Bentley is moving forward with its debut electric vehicle, an “Urban SUV,” and has explicitly ruled out any future plans for hybrid or gasoline-powered versions. The company’s CEO, Frank-Steffen Walliser, stated there is “no intention” of adding an internal combustion engine (ICE) or plug-in hybrid drivetrain to the model, even though some other automakers are now offering hybrid options alongside their EVs.
Strategy and Customer Base
The decision reflects Bentley’s strategy to attract new customers while maintaining its existing combustion lineup. Walliser emphasized that the electric SUV is designed to draw in buyers who may not have considered the brand before. The automaker believes that offering a pure EV will appeal to a different segment of the luxury market.
Technical Feasibility and Platform
The electric SUV will be built on Volkswagen Group’s PPE platform, which already supports vehicles like the Audi Q6 E-Tron and Porsche Macan Electric. Walliser also noted that adding an ICE option isn’t technically feasible. The SUV is designed from the ground up as a fully electric vehicle, making a later conversion impractical.
Charging Capabilities
Bentley has previously highlighted the vehicle’s charging performance, which Walliser described as “extraordinarily good.” The SUV is expected to recover about 100 miles of range in roughly seven minutes, ensuring convenience for drivers.
Launch Timeline
The electric SUV is undergoing testing and is scheduled for a full reveal before the end of the year. Bentley has remained consistent in its commitment to electrification, even as other manufacturers adjust their EV strategies.
Bentley’s firm stance on a fully electric model demonstrates confidence in the growing demand for EVs within the luxury sector. The company is betting on attracting new customers who prioritize sustainability and advanced technology, rather than catering to those who still prefer traditional combustion engines.
