Bentley is constantly seeking new ways to enhance the comfort and well-being of its passengers. With the development of the world’s first Airline Seat Specification – now available across all Bentley models – the British automaker has set a new benchmark for personalized support and luxury. To achieve this, Bentley collaborated with a chiropractor specializing in clients who experience discomfort during long car journeys.
Text by Anja Van Der Borght
Following the first Riviera Collection of the Continental GTC, launched in 2022, the new Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection reinterprets the long-wheelbase Bentley Bentayga in a way that pays tribute to the refinement and serenity of modern yacht design. This is a unique, one-of-a-kind model. Valentina Pichler, Communications Manager – EMEA, explains what makes this vehicle so exceptional.
How did the idea of working with chiropractors come about?
VP: “In collaboration with a chiropractor and the specialists at Comfort Motion Global (CMG), Bentley developed a scientifically advanced pneumatic postural adjustment system. CMG is a U.S.-based company that has been dedicated to fatigue prevention and medical research for years. Their studies highlight the benefits of posture changes for comfort and well-being. Thanks to this collaboration, Bentley is now the first in the automotive industry to offer a seat with postural adjustment and automatic climate control.”
The seats in the car adapt to the body over approximately three hours. How does this process work?
VP: “The Airline Seat Specification features a postural adjustment system that uses algorithms to make 177 micro-adjustments across six independent pressure zones over a three-hour period. This system employs subtle pneumatic activation zones to adjust contact pressure between the body and the seat, relieving pressure points and reducing fatigue during long journeys. Since the Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection was designed with passenger comfort in mind, the rear seats also feature the Airline Seat Specification, ensuring that rear passengers experience the same level of comfort and well-being as those in the front. Initially, this feature was offered as an optional extra for Bentayga EWB customers, but as of this year, we have extended the option to all Bentley models.”
To what extent is the Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection inspired by the world of yachting?
VP: “The interior of the Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection features a new Pale Pinstripe Veneer, inspired by the light teak decks of luxury yachts. In addition, this model integrates materials that reflect the elegance and craftsmanship of both the automotive and yachting industries. Alongside this maple veneer, known for its light color and subtle grain pattern, the car includes light brown bespoke details, such as special ‘Riviera Collection Knot’ embroidery on the headrests and ‘Azure’ embroidery on the seatbacks. These details, combined with the Aegean Blue exterior paint, reminiscent of the Mediterranean, create a tribute to the refinement and serenity of modern yachting. It takes more than 132 hours to handcraft a Bentayga EWB. The wood set in each Bentayga EWB requires over 10 hours to assemble, and the new Diamond Illumination effect is an innovative feature that emits light through small perforations of just 1 mm in diameter in the leather-trimmed door panels. With 24 billion trim combinations (and a total number of possible specifications in the trillions), the cabin of the Bentayga EWB offers an unprecedented level of customization. Currently, the Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection is touring Europe as a statement piece of Bentley’s craftsmanship. However, rumors suggest it may become available for purchase in the future.”
What were the biggest challenges in developing this special edition?
VP: “Creating a harmonious blend of automotive luxury and yacht-inspired refinement required meticulous attention to design, material selection, and craftsmanship to meet the exceptionally high standards of both industries.”
During our test drive, we noticed how exceptionally quiet the Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection is. What technologies were implemented to enhance cabin silence?
VP: “Bentley adopted a Science-Informed Design approach for this model. The two most critical factors in ensuring on-board relaxation are ride comfort and NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness). A four-year study tracking thousands of people revealed that those exposed to traffic noise above 70 decibels (dB) were 65% more at risk of depression. That’s why we significantly enhanced cabin insulation to reduce noise intrusion. Additionally, scientific research has shown that pleasing shapes, colors, and textures trigger dopamine release, which not only improves mood but also benefits the body and overall well-being. Every material, sound, movement, color, and touch continuously affects our nervous system—which is why we have fine-tuned the EWB cabin accordingly.”
The Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection embodies Bentley’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and bespoke design. Inspired by the world of yachting, this unique model offers discerning customers the perfect blend of automotive excellence and nautical elegance.
