with an updated exterior, the 2024 Cullinan features a number of changes inside its cabin, plus an array of bespoke options for customisation.

The Cullinan Series II will offer a performance-orientated Black Badge version from the outset, too.

Nip and tuck for the Cullinan

Although the Cullinan Series II looks similar to its predecessor, there are numerous subtle changes to its styling. Its daytime running lights now extend down to the front bumper, which itself has a new design – said to be inspired by the bow of a yacht.

The Series II also marks the first time the Cullinan has received Rolls-Royce’s illuminated ‘Pantheon’ front grille, which looks particularly dramatic at night. Gloss black trim is added to the rear bumper of the Cullinan, while its exhaust tailpipes are surrounded by mirror-finish trim.

New 23-inch alloy wheels are available, along with a new paint colour created specifically for the Cullinan Series II. Emperador Truffle is a minimalist grey-brown hue, said to be inspired by richly-veined brown marble.

Spirit of technology

Rolls-Royce says its ‘patrons’ have asked for more customisation options – and the Cullinan Series II certainly delivers. Central to the changes is the full-width glass fascia panel across the dashboard, which incorporates the display for the BMW-based infotainment system.

An updated digital instrument panel is also present, now with a permanently visible central information screen. This makes use of the Rolls-Royce SPIRIT operating system: the first V12-powered model to do so.

SPIRIT allows drivers to adjust the colour of the digital panel, and connects directly with the Whispers smartphone app for Rolls-Royce owners.

Two mobile devices can be connected to the rear screens to stream videos, with 18 speakers to provide the sound. The audio system uses cavities in the Cullinan’s chassis as resonance chambers, effectively turning the car into a giant subwoofer.

Inside the Cullinan Series II

An illuminated fascia panel can also be specified on the Cullinan’s dashboard for the first time. This features the model name and cityscape-inspired graphic, created by 7,000 laser-etched dots.

Rolls-Royce has also fitted a new Spirit of Ecstasy clock cabinet, with an analogue display and an uplit figurine. New interior trim choices include Grey Stained Ash wood finished with hand-stained ‘leaves’.

A new-for-2024 fabric called Duality Twill is made from natural bamboo fibres and took more than a year to develop. Finishing a complete Cullinan Series II interior with this textile requires 2.2 million stitches, and takes more than 20 hours.

V12 engine with up to 600hp

Rolls-Royce has carried over the existing twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 engine, which produces up to 600hp in the Cullinan Black Badge. With 90 percent of Cullinans now driven by their owners – rather than solely by a chauffeur – an engaging experience was said to be a priority.

Chris Brownridge, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented: “In 2018, Cullinan reframed super-luxury motoring, enabling Rolls-Royce clients to experience the brand’s hallmark magic carpet ride regardless of the terrain and in every corner of the world.

“In the six years since, Cullinan has attracted entirely new groups of clients to Rolls-Royce and profoundly altered perceptions of what a Rolls-Royce motor car is, and what it can mean to its owner.”

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What is checked in a car MOT test?

By

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

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May 5, 2024

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The MOT is a legal requirement for all cars aged over three years old. And around 40 percent of cars fail the test at the first attempt.

Data shows that half of all faults could be prevented by carrying out some simple checks before the MOT test. For example, 30 percent of the faults found relate to lights and indicators.

It pays to give your car a once-over before you send it to be tested. Although you won’t be able to fix everything at home, you’ll give it the best chance of passing first time.

The MOT test is a series of checks to ensure that your car is safe to drive and meets the current legal standards. Bear in mind that it doesn’t cover the condition of the engine, clutch and gearbox. It’s also not a replacement for having your car serviced.

Car parts checked in the MOT

This image provided by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is a good place to start. It provides a visual reminder of the things you should consider in the weeks leading up to the MOT test.

Beyond that, you need to pay close attention to the following parts and features of your car:

Interior MOT checks

Seats

The driver’s seat must be adjustable, while all seats must be securely fitted with the seat backs in the upright position.

Seatbelts

Seatbelts must be in place, suitable for the vehicle, working properly and attached securely. The tester will also check the airbag, seatbelt pretensioner and seatbelt load-limiter warning lights.

