Bentley is about to take a major step forward in its history. After more than a century of combustion engines, the British brand is preparing to unveil its first-ever all-electric vehicle at the end of 2026, with deliveries scheduled for early 2027.
The arrival of Bentley‘s first all-electric model will mark a historic milestone for the British firm. This future SUV, designed and manufactured at the brand’s headquarters in Crewe, will combine technological innovation and electrifying performance, while opening a new chapter in the manufacturer’s “Beyond100+” strategy, which aims to transform the brand and its range in anticipation of its centenary.
This model, whose name remains a secret, will not replace any existing model : it will enrich the range with a new positioning, that of the “Luxury Urban SUV.”
A pure performance SUV
Despite its compact dimensions, Bentley’s future electric SUV will make no compromises in terms of performance or comfort. Built on the PPE Evo platform, shared with the future Porsche Cayenne Electric, it will feature a 113 kWh battery and 800-volt architecture. This technical foundation will enable ultra-fast charging : 160 km of range recovered in just seven minutes.
According to estimates, the charging power will reach 400 kW, one of the highest figures on the market, with a range that could approach 640 kilometers.
Matthias Rabe, Bentley’s technical director, sums up the ambition of the project : “This model will be as comfortable as a Flying Spur, as agile as a Continental GT, and its acceleration will surpass anything Bentley has produced to date.”
Inside, the manufacturer promises an experience worthy of its reputation : noble materials, handcrafted finishes, and extreme customization. Nearly 46 billion configurations will be possible at launch. Inspired by the EXP 15 concept, the cabin will combine digital screens with a central vertical touchscreen interface, while retaining some of the brand’s iconic physical controls. The exterior design will feature an elegant and balanced silhouette, halfway between an SUV and a sports sedan.
Hybrids haven’t had their final say yet
While Bentley is determined to electrify its range, the brand recently adjusted its Beyond100 plan, which is now Beyond100+. Faced with fluctuating demand for luxury electric vehicles, the manufacturer will continue to market its hybrid models until 2035.
Frank Steffen Walliser, Bentley’s managing director, explains it clearly : “The updates to our Beyond100+ strategy reaffirm Bentley’s commitment to progress in a responsible and sustainable manner. We are adapting our product launch pace to reflect the realities of a constantly changing world and a dynamic market.”
Combustion and hybrid engines will therefore continue to coexist with electric models for several years. Bentley plans to launch a plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehicle every year to meet the diverse expectations of its customers. This gradual approach allows the brand to prepare for the complete electrification of its range without rushing the market and demand.
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Featured photo : © Bentley
