After revealing it two years ago, Bentley Motors has implemented an advanced manufacturing technique involving three-dimensional (3D) printing of hallmarked 18-karat rose gold in a single, highly exclusive Batur model, marking an automotive industry first, with the technology being applied to create key interior touchpoints.
The Batur, named the Black Rose’, is one of just 18 examples of the model commissioned through Bentley’s Mulliner Bespoke Studio and one of just three right-hand drive examples commissioned. Costing a formidable NZ$12.5 million apiece, the Batur is built exclusively by Bentley's Mulliner division.
The ‘Black Rose’ features metallic paintwork commissioned by Mulliner exclusively for the customer, with a gloss Beluga upper body. Satin Rose Gold accents adorn the front grille, ‘endless bonnet line’ brightware, mirror caps, lower body kit and 22” tri-tone wheels.
The interior features up to 210 grams of 3D-printed gold within its cabin, applied to "key driver touchpoints" using Bentley's gold Additive Manufacturing (AM) 3D printing technique.
Components such as the Drive Mode Selector, the "Organ Stop" vent controls on the dashboard, and an insert marker on the steering wheel all receive the gold treatment.
Bentley collaborated with goldsmiths Cooksongold for the initiative, combining advanced manufacturing technologies with traditional material finishing. The raw materials used are sustainably sourced from 100 percent recycled jewellery and all gold parts manufactured for the Batur undergo a hallmarking process at Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to ensure material authenticity.
In 2022, Bentley invested £3 million to expand its Additive Manufacturing (AM) capacity at its Crewe factory, enabling the production of physical parts from three-dimensional CAD models.
Hallmarked 18-karat rose gold is just one of the innovative finishes available to Batur customers through Bentley’s Mulliner division, which offers extensive bespoke options beyond traditional materials and offers a "direct co-creation service" for wealthy clients.
The Batur is part of Mulliner’s Coachbuilt family, which also includes the Bacalar and the Batur Convertible. It is the fastest-ever production Bentley and is powered by a 544kW 6.0-litre W12 engine and features four-wheel steering and anti-roll suspension powered by a 48-volt electrical system.
And, yes, all 18 sold out almost immediately.
