In a significant milestone for the luxury brand, Bentley has officially commenced pre-series production of its debut all-electric vehicle. This move marks a pivotal step in the company’s ambitious “Beyond100” strategy, signaling a firm commitment to an electric future.
The new model, internally dubbed the “Luxury Urban SUV,” is being crafted at Bentley’s historic home in Crewe, England. While its full debut is slated for late 2026, with customer deliveries following in 2027, the automaker has confirmed that global prototype testing is now actively underway.
A Glimpse into Bentley’s Electric Future
This first Bentley EV is designed to be a formidable contender in the luxury segment. Described as an “Urban SUV” and measuring under five meters in length, it promises to blend grand touring capabilities with everyday usability. Perhaps its most impressive claimed feature is a revolutionary charging capability. Bentley states the e-SUV will be able to add approximately 100 miles of range in just seven minutes, pointing to support for ultra-high-speed charging systems of up to 300kW.
This technological leap is supported by a massive, self-funded investment to transform the Crewe headquarters into a “Dream Factory” fit for the next generation. The site is undergoing extensive modernization, including the construction of a new paint shop scheduled for completion in 2026, all aimed at achieving a carbon-neutral and flexible production environment.
Hybrids and a Surprise Performance Model
In a strategic shift, Bentley has also revised its timeline for going fully electric. The company now confirms it will continue to produce and sell hybrid versions of its core models—the Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur—until at least 2035. This extends beyond its initial all-electric target date, a decision CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser attributes to evolving market demands.
“By continuing to offer our revered ICE and hybrid powertrains, we are providing our customers with more choice as we navigate this transition to electric mobility together,” Walliser explained.
Adding to the excitement, Bentley announced a final flourish for its combustion engine era. Before the EV’s arrival, the brand will unveil a new, limited-run, non-hybrid performance model by the end of 2025, promising a last hurrah for pure internal combustion power.
This dual-path strategy—investing heavily in an electric future while continuing to refine its current offerings—demonstrates Bentley’s careful balancing act. It’s a plan designed to preserve the brand’s heritage, secure the jobs of its 4,000-strong workforce, and boldly step into a new era of silent, emission-free luxury.
