Bentley Torcal: Das neue Elektromodell ist der günstigste Bentley

Bentley Motors has unveiled its first fully electric vehicle, the Torcal, a luxury SUV equipped with elements made from pure merino wool. The British marque aims to improve its profitability and establish itself in the market for high-end electric vehicles. The Torcal will be available in the United Kingdom starting at £173,000 (approximately €199,000 or $230,000).

It is the most affordable model in Bentley's lineup, targeting younger customers, including first-time Bentley buyers. This move to enter the electric vehicle market has faced criticism from some luxury brands, such as Ferrari, which expressed skepticism after presenting their electric sports car. Other brands, like Jaguar, have also faced backlash for unconventional designs.

Bentley's CEO, Frank-Steffen Walliser, emphasized that the Torcal doesn't represent an "electric design" but a "Bentley." The SUV shares the same technical foundation as the electric Porsche Cayenne and incorporates additional technologies from the Volkswagen Group. Walliser stated that customers generally prefer traditional designs regardless of whether the vehicle is electric or not.

The Torcal is based on the same technical platform as the electric Porsche Cayenne and benefits from other technologies and competencies offered by the Volkswagen Group. With the Torcal, Bentley expands its product range to four model series while testing a more cautious approach to electrification. The marque had previously adjusted its original plan to sell only battery-electric vehicles by 2035, as Volkswagen focuses more on its luxury brands to strengthen the group's profitability.

While the group downsizes production capacities and streamlines operations, Bentley is expected to contribute significantly to the group's earnings. The Torcal will be manufactured in the north of England at Crewe and faces an uncertain market with inconsistent demand for luxury electric vehicles. Rolls-Royce's recent underwhelming sales of its electric Spectre model demonstrate this challenge.

Chinese manufacturers, such as BYD and brands from the Geely Group, are increasingly entering the premium segment. This growth in competition for European manufacturers, who have traditionally dominated the market, prompts Bentley to differentiate itself. Bentley aims to offer a traditional British accent in interior design and premium comfort, setting the Torcal apart from other luxury SUVs.

The company collaborated with Fox Brothers, a British textile manufacturer, to develop the first 100% merino wool fabric for vehicles. Additionally, Bentley offers inlays made of up to 1000 layers of walnut wood remnants and recycled paper, as well as "Wellness Seats" with leg massages, a "Digital Detox" mode, and a "Refresh" setting that increases airflow.

The company also developed optional sounds reminiscent of a V8 engine, inspired by musicians. The Torcal is the centerpiece of a £350 million investment in the Crewe plant, a significant boost for the British automotive industry facing high costs and trade barriers following Brexit. Jaguar Land Rover, Britain's largest automobile manufacturer, recently announced the planned layoffs of 4,000 workers, following the unveiling of its first electric Range Rover model.