Actor Idris Elba Set New Record in Bentley GT Speed

The new 'Flying Mile' UK land speed record achieved by actor Idris Elba in a new Continental GT Speed is a high-profile media story showcasing the exceptional performance of Bentley Grand Tourers.

Driving the new Continental GT Speed on a beach in Wales, the UK award-winning actor Idris Elba broke the historic 'Flying Mile' UK wheel-driven land speed record set by Sir Malcolm Campbell in 1927.

The star of Luther and The Wire reached 180.361 mph (290.263 km/h) at the wheel of the 16MY model on Pendine Sands, Wales, breaking the 88-year-old existing record of 174.8 mph (281.3 km/h) set by Sir Malcolm in his legendary Napier-Campbell Blue Bird. The record was independently verified by the UK Timing Association.

The land speed record was broken during filming for an upcoming four-part Discovery Channel series, Idris Elba: No Limits, to be shown in July. “I'm absolutely elated to have broken the 'Flying Mile' at Pendine Sands," says Elba, who played Nelson Mandela in the multi-award winning Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. “It's an honour to have taken on the challenge, and to successfully follow in the footsteps of the illustrious Sir Malcolm Campbell."

This remarkable achievement puts Bentley centre stage with a high-profile, well-respected actor providing a strong and effective marketing tool that showcases the exceptional speed and power of Bentley cars, particularly the Continental GT Speed.