Bentley delays its full EV transition to 2035, continuing hybrid production, while its first electric SUV is set to debut in 2026.
Bentley has revised its electrification timeline, deciding to continue building internal combustion engine vehicles alongside hybrids until at least 2035, instead of committing solely to electric vehicles by 2030. The automaker’s initial “Beyond 100” strategy, announced four years ago, has evolved into “Beyond 100+,” reflecting this adjusted course. Bentley CEO Frank Walliser confirmed that the company will maintain a lineup of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) while launching annual new electric or hybrid models from 2026 through 2035.
In addition to its electrified plans, Bentley’s head of R&D, Matthias Rabe, hinted at a special internal combustion engine model slated for release within the next few years. This new model will be joined by a variant of the Bentayga SUV, featuring a non-PHEV engine, expected to debut in 2025.
Walliser acknowledges that the electric vehicle market has changed since 2019, citing a dip in demand that has influenced Bentley’s strategy. Despite this, he remains optimistic, predicting a resurgence in EV adoption, albeit at varying rates worldwide. While Bentley’s customer base hasn’t shown significant interest in electric vehicles, Walliser aims to attract new buyers who seek a modern, more innovative Bentley experience. He believes that the company’s upcoming electric SUV will capture this audience.
Set to make its debut in 2026 and hit the U.S. market in 2027, Bentley’s first electric model is described as a smaller urban SUV, distinct from the Bentayga and intended to complement the brand’s lineup. This vehicle will be built on Volkswagen Group’s versatile Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which supports a range of configurations, from varying wheelbases to adjustable ground clearances.
The upcoming Bentley EV is expected to deliver over 600 horsepower and 740 lb-ft of torque, powered by Porsche’s newly developed permanent synchronous magnet motors. Equipped with 800-volt technology, the EV will offer impressively fast charging and an ample driving range, though exact figures remain undisclosed.
Bentley is committed to maintaining its signature craftsmanship, even as it transitions to electric vehicles. Investments in a new design center, a dedicated EV assembly line, and a state-of-the-art paint shop at the Crewe facility underscore this commitment. According to Andreas Lehe, Bentley’s board member for manufacturing, the company will continue offering unparalleled customization and hand-finished luxury, preserving its unique appeal while embracing the future of mobility.
