Bentley will be a 100% electric brand by 2030

The luxury car manufacturer Bentley is investing 3 billion euros to ensure the launch of its first electric vehicle in 2025 and its complete transition by 2030.

Renault Mégane E-Tech, electric cars still struggle in the luxury segment. But the category is expected to undergo a dramatic shift, exemplified by Bentley.

Target of 100% Electric

For several years, the Crewe-based company had provided some indications. Its 2017 EXP12 Speed 6E prototype was a statement of intent for an electric future. In November 2020, the brand announced its goal to be 100% electric by 2030 in its ‘Beyond100’ plan.

This has now been confirmed: Bentley will invest 2.5 billion pounds (3 billion euros) to reach this goal. It also plans to be carbon neutral by that date, completely redesigning its British factory. Although the budget is colossal, it reflects the pressure from its owner Volkswagen to reduce CO₂ emissions and become 100% electric as soon as possible.

First Bentley Electric Model in 2025

The brand’s transition will be rapid, taking just 5 years. The first electric model is scheduled for 2025. Bentley has not specified whether it will be a luxury coupe, a limousine, or an SUV. The pace will be intense, with one electric vehicle released annually, totaling five by the end of the decade.

Currently, the lineup mostly features powerful V8 or W12 gasoline models, exceeding 550 horsepower. The only vehicle that has moved beyond hybrid is the Bentayga Hybrid with 450 hp, sold starting at 200,000 euros. It consumes 3.4 l/100 km in WLTP cycle (82 g/km of CO₂) and boasts an electric range of 50 km via a 17.3 kWh battery.

This SUV could account for 20% of sales in 2022, according to the brand. It will then launch the Flying Spur Hybrid sedan later this year (536 hp, 40 km electric range), with every model offering a hybrid option by 2024.

Bentley and Rolls-Royce: An Electric Duel in 2030?

Rolls-Royce, a competing brand owned by BMW, might surpass Bentley. In September last year, it confirmed its first electric vehicle, the Spectre coupe based on the current Wraith gasoline model. Its lineup will also be fully electric by 2030.

Read also: Electric cars have overtaken diesel in Europe