In a bold leap towards a sustainable future, Bentley has unveiled a teaser of its highly anticipated first all-electric vehicle (EV), which will debut in 2026. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and unmatched luxury, Bentley’s entry into the EV market marks a new era for the British automaker. As the brand adapts to the shifting automotive landscape, it has set ambitious plans to transition fully to electric vehicles by 2035.
The upcoming EV SUV will be the first model in Bentley’s planned series of EVs, with the company aiming to launch a new electric model annually over the next decade. Bentley is setting high expectations, calling its debut EV “the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV,” designed to blend unmatched luxury with zero-emission efficiency.
Bentley’s Electric Future: Beyond100 and Beyond100+
This new electric SUV launch is part of Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, an initiative initially outlined four years ago. This transformative approach aims to redefine Bentley’s legacy in line with environmental goals, emphasizing sustainability and a decarbonized future. Recently, Bentley’s Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to this path, introducing an updated “Beyond100+” strategy.
In his statement, Walliser said, “Four years almost to the day that Bentley initially outlined its Beyond100 strategy, we adapt to today’s economic, market, and legislative environment to initiate a major transformative phase for tomorrow. Beyond100+ becomes our guiding light as we extend our ambitions beyond 2030 while maintaining our aim of a decarbonized future, including offering only fully electric cars from 2035.”
Key Highlights of Bentley’s First EV SUV
While Bentley remains tight-lipped about the SUV’s technical specifications, a few hints have been provided. The brand emphasizes that the new EV will set new standards in luxury, aiming to bring a distinct level of elegance and quality to the electric market. This SUV will kick-start Bentley’s Pure Electric Vehicle (PEV) or Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) journey, a series designed to gradually phase out combustion engines in favor of environmentally friendly alternatives.
Bentley’s approach reflects its commitment to adapting to global shifts, regulatory demands, and market expectations while preserving the prestige associated with the brand. The upcoming SUV will serve as a flagship model, combining Bentley’s traditional luxury with futuristic, eco-conscious engineering.
Bentley’s Hybrid Strategy Until 2035
Although Bentley is focused on a fully electric future, it’s also extending the production of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) until 2035. Bentley’s current lineup includes PHEV versions of the Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Bentayga, equipped with a powerful V8 hybrid powertrain that delivers both performance and efficiency. This strategy reflects Bentley’s transitional approach, aiming to cater to markets still relying on hybrid options before fully transitioning to an electric fleet.
A Nod to Bentley’s Iconic Legacy: Farewell to the W12 Engine
In line with its sustainable ambitions, Bentley has bid farewell to its signature hand-built 12-cylinder W12 engine, a landmark in the automotive world since its introduction in the Continental GT in 2003. This year, Bentley marked the end of W12 production, making it a monumental moment in the brand’s history. This engine has powered iconic models such as the Bentayga, Continental GT, and Flying Spur, with over 100,000 W12s produced at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, UK.
The W12 phase-out signifies Bentley’s full shift towards greener alternatives, as the company transitions to electric and hybrid powertrains. This change represents Bentley’s dedication to reducing emissions and leading luxury automakers in the green revolution.
Embracing the Luxury Electric Era
Bentley’s commitment to innovation while maintaining a strong heritage of luxury and quality is evident in its EV transition plan. The first all-electric SUV, set for release in 2026, is more than just a vehicle—it symbolizes Bentley’s broader vision of a sustainable, eco-friendly future. By 2035, the British marque aims to complete its full electrification journey, producing only zero-emission vehicles and cementing its role as a leader in the luxury EV market.
FAQs
1. What is Bentley’s first all-electric SUV expected to offer?
Bentley’s upcoming all-electric SUV, scheduled for release in 2026, promises a new standard in luxury for urban EVs. Bentley refers to it as the “world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV,” designed to merge the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship with environmentally friendly innovation. However, specific technical specifications have not been revealed yet.
2. What is the Beyond100+ strategy?
Beyond100+ is Bentley’s updated vision for a sustainable future. Building on the original Beyond100 initiative, Beyond100+ aligns with global regulatory standards, market trends, and Bentley’s goal of reaching a fully electric lineup by 2035. The strategy also includes phasing out hybrid vehicles by 2035 to focus solely on EVs.
3. Why did Bentley stop producing the W12 engine?
In line with its eco-friendly goals, Bentley ended the production of its renowned W12 engine, a staple in its lineup since 2003. This decision marks Bentley’s dedication to sustainability and a shift toward electric powertrains, reducing emissions and environmental impact.
4. Will Bentley continue to produce plug-in hybrids?
Yes, Bentley will continue to offer plug-in hybrid versions of models like the Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Bentayga until 2035. This phased approach allows Bentley to meet hybrid demand in select markets while gradually shifting to a fully electric fleet.
5. When will Bentley become an all-electric brand?
Bentley aims to produce only fully electric vehicles from 2035 onwards. Starting in 2026 with the first all-electric SUV, Bentley plans to release one new electric model every year, ultimately achieving its goal of a zero-emission lineup by 2035.
Bentley’s entrance into the EV space with its 2026 SUV marks an exciting new chapter for the luxury automotive sector, combining the brand’s hallmark luxury with sustainable technology and setting a high bar for luxury EVs worldwide.