Bentley was once bullish on electric cars, unveiling the EXP 100 concept in 2019 and pledging to go fully electric by the end of the decade. But recently, as global enthusiasm for electric vehicles has waned, the brand has slowed down its plans – which are now targeting 2035 and beyond. In fact, Bentley is preparing to launch new combustion-powered models in the near future.
During a recent virtual press conference, CEO Frank Stefan Walliser confirmed that the company is developing a new combustion vehicle. He stressed that while electric models – such as the upcoming Urban SUV – are still in production, traditional gas engines will continue to play a role for the foreseeable future.
“We would like to continue to please customers with our choice of engines… and we will see another ICE Bentley before the end of the year.”
This is consistent with Reports from Septemberwhen Walliser stated that Bentley would continue to invest in combustion-powered vehicles over the next several years. Existing models – such as the Continental GT, Flying Spur and Bentayga SUV – will retain their petrol engines alongside hybrid (PHEV) and, eventually, all-electric (BEV) options for select variants.
Bentley Continental Supersports teaser
Photo by: Bentley
We’ve already seen teasers for what’s coming Continental GT Supersportswhich may be the combustion model referred to by Walliser. Rumors suggest that this high-performance version of the Continental GT will ditch its hybrid setup in favor of a pure gasoline engine driving only the rear wheels.
We should learn more about Bentley’s future plans in the coming months.
