Bentley has unveiled an online configurator for its Bentley Blower Jnr, allowing customers to personalise their very own miniature version of the legendary 1929 4½-Litre supercharged ‘Blower‘.
This announcement comes on the heels of the successful launch of the Bentley Blower Jnr at last year’s Monterey Car Week, cementing the model’s position as a must-have for collectors and driving enthusiasts.
A Small Scale Legend Revived
The Blower Jnr is no ordinary small car. 85% of the original’s size, this fully electric and road legal recreation is a modern take on Bentley’s motorsport heritage in a nostalgic package.
Developed in collaboration with Hedley Studios (formerly known as The Little Car Company), the Blower Jnr represents a harmonious blend of modern engineering and timeless design.
Ben Hedley, Founder and CEO of Hedley Studios, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “Since we launched the Bentley Blower Jnr last year, its reception has continued to blow us away, and with all First Editions sold out, we’re excited to launch the configurable options for the Blower Jnr. Craftsmanship lies at the heart of what we do, and giving customers the opportunity to curate their very own Bentley Blower Jnr through our online configurator provides a wonderful route into owning a slice of history, but with a very personal touch.”
Customisation at Your Fingertips
The newly launched online configurator is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to personalisation and attention to detail.
Prospective owners can now visualise and specify their Blower Jnr with an unprecedented level of customisation. The configurator offers a plethora of options, including:
- Exterior paint colours
- Interior leather finishes
- Hand-painted numbers
- National flags
With thousands of possible configurations, each Bentley Blower Jnr can truly be a unique reflection of its owner’s taste and style.
Curated Packs: A Nod to Bentley’s Rich Heritage
In addition to individual customisation options, Hedley Studios has crafted six meticulously curated packs, each paying homage to a significant chapter in Bentley’s illustrious history.
These packs offer a guided journey through the brand’s legacy, allowing owners to connect with pivotal moments that have shaped Bentley’s reputation.
The Blue Pack: A Race Against Time
One standout option is ‘The Blue Pack’, which draws inspiration from Woolf Barnato’s legendary race against the Blue Train.
This pack commemorates Barnato’s triumphant drive from the Côte d’Azur to Calais in his Bentley Speed Six, outpacing the famous express train and cementing Bentley’s reputation for unparalleled performance and reliability.
The Grey Pack: Le Mans Legacy
Another noteworthy choice is ‘The Grey Pack’, which pays tribute to the Bentley Speed Six that clinched victory at Le Mans in both 1929 and 1930.
This pack is inspired by the car’s subsequent transformation by Barnato into a road-going coupé finished in a striking gunmetal grey, embodying the versatility and enduring appeal of Bentley’s racing pedigree.
Limited Availability Ensures Exclusivity
For those considering adding a Bentley Blower Jnr to their collection, time is of the essence. Hedley Studios has announced that only 250 configurable models will be available, bringing the total production run to 349 units worldwide.
This limited availability follows the overwhelming success of the 99 limited First Editions, which sold out rapidly, underscoring the high demand for these miniature masterpieces.
A Faithful Homage to a Motoring Icon
The Bentley Blower Jnr is far more than just a scaled-down replica. It represents a collaborative effort between Hedley Studios and Bentley’s Heritage Collection, with the original 1929 Team Car serving as the blueprint for this modern interpretation.
Valued at a staggering £25 million, the original Blower was meticulously studied to ensure that every detail of the Jnr version pays proper homage to its predecessor.
The result is a vehicle that challenges perception, measuring 3.7 metres in length and 1.5 metres in width.
Unlike many miniature cars, the Blower Jnr is fully road-legal and designed specifically for use on public roads, making it perhaps the most sophisticated city car ever conceived.
Cutting-Edge Technology Meets Classic Design
At the heart of the Bentley Blower Jnr lies a thoroughly modern 48V electric powertrain. The 15 kW (20 bhp) motor propels the vehicle to a top speed of 45 mph (72 km/h) in the UK and EU, while US models are limited to 25 mph (40 km/h) due to local regulations.
With an estimated range of approximately 65 miles, the Blower Jnr offers a practical yet exhilarating driving experience.
The vehicle’s construction is a masterclass in combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary materials. While the rear body structure utilises carbon fibre for strength and lightness, it’s covered in impregnated fabric to maintain the authentic look and feel of the original.
The bonnet, complete with its distinctive cooling louvres, is hand-crafted in aluminium using time-honoured techniques and secured with beautifully crafted leather bonnet straps.
A Cockpit That Blends Past and Present
The interior of the Bentley Blower Jnr is a testament to the attention to detail that has been given to its creation.
The two-person cockpit features a 1+1 layout, with a central adjustable driving position and a passenger seat behind. This configuration not only mimics the original car’s layout but also adds a touch of intimacy to the driving experience.
The dashboard is a work of art in itself, featuring Engine Turned Aluminium that faithfully recreates the look of the 1929 original. However, beneath this classic façade lies a range of modern amenities and clever reinterpretations of vintage controls:
- The original fuel pressurisation hand pump now serves as the drive mode selector, offering Comfort (2 kW), Bentley (8 kW), and Sport (15 kW) modes.
- The forward, neutral, and reverse selector mimics the form and function of the original Blower’s ignition advance control.
- Headlight and indicator switches are fashioned after the magneto switches from the Team Car.
- A dual-function display discreetly incorporates both a Garmin satellite navigation screen and a reversing camera.
These modern touches are seamlessly integrated, ensuring that the Blower Jnr remains true to its heritage while offering the convenience and safety features expected of a contemporary vehicle.
Sustainable Power in a Classic Package
One of the most innovative aspects of the Bentley Blower Jnr is its all-electric powertrain.
The decision to equip this classic-inspired vehicle with an electric motor not only future-proofs the design but also aligns with Bentley’s commitment to sustainable luxury.
The charging port is cleverly concealed within the supercharger housing, maintaining the vehicle’s classic lines while providing easy access for charging. Compatible with both Type 1 and Type 2 sockets, the Blower Jnr can be easily recharged, ensuring it’s always ready for its next adventure.
A New Chapter in Bentley’s Illustrious History
The launch of the configurable Bentley Blower Jnr represents more than just a new product offering; it’s a bridge between Bentley’s storied past and its innovative future. By allowing enthusiasts to own and personalise a piece of automotive history, Bentley is ensuring that the spirit of the original Blower lives on for a new generation.
As the automotive world continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on electrification and sustainability, the Bentley Blower Jnr stands as a shining example of how heritage and progress can coexist. It offers a glimpse into a future where classic designs are reimagined with cutting-edge technology, preserving the essence of iconic vehicles while adapting to the needs of modern drivers.
The Bentley Blower Jnr is more than just a car; it’s a time machine, a conversation starter, and a rolling work of art. For the lucky few who will have the opportunity to own one, it represents a unique chance to experience the golden age of motoring in a package that’s both practical and exhilarating.
As production of these miniature marvels continues, one thing is certain: the Bentley Blower Jnr will undoubtedly become a coveted collector’s item, cherished by enthusiasts and admired by all who encounter it on the road. It stands as a testament to Bentley’s enduring legacy and its ability to innovate while honouring its rich heritage.
