Bentley To Continue With ICE-Powered Successors Of Models, Diverting From Beyond100 Plan
Under its Beyond100 plan, Bentley aimed to end petrol engines by 2035. Significant changes are now underway for that vision. Volkswagen Group is shaping the future of Bentley’s model lineup with its renewed focus on internal combustion technology.
Porsche
Porsche announced an investment of 3.1 billion euros to extend the ICE models’ lifespans. This involves introducing new Boxster and Cayman generations. It also cancelled plans for its all-electric ‘K1’ flagship.
Audi
Audi scrapped its electric-only strategy in 2023. These group-level changes directly impact Bentley, which shares platforms and drivetrains with its siblings. Bentley must now reevaluate its powertrain mix.
Bentley
CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser confirmed new EVs and hybrids will still launch annually from 2026. The first model will be an urban SUV. However, petrol-powered models will remain important well into the next decade.
Successors to the Bentayga, Continental GT, and Flying Spur will continue offering petrol engines. These were initially expected only as hybrids or EVs. Strong demand from North America and the Middle East backs this decision.
Walliser noted luxury EV demand is weaker than expected. He stressed that Bentley must adapt to customer expectations. “Electrification is still our goal, but we need to take our customers with us,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bentley’s Crewe facility continues its transformation. A new EV assembly line, paint shop, and design centre are being developed. This ensures long-term readiness for electrification.
Outlook
Bentley already pushed its all-electric target from 2030 to 2035. Slowing luxury EV demand forced the change. Volkswagen Group’s ICE investments reinforce this decision for the coming decade.
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