The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 sports car, famously driven by James Bond in *Goldfinger*, was outfitted with an array of concealed gadgets that might seem unnecessary for everyday drivers but were crucial for Bond’s survival.
Among its unique equipment were a hidden telephone, radar tracker, revolving number plates, front-mounted turrets, wheel-based tire scythes, and, of course, the iconic ejector seat.
Today’s vehicles feature a different array of technology, with both advanced and simpler systems designed to enhance safety and improve the driving experience.
High-tech innovations that once appeared only in luxury models are now standard in even the most budget-friendly cars.
Cars serve as prime incubators for cutting-edge technology, and as the cost of innovations drops, new advancements are being introduced at a faster pace than ever.
Now-commonplace features like rearview cameras, navigation systems, and touchscreen displays have raised the standard for vehicle safety and convenience, making driving safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Many car shoppers now prioritize features such as adaptive cruise control, smartphone integration for hands-free operation, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure alerts, to name just a few.
Yet, some drivers who have these advanced features may not fully understand their function or even realize they’re available in their vehicles.
Bentley Bentayga – Mulliner Hamper
Luxury SUVs have become widespread, but Bentley offers something unique through its Mulliner department, a team dedicated to custom coachbuilding and fulfilling extravagant desires.
The Bentayga’s Mulliner hamper is far from an ordinary wicker basket.
It’s mounted on a specially engineered docking mechanism that lets you pull it forward and even remove it entirely, with the lids serving as makeshift seats – perfect for outdoor events, be it at the races or a celebrity event.
Packing your own dinnerware isn’t necessary; the Mulliner hamper includes custom china, cutlery, crystal glassware, and even a Bentley ‘Flying B’ bottle stopper for your chosen beverages.
There’s ample space for snacks and drinks, with a built-in fridge for keeping things cool. Cheers!
Price: Over £20,000
Bentley Continental GT – Rotating Dashboard
For those who appreciate displaying their wealth, Bentley offers a feature that’s bound to impress: the rotating dashboard display on the Continental GT.
Reminiscent of James Bond’s iconic rotating number plate, this optional display allows you to switch between elegant analogue dials (featuring outside temperature, compass, and chronometer), a 12.3-inch touchscreen, or sophisticated walnut veneer – or any other high-end finish of your choosing.
Bentley notes that the dashboard’s custom mechanism comprises 40 moving parts and uses an intelligent drive system that adjusts speeds to accommodate differences in friction and temperature, ensuring perfect performance. A truly fascinating feature to amaze your friends.
Price: £4,770
Rolls-Royce Cullinan – Champagne Chiller
Those who have attained a certain level of success might feel the urge to celebrate at any moment – and a champagne fridge in the back seat of your vehicle is the ultimate solution.
Enter the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which, while costing over a quarter-million pounds, includes a touch of indulgence at no extra charge.
Opt for the Individual Seat configuration in the rear, and you’ll get the Fixed Rear Centre Console, which incorporates a chiller for champagne and all the necessary accessories.
For whisky lovers, Rolls-Royce even provides branded whisky glasses and a decanter, forming a mobile drinks cabinet. For family trips, you can swap the champagne for soft drinks or milkshakes – cheers!
Price: £270,000 for the car
Bentley Flying Spur – Lambswool Rugs
For high-powered executives, the Bentley Flying Spur is more than just transport – it’s a second home.
The rear seats offer top-notch comfort, with heated and cooled massage seats that adjust in 14 ways.
Entertainment tablets on the back of the front seats let you watch movies while staying productive.
But the real highlight? The option to add Lambswool Rugs. Bentley describes them as “soft, cushioned, and naturally luxurious to the touch,” made from premium lambswool.
This touch of indulgence means you may want to slip off your shoes and put on slippers for the ride.
Price: Around £1,500
Rolls-Royce Wraith – Starlight Headliner
For stargazing enthusiasts, the Rolls-Royce Wraith offers a way to view the constellations in ultimate comfort, courtesy of its starlight headliner.
It takes two skilled Rolls-Royce artisans between 9 and 17 hours to create this headliner, depending on the complexity of the design.
Each headliner is carefully customized, with up to 1,600 fibre-optic lights positioned at different angles to replicate a specific constellation pattern.
The occupant can control the brightness using the infotainment system, making the stars the final frontier in luxury.
Price: Approx. £10,000
Range Rover Sentinel – Emergency Escape System
In high-stakes success world, making enemies may be inevitable. But worry not – Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations offers the heavily armored Range Rover Sentinel for protection.
Equipped with bulletproof armor, protection from pipe bombs and grenades, and the capability to handle armor-piercing bullets, the Sentinel maintains Range Rover’s renowned off-road capabilities.
With a weight of 4.5 tonnes, fuel economy may be a concern, but if you’re in the oil business, it shouldn’t be an issue.
The Sentinel’s standout feature is its rear escape hatch, an invaluable addition should a quick getaway be necessary. In the event of blocked doors, this hatch provides an alternate exit.
Price: From £350,000 (plus taxes)
Rolls-Royce Phantom – Umbrellas
Regardless of wealth, rain doesn’t discriminate. To ensure you’re prepared, the Rolls-Royce Phantom comes with a pair of umbrellas neatly stowed in the rear doors.
A base model may set you back £320,000, but these umbrellas, with polished handles and the Rolls-Royce monogram, are included.
No need to worry about drying, as the compartments have drainage and air circulation to keep the umbrellas drip-free.
If you prefer to ride in the back, just pass the instructions to your driver.
Price: Free with every Phantom
Aurus Senat – Heated and Cooled Cupholders
If you’re a Russian oligarch looking for a luxurious ride with national pride, the Aurus Senat might be just the car for you.
Inspired by President Vladimir Putin’s state limousine, the AWD Senat offers all the premium features you’d expect.
With an optional 6.6-liter V12 producing 848 bhp, it’s ideal for making a statement. The back seats recline with attached pillows, and there are leather-trimmed tables.
But the standout feature? Heated and cooled cupholders. Press a button to maintain your drink’s ideal temperature, an indulgence you may never have realized you needed.
Price: £130,000 approx
Bentley Bentayga – Biometric Secure Stowage
As someone with high status, you may have personal items to keep secure.
Bentley offers a discreet solution in the Bentayga: a biometric storage compartment between the front seats, similar to phone unlocking technology.
The compartment, made of high-pressure die-cast aluminum, is finished in sleek black and hidden beneath the armrest. Impress passengers with its secure design, or use it to keep their keys safely stored away.
Price: £2,375
Mercedes-Maybach – Genius I Cufflinks
Though the least expensive item on this list, these Maybach Genius I cufflinks still exemplify luxury.
“Beautiful items of gentlemen’s jewellery show off exclusive materials, finest workmanship and unmistakable style,” according to Maybach.
In true luxury spirit, you can also purchase a matching belt from the Fabulous collection, complete with a large, logo-embellished buckle. Stylish, indeed.
Price: £300
