Bentley is investing big to become a full-EV brand by the end of the decade.
Now Bentley has confirmed it will launch five EVs in five years starting with that first EV in late 2025. The four subsequent EVs will then be launched on an annual basis, and each will be completely new. Bentley calls the move to electric propulsion the biggest transformation in the company's history.
It's part of an investment worth 2.5 billion British pounds that will also see Bentley's plant in Crewe, U.K., upgraded to handle production of EVs, while also incorporating digital and flexible manufacturing technologies.The upgrades will also help the plant become even more environmentally friendly. According to Bentley, the plant is already carbon-neutral thanks in part to extensive solar arrays lining the roof.
Bentley also plans to work with its suppliers and dealer network in an attempt to reduce emissions. The automaker has set itself a goal to be carbon-neutral across its entire operations by 2030. As for what the EV model will be, Bentley said the current cars will run out their life cycles then switch to EV versions. Therefore, the new lineup will include EV versions of the Bentayga SUV, Flying Spur sedan, Continental GT coupe, and Continental GT convertible, plus, perhaps, one other vehicle. The vehicles will be developed in the U.K. and built at the Crewe plant.