Tiny Big Bentley moves into manufacturing phase
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Hedley Studios, formerly known as The Little Car Company, unveils the Bentley Blower Jnr. This 85% scale, electric, road-legal replica of the 1929 Bentley Blower is a testament to the enduring charm of the original, and a tribute to the rich history of Bentley Motors.
At approximately 3.7 meters long and 1.5 meters wide, the Bentley Blower Jnr is roughly the size of a Suzuki Ignis. Despite its compact size, it is designed for the road, offering a driving experience that harks back to the golden age of motoring.
The design of the Bentley Blower Jnr is a meticulous recreation of the original, with the bodywork crafted in two sections. The rear body structure is made of carbon fibre and covered in impregnated fabric, while the bonnet is hand-crafted in aluminium using traditional techniques and fastened with leather buckled bonnet straps. The switchgear for the headlights and indicators copies the form and material of the magneto switches from the original car.
Under the hood, the Bentley Blower Jnr is powered by a 48V electric powertrain with a 15kW motor. The electric motor is mounted across the rear axle, while the batteries and drive electronics are housed in a hidden undertray. This setup provides a top speed of over 70km/h in the UK and EU, but is restricted to 40km/h in the USA.
The drive mode selector is a repurposed fuel pressurisation hand pump, offering options for Comfort, Bentley, or Sport modes. The battery charge gauge recreates the original ammeter, providing a vintage touch to the modern electric powertrain.
The suspension of the Bentley Blower Jnr features leaf springs and scaled-down, period-correct friction dampers. Brembo disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear ensure reliable stopping power. The 'fuel tank' of the Bentley Blower Jnr is now a storage compartment with a lockable latch, offering practicality alongside the nostalgic appeal.
The selection of Forward, Neutral, and Reverse is done via a lever resembling the ignition advance control from the original Blower. The charging port for the Bentley Blower Jnr is located at the front of the car, where the supercharger is placed in the original design.
Hedley Studios works closely with each client to create a bespoke Bentley Blower Jnr. From specific color finishes to a choice of racing numbers, each car is a unique reflection of its owner's personality. The Bentley Blower Jnr's two-person cockpit follows a 1+1 layout, with a central adjustable driving position and a passenger seat located in the rear.
The production of the Bentley Blower Jnr is a significant moment for Hedley Studios, with the first customer deliveries expected to commence in just a few months. The price of the Bentley Blower Jnr, developed in collaboration with Bentley Motors' Heritage Collection, is approximately $115,000. The original 1929 Bentley Blower, insured for NZ$56 million, was used as a reference for the design of the Bentley Blower Jnr.
Ben Hedley, CEO and Founder of Hedley Studios, stated, 'The production of the Bentley Blower Jnr marks a significant moment for our brand. We are thrilled to bring this iconic car back to life in a modern, electric form, and we look forward to delivering these unique vehicles to our customers.'
In addition to the Bentley Blower Jnr, Hedley Studios offers an optional bespoke weekend bag that fits into the storage compartment. This added touch of luxury makes the Bentley Blower Jnr not just a car, but a complete lifestyle statement.
The Bentley Blower Jnr is a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring appeal of classic design. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of craftsmanship, the Bentley Blower Jnr is a must-see for any automotive aficionado.
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