Bentley tests wealthy buyers' interest in going electric with first EV

Bentley is exploring the potential of electric vehicles (EVs) with its first EV, the Torcal SUV. This decision comes just months after Ferrari unveiled their own EV, which faced criticism for deviating from the brand's traditional design. However, Bentley's Torcal aims to strike a balance between zero-emission motoring and preserving its iconic British luxury car design.

Like classic Bentley models, the Torcal features styling cues such as diamond-shaped lights, which are reminiscent of the car's front grille, even though EVs don't require them for engine cooling.

To maintain the essence of a Bentley, the Torcal recreates the feel of a V8 engine through a soundtrack inspired by orchestral timpani, complemented by smaller drums that intensify as the vehicle accelerates. Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser expressed the company's belief that customers are not demanding a completely different car just because it's electric.

Currently, aside from Ferrari and Rolls-Royce (owned by BMW), Bentley is the only major ultra-luxury carmaker selling an EV. Other competitors like Lamborghini and McLaren have either delayed their EV launches or haven't announced any plans, citing limited customer demand.