2 minute read
Production of new Bentley Bentayga begins
Production of Bentley’s recently updated Bentayga SUV has commenced at the carmaker’s carbon neutral factory in Crewe. In addition, a comprehensive review of social distancing measures in place at the plant has allowed Bentley to increase its production output from 50 per cent to 100 per cent.
A small number of assembly areas have been redesigned implementing a revised takt time whilst enabling a controlled, safe working environment at a social distance of more than one-metre. All other areas will maintain a strict social distance of two-metres and mandatory facemasks will remain throughout the factory.
Production of the new Bentayga is now underway in Crewe / Picture: Bentley Motors
Over 100 colleagues work on the socially-distanced Bentayga production line, as the car progresses through 43 stages of manufacture.
Peter Bosch, member of the board for manufacturing at Bentley Motors, said: “The new Bentayga is a celebration of all that we can do in Crewe and is a testament to the skill, passion and dedication of all of our colleagues who produce cars unmatched by any other car factory in the world. To deliver a sector-defining car that meets our own and customers incredibly high standards and expectations is a significant achievement, particularly at this early stage of production.
“In the lead up to manufacture commencing we reviewed each individual process to ensure its efficiency and effectiveness, implementing industry-leading lean techniques with social distancing measures included. What we are seeing at start of production is a car that is significantly revised, both inside and out, and yet reaching record quality in manufacture levels across the industry. Raising the bar again as the sector-defining luxury SUV.”
Production output has increased to 100% at Bentley’s carbon neutral factory in Crewe / Picture: Bentley Motors
This transformation of the build process allowed even greater lean manufacturing principles to be adopted. Over 1,500 manufacturing colleagues have undertaken education programmes in lean principles maximising value to customers while reducing waste in manufacture. Changes include improved ergonomics, safer processes and reduced walking and waiting times due to repositioning and movement of parts.
The new Bentayga is set to build on the popularity of the first generation model of which more than 20,000 examples have now been handcrafted. The first customer deliveries are set to commence shortly.