Once optimistic about electrification, Bentley unveiled the EXP 100 concept in 2019 and promised to go all-electric by the end of the decade. But recently, as global enthusiasm for electric cars waned, the brand has slowed its plans – now targeting 2035 and beyond. In fact, Bentley is even preparing to launch new combustion engine models in the near future.
During a recent virtual press conference, CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser confirmed that the company is developing a new combustion engine vehicle. He emphasized that while electric models – such as the upcoming Urban SUV – are still in the pipeline, traditional petrol engines will continue to play a role for the foreseeable future.
‘We would like to continue to satisfy customers with the choice of powertrains… We will see another ICE Bentley before the end of the year.’
This is consistent with reports from September, when Walliser stated that Bentley would continue to invest in combustion engine vehicles in the coming years. Current models, such as the Continental GT, Flying Spur and Bentayga SUV, will retain their petrol engines, alongside plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and eventually all-electric (BEV) options for certain variants.
Photo by: Bentley
We’ve already seen teasers of the upcoming Continental GT Supersports, possibly the combustion model Walliser is referring to. Rumors suggest that this high-performance version of the Continental GT will ditch its hybrid setup in favor of a pure petrol engine driving only the rear wheels.
We should learn more about Bentley’s future plans in the coming months.
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