The new More than 100+ corporate strategy, presented by Frank-Steffen Walliser, Bentley’s new CEO, retains the same goal of a decarbonised future through the exclusive commercialisation of all-electric vehicles, but postpones this goal to a five-year period. Walliser is basing this new strategy in current economic, market and regulatory conditions; and believes it will reinforce the brand’s reputation as the UK’s highest luxury vehicle manufacturer for more than a century.
The truth is that this announcement comes as no surprise, as Walliser’s predecessor in office, which he has held since last July, had already announced a postponement to 2033 at the end of the brand’s transition to electric mobility, which was also accompanied by a new investment plan of hundreds of millions of pounds in the development of new plug-in hybrids.
The current commitment to plug-in hybrid drives is already reflected in the models offered by the British manufacturer. The Continental GT Coupé, Continental GT Convertible and Flying Spur models, for example, are now being sold exclusively with the new high-performance V8 plug-in hybrid engine. While production of Bentley’s legendary W12 combustion engine, which originated from the brand’s main plant in Crewe (UK), has been discontinued after more than two decades on the market.
What do we know about Bentley’s first electric car?
If all goes to plan, Bentley’s first all-electric vehicle will be launched in 2026. The company defines it as the first truly luxury urban SUV and believes it will ultimately create a new segment in the market. This electric model will be designed, developed and produced at Bentley’s main plant in the UK and all indications are that it will be based on the PPE platform jointly developed by Porsche and Audi. The same that is used in the Porsche Macan or the Audi Q6 e-tron.
To make this project a reality, Bentley has already begun construction of a new facility in Crewe, known as “the dream factory”. These facilities will feature a new design centre, a new paint shop and also a new assembly line dedicated exclusively to the brand’s electric models. The company is talking about an investment that will reach £2,500bn, representing the boldest commercial endeavour Bentley has undertaken in its more than one hundred year history.
