The journey toward electrification has been clear for Bentley for some time now. Back in 2018, the luxury automaker made its first foray into hybrids with the Bentayga Hybrid, setting the stage for a gradual transformation. Today, Bentley offers plug-in hybrid options of both the Continental GT and the Flying Spur. But now, the brand is pushing the boundaries further, with Bentley’s CEO, Frank-Steffen Walliser, hinting at the brand’s first fully electric vehicle, scheduled to launch in 2026.
Bentley’s Bold Move into Electric Luxury
The New “Luxury Urban SUV” – A Smaller, More Refined Bentley
Bentley’s upcoming electric vehicle will take the form of a compact luxury crossover, which Walliser describes as a “luxury urban SUV.” For a brand known for the grand and spacious Bentayga, calling this new model “compact” hints at a significant shift. Walliser has mentioned that this EV will come in under 197 inches (or five meters) in length, positioning it close in size to models like the Porsche Cayenne or Audi Q7. With rumors suggesting it will share the platform of the future Porsche Cayenne EV, this new Bentley could bring an intriguing mix of high-end comfort and urban versatility.
Focused on Range, Charging, and the “Bentley Feel”
Bentley is keeping the exact specs under wraps for now, but the company is clear about its priorities: range and charging speed. According to Walliser, the aim is not just to create an electric vehicle, but to capture what makes a Bentley unmistakably unique. “We don’t want to make just any electric car; we want to make a Bentley,” he emphasized, reassuring Bentley enthusiasts that the brand’s signature feel and quality will be preserved in this new era of electrification.
One of the biggest challenges? The lack of engine noise. For a brand where the engine’s refined growl is part of the luxury experience, this is a complex issue. Bentley board member Matthias Rabe confirmed they’re working on a unique solution but have yet to reveal the details. Rather than imitating an artificial engine sound, Bentley aims to innovate, maintaining the essence of their driving experience without simply “copying and pasting” an engine note.
A Revised Carbon-Neutral Timeline: Beyond 100 Plus
Alongside the reveal of its first electric SUV, Bentley has also updated its environmental goals. Initially targeting full carbon neutrality by 2030, Bentley has now shifted this deadline to 2035, rebranding its strategy from “Beyond 100” to “Beyond 100 Plus.” Walliser noted that this adjustment reflects both regulatory pressures and shifting customer interests. Although some markets are faster to adopt electric vehicles, Bentley recognizes that others may require more time.
The Road Ahead: Bentley’s Electric Vision
Bentley’s upcoming electric SUV represents not just a new vehicle, but a pivotal moment in the brand’s history. By blending compact versatility, luxury, and cutting-edge electric technology, Bentley is reimagining what a luxury vehicle can be in an electric world. For Bentley enthusiasts, this evolution promises to deliver the unmatched refinement and quality they expect—just with a little less engine noise and a lot more sustainability. The future of Bentley is electric, and the countdown to 2026 has officially begun.