Luxury automaker Bentley Motors has pushed back its timeline for going fully electric, announcing it will continue producing gas-powered vehicles until 2035 – five years later than originally planned. The British manufacturer also revealed its first electric vehicle will be an “urban SUV” coming in 2026, according to information shared by the company on Thursday, reports The Guardian.

Market Conditions Drive Timeline Adjustment

This strategic shift makes Bentley the latest in a line of manufacturers, including Toyota, Volvo, and Ford, to revise their electrification timelines as EV sales growth slows in certain markets. Despite their ultra-luxury positioning, with vehicles starting at approximately $215,000, Bentley cites concerns about charging infrastructure outside major markets like Europe, China, and the US.

First EV Details Emerge

The upcoming electric SUV will be smaller than Bentley’s current Bentayga SUV and will be manufactured at their Crewe, Cheshire facility, which employs 4,000 people. “We need to adapt to today’s economic, market and legislative environment to initiate a major transformative phase for tomorrow,” says Frank-Steffen Walliser, Bentley’s CEO since July.

Hybrid Bridge Strategy

The company had previously announced plans to continue producing plug-in hybrid vehicles beyond 2030, combining traditional gasoline engines with smaller rechargeable batteries. This decision was made under former CEO Adrian Hallmark, who has since moved to Aston Martin.

Production Considerations

While Bentley maintains its commitment to “a decarbonized future,” the company will likely face challenges with battery sourcing, as they may need to rely on imported batteries due to limited British battery manufacturing capacity.

EVXL’s Take

Looking at the bigger picture, Bentley’s decision reflects a broader industry trend of luxury automakers carefully balancing their transition to EVs. Their approach aligns with what we’ve seen in the Mercedes-Benz segment, where manufacturers are taking measured steps to ensure their ultra-luxury clientele’s needs are met while moving toward electrification. The focus on an urban SUV as their first EV shows they’re targeting a growing market segment while maintaining their luxury positioning.

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