Bentley could be under Audi’s control

The Bentley Continental GT has been a success for the brand. Photo: Hamish Pattison

Bentley is rumoured to be falling under full control of its sister brand Audi from 2021, in an effort to further streamline costs and efficiencies.  

This would see Audi taking over financial and technological initiatives. Already Audi is responsible for Bentley's research and development activities. 

Bentley has been doing well with the Continental GT, Bentayga SUV and the new Flying Spur, driving renewed market interest to its profits. However, the spectre of a no-deal Brexit could significantly dint Bentley's profitability by more than 25 per cent, according to Bentley CEO Adrian Hallmark.   

Bentley returned to profit last year but will probably still lose money this year because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, Hallmark told Automotive News Europe in June.

Audi and Porsche's Premium Platform Electric (PPE) could be used on future Continental GT and Flying Spur models that will start development releases later this decade.