Bentley is poised to enter the electric vehicle market with its first EV, a luxurious urban SUV slated for release in 2027. Early details reveal a vehicle engineered for rapid charging and agile urban driving, setting a new standard for electric luxury.
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Rapid Charging Capabilities
The centerpiece of Bentley’s electric debut is its exceptional charging speed. The vehicle is projected to gain 100 miles of range in just 6.5 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging EVs currently envisioned. This translates to a potential charging capacity of up to 350kW, although achieving this speed will depend on access to compatible high-powered charging stations. Currently, the fastest-charging EV available in the UK is the Lotus Emeya, boasting a peak charging rate of 400kW. The relatively low average charger capacity in the UK (around 350kW) means that widespread access to such fast charging will be crucial for unlocking the vehicle’s full potential.
Performance and Handling
Beyond its charging speed, Bentley aims to deliver the brand’s signature driving experience in electric form. According to Bentley’s research and development boss, Matthias Rabe, the new EV will blend the refined comfort of a Flying Spur with the dynamic agility of a Continental GT. He anticipates impressively swift acceleration figures, with “very fast” 0-100mph and 0-200mph times, ultimately aiming for “the best Bentley on the road.”
Compact Design for Urban Environments
The forthcoming Bentley EV will occupy a unique position within the brand’s SUV lineup. At a length of less than five meters, it will be the shortest Bentley SUV sold and positioned beneath the Bentayga. To cater to its intended “urban” role, the vehicle has been designed to offer a tight turning radius, essential for navigating city streets.
Shared Technology with Porsche and Audi
While Bentley hasn’t released extensive platform details, it’s confirmed that the EV will be built upon a version of the Porsche and Audi-developed PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture. This connection provides valuable insights into the car’s potential, drawing parallels with the upcoming Porsche Cayenne Electric. The Cayenne Electric, equipped with dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrains delivering between 400bhp and 805bhp (potentially reaching nearly 1000bhp with launch control), and featuring a 108kWh battery with a range of up to 373 miles, demonstrates the capabilities of the underlying platform.
Launch Timeline and Market Positioning
Bentley CEO Frank Walliser confirmed that the vehicle is still on track for launch “towards the end of 2026,” with deliveries expected in 2027. Importantly, Walliser asserted that this timeline will remain unchanged, even if demand for electric vehicles fluctuates. The introduction of this new model signals Bentley’s commitment to electrification and its ambition to retain a leadership role in the luxury automotive market.