Warning lights

The tester will check if any key warning lights are permanently illuminated. This includes for power steering, airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), low tyre pressure and the engine ECU warning light. Our guide explains what every car dashboard warning light means.

Wipers and washers

The driver must have a clear view of the road: the condition of the wipers will be checked, and the operation of the wipers. Some cars have been known to fail for having an empty washer bottle…

Brakes

The brakes must pass an efficiency test, while the anti-locking braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) must function (where fitted). The ABS, ESC, handbrake and brake fluid lights will also be checked.

Horn

The horn must work and be suitable for the vehicle.

Exterior MOT checks

Registration plates

The number plates must be in good condition, secured to the vehicle and be of the right colour, with characters correctly formed and spaced.

Lights

All lights must be working and in good condition. The headlights will also be checked for aim and the main beam warning light must be working.

Tyres and wheels

The tyres must be of the right size and type, have the minimum tread depth, and be in good condition. The tyre pressure monitoring system must be working on cars registered on or after 1 January 2012.

Windscreen

The windscreen will be checked for condition. The driver must have a clear view of the road.

Mirrors

Check the condition and security of the mirrors.

Doors

Check that the latches secure in the closed position, the front doors open from the inside and outside, and the rear doors open from the outside. Also check the condition of the hinges.

Bonnet

The car’s bonnet must close securely.

Tow bars

The tow bar will be inspected for security, condition and any inappropriate repairs. Make sure the 13-pin electrical socket is working correctly.

Body and vehicle structure

Make sure the body and structure are free from excessive corrosion or damage. Any sharp edges are likely to result in a fail.

Other MOT checks

Fuel system

The fuel system will be inspected to check for leaks and that the pipes and hoses are secure. Also make sure the fuel cap fastens and secures – and don’t forget to supply a key (if necessary).

Exhaust emissions

Emissions-related test failures have increased hugely since an overhaul of the MOT test in 2018. Diesel vehicles are at the greatest risk of failure.

Exhaust system

The exhaust system must be secure and complete, the catalyst must be in place, and there shouldn’t be any serious leaks.

Steering and suspension

These elements will be checked for their condition, the steering oil level, inappropriate repairs or modifications, corrosion to pipes and hoses, and the steering lock.

Vehicle identification number (VIN)

The VIN will be checked on vehicles first used on or after 1 April 1980. Some multi-stage build vehicles are exempt.

Click here for more MOT information from the official GOV.UK website, including how to book a test.

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Cupra unveils bold new look for sporty Leon and Formentor

By

John Redfern

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May 3, 2024

0

Cupra has announced an upgraded version of the Leon hot hatchback, featuring its new corporate look.

The sporty offshoot from Seat has also applied the new styling to its Formentor SUV – said to ‘embrace the brand’s new design language’.

Styling inspiration comes in part from the electric Cupra Born, as the company aims to build on a successful 2023.

Last year, Cupra delivered 230,000 cars in total, with the Formentor accounting for 121,000 of those sales alone. Sales of the SUV were up 23 percent compared to 2022.

Less button bashing

The new Cupra styling for the Leon hatchback and Sportstourer estate will help differentiate them further from the Seat versions. The Formentor gets the same treatment, too.

It certainly looks distinctive, with triangular Matrix LED headlights and a wide lower air intake. An illuminated Cupra logo is found at the rear, plus there are new Century Bronze and Enceladus Grey matt paint colours.

The Cupra model update is more than just skin deep, though. Both the Leon and Formentor SUV have fresh engine options, along with tweaks to their infotainment systems.

Perhaps stung by the constant criticism of its infotainment system, Cupra has given the Leon and Formentor a new 12.9-inch display screen. There are no buttons, as before, but the slider controls are now backlit.

Eco-conscious performance

New materials have been used inside, aiming to give the Cupra brand improved environmental credentials. The sports seats now come with a choice of eco-conscious leather or microfibre upholstery, the latter made from 73 percent recycled fibres

Cupra has enhanced the plug-in hybrid powertrain option, with the eHybrid version now serving up 272hp. Compatible with 50kW fast-charging, the PHEV Leon and Formentor models can now cover up to 62 miles on battery power alone.

