Bentley says access to Europe is important, will make investment decision soon

Volkswagen-owned British car brand Bentley is scheduled to make its next significant investment decision on a new model around the beginning of next year and unfettered access to Europe is vitally essential, its boss informed.

Bentley, which constructs its entire range of luxury models at its location in Crewe in central England, said more than 20 percent of sales are generated from Europe, which is set to become its largest market in 2017.

Tariff-free access to Europe for goods and visa-free travel for its staff are essential, Chief Executive Wolfgang Duerheimer informed Reuters, and the firm was presntly having talks with British officials regarding Brexit.

“I got about nine to 12 months where I can wait and see what’s going take place and after that I need to take serious decisions. It’s all related to future models,” he stated during an interview at the Geneva Motor Show.

“This gives us a bit of breathing space, and also the government, however then I need to have clear commitments.”

Since Prime Minister Theresa May stated the UK will leave the single market and could also stop the customs union when it exits the European Union, automakers have become increasingly concerned regarding potential trade barriers.

Theresa May is due to trigger Article 50 by this month, setting up two years of negotiations resulting in Britain’s exit from the European Union.

Bentley has formerly constructed some models outside UK at a site in Dresden located in eastern Germany to increase capacity.