In a move to lessen its substantial carbon footprint, Bentley is reportedly making strides toward the creation of its own electric vehicle (EV). According to a recent report by Automotive News, the luxury car manufacturer may utilize Volkswagen’s “Premium Platform Electric” architecture for this new EV. This is the same framework that will support the Porsche Taycan and the potential Audi Sport E-tron GT concept. While it’s unclear if the new vehicle will resemble Bentley’s all-electric EXP 12 Speed 6e concept, it is hoped that it will carry a more appealing name.
Although Bentley is not widely recognized as a major pollutant due to its relatively low production volumes, the brand’s lineup primarily consists of heavyweight sedans, coupes, and the gas-guzzling Bentayga SUV, all equipped with large engines. None of these models are particularly fuel-efficient. A plug-in hybrid variant of the Bentayga is set to be introduced in select markets next year, but this does little to position Bentley among the eco-friendliest car manufacturers.
In light of increasing government discussions worldwide regarding EV and hybrid mandates for automakers, Bentley must adapt to remain competitive. If the launch of a Bentley EV materializes, it is anticipated to reach the market by 2025, as mentioned by Bentley CEO Adrian Hallmark in an interview with Reuters.
Leveraging the shared Porsche/Audi platform, expected to debut in 2021, presents an opportunity for Bentley to reduce costs in EV development. The challenge will be ensuring that the Bentley EV is distinctive enough from the Taycan and any other production model Audi develops, to justify its likely premium price tag..
