January 7, 2022: -Bentley Motors sold a record number of its luxury sedans and SUVs in the previous year as much of the mainstream automotive industry struggled with supply chain issues, the 102-year-old carmaker said on Thursday.

The Volkswagen-owned company reported sales of 14,659 vehicles in the previous year, a 31% increase more than the company’s previous sales record of 11,206 cars and SUVs in 2020.

Bentley attributes the sales success to recent models, including hybrids, and the company’s “Beyond 100” business plan, including transitioning the famed carmaker to be fully electric by 2030.

“2021 was yet one more year of unpredictability though I am delighted to be able to confirm that we overcame significant headwinds and delivered a breakthrough in our sales performance,” Bentley CEO Adrian Hallmark said in a release. “This is the second record sales year in the successive years and is a positive sign of our brand strength, operational excellence, strong global demand, and affirmation of our strategic priorities.”

Sales in the Americas increased by 39% and remained Bentley’s top market in 2021, while sales in China surged 40%. Sales in other markets such as Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East increased.

Bentley sells some of the most expensive and rare cars in the world. Its entry-level SUV, the Bentayga, starts at over $180,000, while its exclusive “coachbuilt” models like the Mulliner Bacalar sell for $2 million.

Bentley’s record sales occurred while much of the global automotive industry struggled with supply chain issues.