Bentley and The Little Car Company (LCC) have joined forces to create a remarkable 85%-scale electric replica of the iconic Bentley Blower from 1929. This miniature marvel, known as the Blower ‘Junior’, is not only road-legal but also offers a luxurious and ultra-stylish alternative to the Citroën Ami.
Developed by LCC with full technical support from Bentley, the Blower Junior is the first road-legal car to be produced by the Bicester-based firm. The design process involved extensive access to Bentley’s heritage fleet Blower Team Car No 2. To pay homage to the original model, an initial run of 99 First Edition cars will be produced with the same color scheme, Union flag motifs, doorplates, and other intricate details.
While the original Blower boasted a 4.5-liter supercharged engine producing an impressive 240bhp, the Blower Jr takes a more modest approach with its rear-mounted 48V electric motor generating 20bhp. Classified as an L7e quadricycle, this mini Bentley has a top speed of 45mph in the UK and a range of approximately 65 miles. The lightweight rear section of the vehicle utilizes carbon fiber instead of the original ash wood, while the batteries and electronics are cleverly housed in an undertray.
Measuring at 3700mm long, which is similar to the length of a Hyundai i10, and 1500mm wide, the Blower Jr has been designed with usability in mind. Duncan Grey, LCC’s commercial chief, explains that the 85% scale was chosen to create a true mini-Blower that can be used every day. Although it retains the two-seater layout of the original Blower, the Blower Jr adopts a tandem seating arrangement with the passenger seated behind the driver. To comply with road regulations, modern features such as Brembo disc brakes, seat belts, indicators, and lights have been incorporated.
The cockpit and dashboard of the Blower Jr closely resemble the original model, with a few modern twists. The fuel pressure pump has been transformed into a drive mode selector, while the gear selector is based on the original’s ignition advance control. Additionally, the Blower Jr includes a USB charging port and a dual-function display featuring a built-in Garmin sat nav and reversing camera.
The Blower Jr First Edition is set to launch in 2024 with a price tag of £90,000 excluding VAT and shipping. Although this may seem steep compared to the £7,695 Citroën Ami, it is still significantly more affordable than purchasing an original Blower, which is currently insured for a staggering £25 million.
The collaboration between Bentley and LCC has resulted in a remarkable creation that combines the elegance and heritage of the iconic Bentley Blower with the convenience and sustainability of an electric vehicle. The Blower Jr offers enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the thrill of driving a Bentley in a more accessible and environmentally friendly package. With its retro styling, luxurious features, and impressive performance, this miniature Bentley is sure to turn heads on the road.
In conclusion, the Bentley Blower Junior is a remarkable achievement in automotive engineering. With its attention to detail, luxurious features, and electric powertrain, it offers a unique driving experience for enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of Bentley’s heritage or simply looking for a stylish and eco-friendly mode of transportation, the Blower Jr is sure to impress. Keep an eye out for its launch in 2024 and prepare to be amazed by this road-legal masterpiece.