Bentley EV Strategy | Does Bentley Make an Electric Car?
Bentley Motors is preparing to launch its first all-electric vehicle, marking a significant step in its journey towards an all-electric lineup by 2035. Recently confirmed for a 2026 release, Bentley’s initial EV offering will be a luxury “Urban SUV,” specially crafted to blend the brand's signature style with future-forward technology. This groundbreaking launch will spearhead Bentley's vision, known as Beyond100+, which aims to position the British automaker at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.
What We Know About Bentley's First Electric SUV
Bentley's first EV will be an “Urban SUV” designed to be more compact than its popular Bentayga model, offering a sleek, versatile alternative to traditional luxury SUVs. This new addition to Bentley’s lineup is expected to attract younger, urban buyers who seek sophistication, luxury, and eco-friendly driving. At less than 16.4 feet long, the Urban SUV will be slightly shorter than the Bentayga, enhancing maneuverability in urban settings while still delivering Bentley’s hallmark luxury experience.
Bentley’s CEO, Frank-Steffen Walliser, has promised an “amazing” range and “extraordinarily good” charging speed, ensuring that the new electric SUV can meet the demands of the modern luxury car enthusiast. While official specs are under wraps, Bentley’s commitment to innovation in battery technology hints at an EV that will combine powerful performance with long-lasting range.
Unique Features of Bentley's Electric Vision
As a brand known for performance and prestige, Bentley is committed to providing an exceptional sensory experience, even in its electric models. Bentley has assured enthusiasts that the EV will deliver a distinct sound profile tailored to suit the brand’s luxurious and exhilarating nature. Rather than imitating traditional engine sounds, Bentley’s engineers are working to create a sound that complements the Urban SUV’s electric drivetrain.
In addition, Bentley's new EV will be built on a platform that integrates state-of-the-art digital technology, offering enhanced connectivity and automated driving capabilities tailored to the demands of the luxury market. Bentley's focus on creating a distinctive electric driving experience extends to the cabin design as well, with a fully digital cockpit, opulent materials, and high-tech amenities that define the Bentley name.
Bentley's Transition to an All-Electric Lineup
Bentley’s journey to an all-electric lineup, called the Beyond100+ strategy, aims to transition the brand's entire range to battery power by 2035. This shift is underscored by Bentley’s substantial £2.5 billion ($3.2 million) investment in its Pyms Lane plant in Crewe, England. The new facility will feature a 134,119-square-foot paint shop and a four-story office building, where over 370 Bentley employees will work to drive innovation and efficiency in EV production. The investment represents Bentley’s commitment to producing luxury EVs with the highest quality standards.
Beyond fully electric vehicles, Bentley will also continue to offer plug-in hybrids and even combustion engine models, ensuring the brand can meet diverse customer demands as the EV market matures. Bentley remains invested in sustainable fuel technologies like e-fuels, ensuring that environmentally-conscious options are available for their combustion-engine models as long as regulations permit.
The Road Ahead for Bentley and the Luxury EV Market
As Bentley embarks on this electric journey, the brand is poised to set new standards in the luxury EV market. Bentley’s decision to focus on an Urban SUV for its first electric vehicle reflects its intention to capture the growing demand for eco-conscious, high-performance vehicles in urban markets around the world. This move allows Bentley to retain its prestige while appealing to a broader audience and embracing a more sustainable future.
The 2026 release of Bentley's first electric SUV will undoubtedly be a significant milestone, not only for Bentley but also for the luxury automotive industry. This model will embody the essence of Bentley while leading the brand toward a greener, more connected future.
With its combination of urban adaptability, advanced technology, and Bentley’s signature luxury, the Urban SUV is anticipated to set a new benchmark in electric luxury. For luxury car buyers and enthusiasts alike, Bentley’s foray into the electric vehicle space marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the brand's history.