Bentley confirms all-electric platform for its upcoming luxury urban SUV

Bentley has confirmed that its upcoming debut electric vehicle, the Luxury Urban EV, will use a solely electric powertrain. The company stated the platform will not be adapted for combustion or plug-in hybrid variants. This decision follows Lotus's recent launch of a plug-in hybrid version of its Eletre SUV, which was initially only available as an electric vehicle.

Key Highlights

• Bentley confirms the luxury urban EV will be electric only, with no hybrid or combustion variants.
• The model will debut in the second half of 2026, with deliveries starting in 2027
• SUV will use Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric architecture
• Bentley CEO states retrofitting a combustion engine is not feasible on this platform
• Bentley aims to attract new customers rather than replace existing combustion or hybrid buyers

Bentley’s Electric-Only Strategy

The Luxury Urban EV is scheduled for a formal debut in the second half of 2026. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027. The new model will be an all-electric SUV built on a version of the Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) skateboard architecture. This platform is also used by models like the Porsche Cayenne Electric.

Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser confirmed that the company has no plans to offer an internal combustion engine or plug-in hybrid drivetrain for the Luxury Urban EV. Walliser stated that such variants are not part of Bentley’s strategy. He emphasized that the Bentayga PHEV, which is not available in India, remains the combustion-powered alternative for customers who do not want a fully electric vehicle.

Market Position and Technical Details

The Bentley Luxury Urban EV will compete with models such as the Porsche Cayenne Electric, Lotus Eletre, Range Rover Electric, and an upcoming electric SUV from Rolls-Royce. Unlike Lotus, which introduced a plug-in hybrid Eletre to address changing market demand, Bentley will not offer hybrid or combustion options for its new electric SUV.

Walliser explained that retrofitting a combustion engine is technically not feasible on the Luxury Urban EV’s platform. He also noted that Bentley’s strategy is not to replace existing models. The Bentayga will continue alongside the new electric SUV, allowing customers to choose between combustion, hybrid, or electric options without being forced to switch.

The Bentley Bentayga PHEV features a 3.0-litre turbo V6 hybrid powertrain producing up to 462 HP and 900 Nm of torque. It uses an 18 kWh battery, providing a claimed all-electric range of 45 km. The Luxury Urban EV, meanwhile, could be equipped with a 113 kWh dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, potentially delivering close to or above 1,000 HP of maximum power.

Future Outlook

Bentley’s commitment to an all-electric platform stands out as other automakers scale back or reconsider their electric vehicle plans. The company is targeting new customers with the Luxury Urban EV, rather than requiring existing buyers to transition from combustion or hybrid models. Bentley’s approach reflects a clear focus on expanding its presence in the luxury electric SUV segment.

Also Read: 2026 Bentley Continental GT S And GTC S Revealed With V8 Powertrain Option

Conclusion

Bentley’s confirmation of an all-electric platform for its next luxury urban SUV underlines the brand’s progressive vision for sustainable mobility. By blending timeless British craftsmanship with cutting-edge EV innovation, Bentley is redefining future luxury driving. This move not only strengthens its electrification roadmap but also sets a new benchmark for premium urban electric vehicles worldwide.