The new Bentley electric vehicle (EV) will be produced at the company’s Crewe, England campus where all Bentley models are built. The campus currently houses 4,000 employees.
Bentley Dream Factory, a greenfield investment evolution of the Crewe site that has a digital, zero environmental impact, will produce the model. As part of the revisions, Bentley will install 10,000 new solar panels, making the total on-site 40,000.
The first BEV won’t be the company’s last. Bentley plans to become an EV company within the next eight years.
“Beyond100 is the boldest plan in Bentley’s illustrious history, and in the luxury segment. It’s an ambitious and credible roadmap to carbon neutrality of our total business system, including the shift to 100 per cent BEV in just eight years.
“Our aim is to become the benchmark not just for luxury cars or sustainable credentials but the entire scope of our operations. Securing production of our first BEV in Crewe is a milestone moment for Bentley, and the UK, as we plan for a long-term sustainable future in Crewe.”
The ultra luxury world is growing increasingly competitive. Rolls-Royce recently introduced Spectre, it’s forthcoming all-electric car. Its development timeline is accelerated, with first deliveries of the model promised in 2023.
Rolls-Royce will also move to electrify its complete portfolio, which currently includes Phantom, Wraith, Ghost, Dawn and Cullinan, by 2030.
Bentley is already producing some vehicles that can run on all-electric power. The Bentayga PHEV (plug-in hybrid) is already on sale. A Flying Spur PHEV will go on sale in 2022.
The Beyond 100 strategy is about more than just vehicles and manufacturing. As part of the sustainability strategy, Bentley has teamed up with The Macallan, a 197-year-old single malt Scotch whisky company to create new products and immersive experiences together.
