Bentley has won the Spirit of Greenpower award for a small electrically powered racer designed by a team of the firm's apprentices.

The firm, a favourite with prestige car hire customers, earned the accolade at the Greenpower Corporate Challenge held at the Goodwood Estate.

Called the Continental DC, the British racing green vehicle's 24-volt motor runs off two 12-volt batteries, generating 0.5 horsepower.

The single-seater's body is made of carbon fibre and runs on 16-inch wheels with low-rolling-resistance tyres and can reach up to 40 miles per hour.

Nine Bentley apprentices put the car together as part of their four year programme, which takes them through all the firm's big departments including manufacturing, public relations, purchasing and engineering.

Their car, which they built with minimal assistance from the professionals at the Crewe factory, is now set to compete in the F24+ racing season, which will see it compete in eight 90-minute races throughout the UK.

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