Bentley, a name synonymous with luxury and performance, is about to take a bold step into the world of electric vehicles (EVs). The British carmaker has confirmed that it will launch its first all-electric vehicle—a luxury urban SUV—in 2026. This move marks a significant shift as Bentley aims to transition to a fully electric lineup by 2035. Let’s take a closer look at what we can expect from Bentley’s upcoming electric SUV car and how this luxury automaker plans to blend performance, sustainability, and opulence into one stunning vehicle.

As the world moves toward greener solutions, Bentley’s transition to electrification is poised to make a significant impact in the luxury car market. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming Bentley electric SUV car.

The Bentley Electric SUV Car: What We Know So Far

The Bentley electric SUV car, which is set to debut in 2026, will be the brand’s first fully electric model. This move is part of Bentley’s broader strategy to electrify its lineup, with plans to launch a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or battery electric vehicle (BEV) every year until 2035. According to Bentley’s CEO, Frank-Steffen Walliser, 

“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 Features of the Bentley Electric SUV Car

1. Luxury Urban Design:
   • The new Bentley electric SUV car will be marketed as the “world’s first true luxury urban SUV.” With a sleek and compact design, it aims to attract urban buyers looking for both luxury and practicality.
2. Size and Specifications:
   • This upcoming model will be shorter than the Bentayga, with an expected length of less than five meters (approximately 16.4 feet). Its dimensions will make it comparable to compact luxury SUVs, like the Porsche Macan.
3. Innovative Technology:
   • The Bentley electric SUV car will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s PPE platform, which promises advanced features such as an 800-volt architecture. This technology will enable fast charging capabilities, allowing users to recharge from 20% to 80% in about 20 minutes.
4. Sound Experience:
   • Recognizing that sound is a crucial aspect of the driving experience, Bentley plans to incorporate a unique auditory element into its electric SUV. Expect an enriching sound profile that echoes the classic Bentley roar, albeit in a new electric form.
5. Sustainability Goals:
   • Bentley has revised its commitment to fully transition to electric vehicles by 2035. The company plans to release a new plug-in hybrid or battery electric vehicle each year until then, totaling ten new models by 2035.

A Smaller, Sleek Luxury Urban SUV

The upcoming Bentley electric SUV car will be marketed as the “world’s first true luxury urban SUV.” This new model is expected to be smaller than the existing Bentayga, measuring less than five meters in length, Which means it will be designed for city living, with a smaller footprint that makes it easier to maneuver through tight urban environments. The SUV will be built on the same platform as the upcoming Porsche Cayenne EV, which will likely ensure top-notch performance and advanced features.

In terms of size, this new Bentley electric SUV car will be comparable to other compact luxury SUVs like the Porsche Macan. The reduced size makes it an ideal choice for luxury buyers who want a high-performance, environmentally friendly vehicle that fits seamlessly into modern city life.

A New Standard in Electric Performance

Bentley is known for its commitment to performance, and its first electric SUV car will be no exception. While specific performance details are still under wraps, we can expect the electric SUV car to deliver impressive acceleration, handling, and range. Walliser has emphasized that “range and charging speed will be top priorities,” indicating that Bentley is taking significant steps to ensure the EV meets the high expectations of luxury buyers.

The new Bentley electric SUV car will feature an 800-volt electrical architecture, which is designed to support ultra-fast charging. Bentley aims to provide lightning-fast charging speeds, with the ability to go from 20% to 80% charge in around 20 minutes. This level of convenience will be a key selling point for potential customers.

A Unique Sound Experience

For Bentley enthusiasts, the driving experience is about more than just power and speed—it’s about the sensory experience. While many electric vehicles are known for their silent operation, Bentley is adding a unique twist. The company has hinted that the new Bentley electric SUV car will feature its distinct sound, “a strong V8-like soundtrack” to mimic the rich auditory experience that Bentley owners have come to love.

It’s a nod to the idea that a luxury car should engage all the senses, even in the world of electric vehicles. While the vehicle won’t produce the typical pops and bangs found in performance cars like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Bentley’s effort to bring the sound back into the driving experience is a unique feature that will set the brand’s electric cars apart.

A New Era for Bentley: Sustainability Meets Luxury

Bentley’s transition to electric vehicles isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s about maintaining its legacy of luxury and craftsmanship. Walliser has emphasized, “We don’t want to make just any electric car; we want to make a Bentley.” This commitment ensures that, despite the shift to electric, the brand will retain its core values of exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and opulence.

Bentley’s “Beyond100+” strategy outlines a clear path for the future. The company plans to offer only fully electric vehicles by 2035, and it will continue to release new PHEV or BEV models annually until then. This gradual transition allows the brand to adapt to market conditions and customer preferences while still staying true to its luxury roots.

What Can We Expect from the Bentley Electric SUV Car?

Here’s a quick rundown of what we know about Bentley’s first electric SUV car:

• Launch Date: 2026
• Size: Under 5 meters, smaller than the Bentayga
• Performance: Ultra-fast charging, impressive range, and a distinctive sound
• Technology: 800-volt electrical architecture, fast charging capabilities
• Target Market: Urban dwellers and luxury buyers seeking a compact, high-performance electric SUV
• Design: A sleek, luxury urban SUV with advanced technology and craftsmanship

Key Features of the Bentley Electric SUV:

Feature	Details
Size	Under 5 meters long, compact SUV
Charging Speed	20% to 80% charge in 20 minutes
Performance	Fast acceleration, range-focused
Sound Design	Unique, V8-like soundtrack
Platform	Built on the Porsche Cayenne EV platform

Bentley’s Vision for 2035 and Beyond

In the coming decade, Bentley plans to launch at least 10 new electrified models, including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). The Bentley electric SUV car will be the first in this new wave of electrified vehicles, which will reshape the brand’s future.

As Walliser stated, “Beyond100+ becomes our guiding light as we extend our ambitions beyond 2030 while maintaining our aim of a decarbonized future.” This strategy highlights Bentley’s long-term commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint, ensuring that luxury and performance are harmonized with environmental responsibility.

The Road Ahead: Bentley Electric SUV Car Launch Timeline

• 2026: The Bentley electric SUV car will be unveiled to the public.
• 2027: Deliveries will commence, marking the beginning of Bentley’s full transition to electric vehicles.
• 2035: Bentley aims to become a fully electric car manufacturer, with all new vehicles being either BEVs or PHEVs.

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FAQs About the Bentley Electric SUV Car