The Bentley State Limousine is the official state car of the British monarch. Two were built and presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 2002 for her Golden Jubilee. Designed around the specific needs of royal duties — a high roof, large windows, wide rear-hinged doors and armored protection — they were used by the Queen for the rest of her reign and continue in service with King Charles III.

At a glance
Built 2002 (two cars)
Occasion Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II
Engine Twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V8
Length About 6.2 meters (over 20 feet)
Features Rear-hinged rear doors, raised roof, large windows, armored body and glass

Designed around the passenger

The Queen was involved in the design, and the car’s proportions reflect what a head of state needs:

  • A tall roof and large windows so crowds can see the monarch.
  • Rear-hinged rear doors that open wide, allowing the Queen to stand up straight and step out without stooping.
  • A rear seat set higher than in normal cars.
  • Removable coat of arms on the roof and a mounting for the royal mascot (a figure of St George and the dragon), which replaces the Bentley emblem.
  • Armored construction, blast-resistant floor and bulletproof glass, plus a sealed cabin that can be pressurized against gas attacks.

Built by Bentley at Crewe

The State Limousines were based on the mechanicals of the Bentley Arnage but with a unique body and structure. They are not registered with number plates — the monarch’s official cars traditionally carry none.

The royal fleet

The Bentleys joined a royal fleet that includes historic Rolls-Royce Phantoms, such as the Phantom VI given for the Silver Jubilee in 1977, and more modern Range Rovers. The State Limousines are used for state occasions, including the State Opening of Parliament and official visits. Read British royal state cars.

Why state cars look the way they do

State limousines are designed to be seen. Unlike a presidential limousine built primarily for protection, a royal state car balances security with visibility — the monarch must be seen by the public. Compare it with the U.S. approach in The Beast.