A range-topping version of the Formentor and Leon Sportstourer offers a new 333hp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It also features a torque splitter – creating the potential for drifting action – and hardcore Akebono brakes for good measure.

Automotive emotion

“The Cupra Formentor and Leon have both been a driving force in the brand’s success as it expands its footprint around the world. It’s an approach that has been incredibly successful with close to 600,000 cars delivered since the brand’s launch in 2018,” said Wayne Griffiths, CEO of Cupra.

“The new Cupra Formentor and Leon are pure design obsession,” Griffiths added. “Two models built to provoke strong emotions and that strengthen the extraordinary bond with our tribe. Two models that represent what that small group of believers envisaged Cupra could be just a few years ago.”

Cupra is yet to confirm UK prices or final specifications for the updated Leon and Formentor. Expect more details to be announced before the first cars arrive this summer.

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Kia offers free sessions to educate drivers about EVs

By

Daniel Puddicombe

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May 2, 2024

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Kia has launched free one-to-one advice sessions in a bid to educate motorists about electric cars.

The Korean manufacturer says the personalised workshops, available to book across its UK dealer network, will help drivers to understand the transition from fossil-fuelled vehicles to EVs. Among other topics, they will cover the differences in driving an electric car, understanding range and charging times.

Kia has launched an online myth-busting guide to electric vehicles, which covers the different powertrains available, the benefits of running an EV, battery life and using the public charging network.

Why Kia wants to educate us about EVs

You could be forgiven for thinking there is something of an ulterior motive behind Kia’s efforts here. And you’d probably be right.

By 2027, the company aims to have nine different electric vehicles on sale in the UK as part of a wider plan to launch 15 globally in total over six years. However, Sanka De Silva, marketing director at Kia UK, said there aren’t any sales pitches involved in the training.

“Education is vital for customers to successfully transition to electric and we want to give something back to communities and help people understand EVs,” said De Silva. “There is no sales pitch here, it is simply our way of starting a conversation, and sharing information and knowledge.”

At the moment, Kia’s range of electric cars consists of the EV9 – which won the World Car of the Year trophy last month – EV6, Niro and Soul.

‘Expert advice’ on going electric

“As with any car and powertrain, it is crucial to understand them to get the most from them,” added De Silva. “With some people nervous about EVs, we felt that the right thing to do would be to offer our expert advice so they can find out how easily an EV can fit in people’s lifestyles.

“From a complete beginner to the EV world to someone looking to buy their first EV, if you have questions about going electric, the Discover EV events offer the perfect opportunity to get answers.”

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EV network Plugsurfing launches Apple CarPlay charging app

By

Daniel Puddicombe

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May 2, 2024

0

Plugsurfing has updated its iPhone app to offer Apple CarPlay integration – meaning drivers can now edit planned routes and transfer them to a navigation app without needing to touch their smartphone.

Additionally, motorists can view a map of nearby public EV charging points, including real-time availability, pricing details, power output and supported plug types as they travel. It’s also possible to filter by type of charging point.

According to Plugsurfing, three-quarters of its users access the app via an iPhone. The company says CarPlay capability will be a ‘welcome addition to a huge number of EV drivers’.

Improving EV safety

There is a potential safety benefit, too. Using a smartphone while driving is an obvious hazard – not to mention illegal.

With the app being ported onto a car’s infotainment screen, drivers can use voice commands or buttons on the steering wheel to control it.

There are limitations, though: the CarPlay version doesn’t allow motorists to enter a new destination and create a new route, nor can drivers launch a charging session.

Plugsurfing said it deliberately disabled these options from the CarPlay system to make the app as easy as possible to use while driving – and to ‘keep it light and not overload it with features’.

Plugsurfing deal with Polestar

In March, Swedish brand Polestar announced a new service together with Plugsurfing, called Polestar Charge. It offers access to 650,000 EV charging points across Europe; the largest network on the continent according to both companies.

