Change of direction at Crewe: Bentley delays all-electric transition
The list of luxury automakers reevaluating their electrification strategies continues to grow. Bentley has officially announced that it is abandoning its original plan to become a purely electric brand starting in 2030, pushing that deadline back five years.
The decision comes six years after the launch of the initial strategy in 2020, which called for the complete elimination of internal combustion engines and the introduction of the first series electric model as early as 2025. Changes in the global automotive market, the pace of adaptation of the charging infrastructure and fluctuations in demand in the ultra-luxury segment have led the management of the British brand to adopt a much more flexible approach.
Bentley's new CEO, Frank-Steffan Walliser, explained that the long-term predictability that previous strategies were based on no longer fits the current reality. As a result, the Crewe-based brand is reconfiguring its technology path, setting 2035 as the new deadline for the 100% electric transition.
Reassessing strategy: Flexibility instead of rigid deadlines
The initial electrification plan involved a direct transition from traditional engines to battery power. However, market analysis has shown that internal combustion models and plug-in hybrid powertrains continue to be in high demand among the brand's customers.
In this context, Bentley will continue to produce plug-in hybrid and conventional engine versions alongside new electric vehicles. To support this dual strategy, the Crewe plant has received an investment of £350 million. The assembly lines have been reconfigured to be able to produce both internal combustion and hybrid models, as well as electric models, in line with the evolution of demand in international markets.
Bentley Torcal: The first electric SUV in the brand's history
The announcement of the strategy adjustment was made at the same time as the official presentation of the new Bentley Torcal. This is the first fully electric production vehicle ever developed by the British manufacturer, opening a new stage in the history of the brand.
The model name is derived from the El Torcal de Antequera nature reserve in Spain, known for its impressive rock formations. The E-segment SUV is developed on the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture with 800V technology, offering generous interior space and excellent dynamic performance.
Peak performance and ultra-fast charging
The Bentley Torcal uses a dual-motor all-wheel drive system. The model is offered in two performance versions, both powered by a 113.2 kWh battery pack:
- Torcal (standard version): Delivers 820 hp (600 kW) and 1,155 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 3.4 seconds and the top speed reaches 250 km/h.
- Torcal S: Becomes the most powerful production model in Bentley history, delivering 888 PS (653 kW) and 1,350 Nm of torque. With Launch Control activated, the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 2.9 seconds and the top speed is 260 km/h.
The claimed maximum range is up to 600 km in the WLTP cycle. The advanced electrical system allows for ultra-fast charging at DC stations with up to 400 kW, making it possible to recharge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 16 minutes. The total vehicle weight is 2,700 kg, but handling is optimised by an active chassis with rear-axle steering.
Redefining aesthetic language and high-level comfort
The Torcal also marks a change in the brand's aesthetic direction. The illuminated front grille incorporates a diamond pattern made up of 76 LED elements, while the rear takes design cues from the EXP 15 concept. The car also sports a modernized version of the Bentley badge.
Inside, the finishes combine traditional materials such as leather, wool, fine wood and polished aluminum with state-of-the-art technological features:
- Interior comfort: 16-way electrically adjustable seats, equipped with heating, ventilation and massage functions for both the front and rear seats.
- Top-of-the-line audio system: The base option offers 16 speakers and 620 W, while the optional Naim for Bentley system delivers 1,780 W through 28 speakers with Dolby Atmos support.
- Panoramic roof: Glass roof with electronically adjustable opacity.
- Synthetic Acoustic System: Generates a distinctive sound based on real acoustic drum vibrations, transmitted both internally and externally.
- Assistance systems: Network of 25 sensors, radars and video cameras dedicated to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Outlook for the Bentley portfolio
The launch of the Torcal shows that Bentley is ready for the electric age in terms of technology, performance and refinement. However, extending the deadline for the complete elimination of internal combustion engines to 2035 allows the British brand to maintain a diverse range of hybrid powertrains in parallel, giving customers the opportunity to choose the technology that suits their needs.