Bentley Motors, a renowned British luxury car manufacturer, has a rich history spanning over a century. One of the most distinctive and recognizable aspects of Bentley’s identity is its iconic logo. In this article, we delve into Bentley logo meaning, history and evolution, tracing its origins and exploring the intricate design elements that have made it an enduring symbol of automotive excellence.
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Bentley Logo PNG
Bentley Motors Information
| Founded | 1919 |
| Founder | Horace Millner Bentley Walter Owen Bentley |
| Logo creator | Frederick Gordon-Crosby |
| Headquarters | Crewe, England |
| Official website | www.bentleymotors.com |
| Owner | Volkswagen Group |
Bentley Logo – The Birth of a Legacy
The Bentley car logo originated in 1919 when Walter Owen Bentley founded the company. Better known as Walter Owen, he made his name first as a motorcycle and car racer and then as a skilled designer of aircraft and automobile engines.
The Bentley logo, however, was the work of motoring artist and sculptor F. Gordon Crosby who is also credited with creating Jaguar logo.
Bentley Logo Meaning – The Birth of a Legacy
The first iteration of the logo featured a simple, elegant design comprising stylized wings. These wings represented speed, freedom, and the brand’s dedication to manufacturing exceptional automobiles. The highlight of the logo is the ‘B’ of Bentley emblazoned right at the center of the wings in a circle. The letter ‘B’ was elegantly integrated, serving as a testament to Bentley’s commitment to luxury and prestige. Naturally, the wings are a reference to Bentley’s earlier work in aircraft.
Bentley Symbol Evolution – Asymmetry at the Core
While Bentley logo meaning may be associated with speed, freedom and the company’s association with aviation, it also has a trick up its sleeve. It may not be visible to a casual eye but the brand used a clever trick to differentiate its mass-market cars from the ones designed for its more affluent customers. When it came to ultra-premium cars or racing cars, the number of feathers on the right was kept at 11 while the left side had only 10 hackles. It also helped that this asymmetry was considered auspicious by brand owners as well as buyers.
On the other hand, a wide majority of its lesser-priced cars featured a symmetrical logo with 10 feathers on either side.
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The Flying B Rolls In
Sometime later, Bentley introduced an ornate version solely to be used as a hood ornament. This version featured a forward-leaning ‘B’ complete with a pair of wings flowing backward. The Flying B ornament was also created by F. Gordon Crosby. It was discontinued in the decade of 1970 when solid hood accessories were considered unsafe. It was eventually restored in 2006 as a retractable ornament.
Transfer to Rolls-Royce
In 1931, Bentley faced financial challenges, leading to its acquisition by Rolls-Royce. During this period, the Bentley logo continued to be used but with a subtle modification. The wings of the Bentley insignia were made symmetrical with 10 feathers on either side for all models, thus losing the signature asymmetry. However, this change was rolled back in the 1990s and the original design was reintroduced.
Simplification and Modernization
Throughout the decades following its introduction, the Bentley logo underwent several modifications to adapt to the changing design trends. Nevertheless, the major design elements of the emblem including the signature ‘B’, and wings have retained their originality and the latest iteration of the logo isn’t very different from the original one.
The Present-Day Emblem
In recent years, the Bentley logo has reached its current iteration, which embodies the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity. The logo features a sleek, three-dimensional design, showcasing a sense of depth and sophistication. The wings maintain their iconic shape but are enhanced with intricate detailing, exemplifying Bentley’s unwavering commitment to precision craftsmanship.
Symbolism and Significance
The Bentley logo holds deep symbolism and significance. The wings symbolize speed, elegance, and the pursuit of excellence. They are a visual representation of the brand’s remarkable heritage and the exhilarating driving experience offered by Bentley vehicles. The circular shape represents unity, continuity, and the brand’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.
Bentley Car Logo = Timeless Appeal
One of the reasons the Bentley logo has stood the test of time is its timeless appeal. The design embodies a sense of luxury and sophistication that resonates with discerning car enthusiasts worldwide. The logo’s versatility allows it to seamlessly integrate into various marketing materials, from car badges to advertising campaigns, establishing a consistent and powerful brand image.
That the Bentley logo on car is a timeless classic is proven by the fact that more recent brands such as Genesis have taken inspiration from it. It is also worth highlighting that Hyundai hired Luc Donckerwolke from Bentley for its Genesis brand.
In conclusion, the Bentley car logo is a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation. Bentley logo history and evolution over the last 100 years has reflected the changing design trends while preserving the essence of Bentley’s rich heritage. The logo’s iconic wings and elegant letter ‘B’ symbolize the brand’s dedication to producing luxurious, high-performance vehicles. Through its timeless appeal and meticulous attention to detail, the Bentley logo continues to captivate the hearts of automotive enthusiasts across the globe.