It is high branding that Bentley is advancing into a new stage of existence with the introduction of the first all-electric vehicle, an SUV that will be rolled out in the world in 2026. It will start its production at the headquarters of the brand in Crewe, UK, in 2027.
The gesture is an indication of a major shift by Bentley, which has been identified with grand tourers and chauffeur cars, to long-distance luxury sedan vehicles.
In entering the market of electric SUVs, Bentley is targeting younger, urban-minded buyers, who nevertheless appreciate exclusivity but do not want to have a vehicle that will be ready in the future.
Design and Positioning
The new EV will exhibit less length than five metres compared to larger models. In spite of its comparatively small dimensions, it is predicted to inherit all the Bentley design dialectics, namely, immortal glamour, perfect design, and high-end raw materials.
This SUV will target urban movement and at the same time, a viable range of movement to intercity, not to mention that it should be practical as well as aspirational.
Platform and Powertrain
The future model will have a platform sharing with Porsche Macan EV and Audi Q6 e-tron, which both are based on the platform. And in the vehicles, we can have dual motors with as much as 630bhp, 95kWh battery pack, and 800 V charging technology which gives it up to 10 to 80 percent charge in only 21 minutes.
Though Bentley has not posted stricter values, CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser hinted at better charging speed, efficiency and performance that would be a first in its category.
Market Strategy and Naming
Bentley has registered the names of Mayon and Barnato as trademarks, one of which is to be used as the production name. The brand will target the fast expanding markets like China where luxury EVs are fast becoming popular first.
Walliser stressed the idea that Bentley is pursuing volume but not profitability and made sure that the SUV sticks to its luxury brand.
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