British luxury automaker Bentley is making significant strides toward penetrating the electric vehicle market in 2026. Reports suggest that its inaugural EV model will feature innovative hands-free driving capability. Brand CEO Adrian Hallmark confirmed this news to British outlet Autocar, sparking anticipation among car and tech enthusiasts alike.
Plan highlights
Autonomous driving
Bentley’s electric car will initially offer “partial” hands-off driving functionality specifically designed for motorway driving and automated parking.
However, the company has ambitious plans to expand and enhance the vehicle’s autonomous driving capabilities in the future, reflecting its commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology.
Bentley’s EV will reportedly incorporate Mobileye’s SuperVision technology to ensure seamless autonomous driving capabilities. This advanced system combines 11 cameras, Mobileye’s EyeQ5 chip, and high-definition maps sourced from crowd data. The integration of these components will enable level three autonomy, allowing drivers to engage in hands-free and eyes-off driving on motorways.
Despite some software development challenges within the Volkswagen Group causing delays for Bentley’s EV, the company is actively addressing these issues.
In an effort to expedite software development, former Bentley manufacturing head Peter Bosch has been appointed as the head of the Cariad software unit.
Bosch’s expertise and leadership are expected to facilitate the final approval of the 1.2 software designed specifically for luxury cars within the VW Group.
Platform
According to the report, the iconic automaker’s maiden EV will utilize the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) developed by the Volkswagen Group.
Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume revealed that the PPE platform would enable the car to generate an impressive power output of up to 690kW, promising exceptional performance and exhilarating driving dynamics.
The PPE platform, which forms the foundation of Bentley’s EV, has already been previewed by Audi with its A6 E-Tron concept. Additionally, Lamborghini is reportedly developing a 2+2 grand tourer utilizing the PPE platform, further emphasizing the versatility and potential of this advanced electric architecture.
Although specific details about the design of Bentley’s electric car remain undisclosed, there are indications that it could take the form of an elegant four-seater GT model. Bentley’s 2019 unveiling of the EXP 100 GT concept showcased a vision of the brand’s future electric offerings.
As for the schedule, the first EV is slated for unveiling in 2025. It aligns with Bentley’s commitment to sustainability and the growing demand for electric mobility solutions.
See Also:
- Lunaz to debut the all-electric Bentley as the world’s “rarest” classic car
- Bentley plans to stop producing the W12 in favor of electrically powered cars
- Bentley’s new EV accelerates 0 to 60 mph in 1.5 seconds
- Rimac successfully delivers the first Nevera hypercar to the US
- Another delay for Subaru Australia’s first electric vehicle
Remarkably, Bentley’s venture into the EV market extends beyond a single vehicle. The luxury brand has outlined a comprehensive plan to launch five new electric cars within a five-year timeframe.
With Bentley’s entry into the electric car market and its commitment to hands-free driving technology, the brand is poised to redefine the luxury EV segment. The forthcoming EV’s combination of opulence, performance, and advanced autonomous capabilities will undoubtedly capture the attention of discerning drivers seeking a seamless blend of luxury and sustainable mobility.
