Bentley Motors has officially commenced pre-series production of its first-ever all-electric vehicle (EV) — a new “Luxury Urban SUV” that marks the beginning of the brand’s next era of ultra-luxury electrification. Built at Bentley’s historic Crewe manufacturing facility in the UK, this upcoming model is a centerpiece of the company’s revised Beyond100+ strategy, which aims to balance innovation with customer demand for traditional powertrains.
The Bentley EV is slated for a global debut in late 2026, with deliveries scheduled for 2027. According to the company, prototype testing is already underway across multiple continents under varying climatic and driving conditions.
A New Era: Bentley’s Luxury Urban SUV
Bentley’s first electric vehicle is positioned as a compact luxury SUV, measuring under five metres in length, yet promising the space, comfort, and craftsmanship expected of the brand. It will feature cutting-edge battery and powertrain technologies, allowing rapid charging speeds of up to 300kW.
The automaker claims that the SUV will be capable of adding 100 miles (160km) of range in just seven minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging EVs in its segment. This capability aligns with Bentley’s goal of delivering both performance and convenience without compromising its hallmark refinement.
Bentley’s Electrification Roadmap and Hybrid Continuity
While the brand is advancing into the EV space, Bentley has also announced that its internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid models will continue to be sold until at least 2035. This marks a strategic shift from its earlier plan to become fully electric by 2030.
The company says this change reflects current market dynamics and customer expectations, ensuring that loyal Bentley owners have a range of choices as the industry transitions to electric mobility.
In the meantime, Bentley will continue to offer hybrid variants of its core models — the Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur — all of which will see performance and efficiency upgrades over the next decade.
Limited-Run Performance Model Coming in Late 2025
Before the debut of its first EV, Bentley plans to launch a new limited-production, non-hybrid performance car by the end of 2025.
This model will serve as a farewell to pure internal combustion performance, featuring the most advanced iteration of Bentley’s signature twin-turbo W12 or V8 powertrain.
CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser stated that the decision reflects Bentley’s commitment to “offering customers freedom of choice while moving confidently toward electrification.” He emphasized that maintaining ICE and hybrid models during the transition ensures that Bentley’s signature driving experience remains intact for existing enthusiasts.
Crewe Dream Factory: The Heart of Bentley’s Electric Future
Bentley’s Crewe “Dream Factory” is undergoing a major transformation to become the central hub for EV production. The company is investing heavily to modernize and decarbonize its operations, creating a carbon-neutral and flexible manufacturing ecosystem.
Key upgrades include:
- A new, state-of-the-art paint shop scheduled to open in 2026.
- Expansion of production lines to accommodate hybrid and EV architectures.
- A new Design Centre and Logistics Hub, inaugurated earlier this year.
This extensive retooling effort represents Bentley’s largest self-funded investment in its history and is expected to secure over 4,000 jobs as the company transitions toward sustainable vehicle manufacturing.
Bentley’s Beyond100+ Vision
The Beyond100+ plan serves as Bentley’s roadmap for the next decade, guiding its transition from traditional luxury craftsmanship to advanced, electrified performance. The strategy aims to achieve:
- Carbon-neutral production by 2030.
- A fully electrified lineup by the early 2030s.
- Continued investment in sustainability and innovation across design, materials, and operations.
The upcoming Luxury Urban SUV will be the first tangible realization of this plan — a model that combines Bentley’s timeless luxury with the latest in electric mobility and digital technology.
Verdict: A Defining Step for Bentley’s Future
The start of pre-production for Bentley’s first electric vehicle marks a pivotal milestone in the brand’s 106-year history. By blending traditional British luxury with futuristic EV performance, Bentley is setting the tone for a new generation of ultra-premium electric automobiles.
While its full electrification timeline has been extended, Bentley’s commitment to craftsmanship, performance, and innovation remains unchanged. The upcoming Luxury Urban SUV, due in 2026, will serve as the bridge between Bentley’s prestigious past and its electrified future — a statement of power, sustainability, and exclusivity.