Polestar says the service reduces the need to have subscriptions, apps or charging tags. Its cars also use an EV optimisation tool within Google Maps, helping drivers plan optimal charging stops along their route.

“With access to the largest networks in Europe and smart integration in Google Maps, we have made it easy for Polestar drivers to enjoy life with an electric car rather than worrying about where they will find their next charge,” said Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar.

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One-off amphibious TVR Scamander to headline London Concours 2024

By

Daniel Puddicombe

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May 1, 2024

0

A one-off amphibious TVR that has been mothballed since 2012 is to headline this year’s London Concours in June.

The Scamander was the brainchild of former TVR boss Peter Wheeler. It features three seats nestled beneath a sliding canopy and an elongated body inspired by a boat hull and an aircraft fuselage.

Powered by a 275hp Ford V6 engine, the functioning prototype is the only example in existence and has been recommissioned after laying dormant for 12 years.

Unique cars on the concours lawn

The theme of this year’s London Concours – which runs from 4-6 June at The Honourable Artillery Company, close to Liverpool Street station – is ‘wildcards’. These are vehicles that wouldn’t fit in traditional categories at concours events.

Another car being shown alongside the waterborne TVR is a 1958 Mercedes-Benz 220S ‘Ponton’ Cabriolet. It introduced a different design direction for the German marque, with its pontoon-like sides heralding the end of the separate wings seen previously.

The ‘Ponton’ also marked the start of unitary body construction at Mercedes-Benz, setting a new standard for structural integrity and design innovation.

One more must-see at London Concours is another car that doubles up as a boat: the 1976 Lotus Esprit immortalised by its appearance in the James Bond film, ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’.

Tickets for the event, which has been running since 2012, are on sale now and priced from £35.

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Bentley Bentayga Apex Edition stakes claim as the ultimate SUV

By

John Redfern

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May 1, 2024

0

A new series of Bentley Bentayga special editions has been announced, with a focus on performance and personalisation.

The Apex Edition is the latest addition to the Bentayga range. The luxury SUV features sportier styling, plus plenty of carbon fibre components.

Bentley’s bespoke Mulliner department has created six themes for the Bentayga Apex Edition, ranging from subtle to extravagant. Alternatively, customers can opt for a completely bespoke car, tailored to their individual taste (or lack of, potentially).

There is also a special Le Mans-inspired colour scheme available, with sales limited solely to those who already own a Bentley Continental GT or GTC Le Mans Edition.

Carbon captured

Being based on the Bentayga S V8 means the Apex Edition can muster a substantial 542hp and 568lb ft of torque. The headline numbers are 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 180mph.

Bentley has added a set of Mulliner 22-inch alloy wheels, crafted from lightweight carbon fibre, which reduce unsprung mass by a considerable 24kg. They are also said to improve steering response and even reduce tyre wear.

Carbon ceramic brakes are also fitted as standard, shaving another 20kg from the Bentayga’s kerb weight.

More carbon is used for the front splitter, rear spoiler, side sills and door mirror caps, along with on the dashboard. Completing the package, carbon Apex Edition badges can be found on the Bentayga’s rear pillars.

Go as bold as you like

Of the six Mulliner-created themes, the one pictured here is the first choice on Bentley’s list.

Providing an example of what is possible, it combines bold Candy Red exterior paintwork with an Anthracite body stripe. The latter is highlighted by Arctic White pinstripes.

On the inside, Arctic White and Hotspur leather upholstery are used throughout the cabin. More Arctic White features as the contrast stitching, seat piping and around the carbon fibre dashboard trim.

Owners of the Le Mans Edition Continental models can have their Apex Edition finished in Verdant Green, with a contrasting Moonbeam racing stripe.

The sky is the limit

Production of the Bentayga Apex Edition is limited to just 20 examples worldwide. Customers will be encouraged to work with the bespoke Mulliner team, helping craft their perfect specification for the luxury SUV.

Given the level of customisation on offer, Bentley has not released prices for the Apex Edition. As a guide, however, the standard V8-powered Bentayga S starts from just over £200,000.

We suspect those considering a unique Bentayga will be limited only by their imagination, rather than by their bank balance.

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